Romelu Lukaku delivered a stellar performance with a goal and two assists as Napoli cruised to a 3-0 victory over struggling Empoli, keeping the pressure on Serie A leaders Inter Milan. The Belgium striker, who has been pivotal in Napoli’s title challenge, scored his 12th goal of the season while also assisting Scott McTominay, who netted twice in the match, taking his tally to eight goals in his debut Serie A campaign. Lukaku, who joined Napoli last summer to replace the departing Victor Osimhen, has been instrumental in both scoring and creating opportunities. His impact was evident on Monday as he played a key role in each of Napoli's goals. McTominay opened the scoring in the 18th minute, firing home from just outside the box after Lukaku's superb hold-up play and a well-timed assist. Despite their struggles this season, Empoli remained dangerous, but Lukaku doubled Napoli's lead in the 56th minute with a powerful strike from Mathias Olivera's pass. Just five minutes later, Lukaku turned provider again, delivering a perfect cross for McTominay to head home and complete his brace. McTominay almost completed his hat-trick in the 66th minute when Lukaku again set him up, but his low shot struck the post after a one-on-one with Empoli goalkeeper Devis Vasquez. With this win, Napoli maintain their three-point gap behind leaders Inter Milan, who will face Bayern Munich in the second leg of their Champions League quarter-final, followed by tough fixtures against Bologna and AC Milan. Meanwhile, Napoli's focus remains solely on securing their second Serie A title in three seasons, with just one challenging opponent, Torino, left to face from the top half of the table.

Australia A Overcome England A in Thrilling Finish to Secure 25-Run Victory Australia A 343 (109.4 overs) & 353-6 dec (93 overs): Knott 123; Villiers 3-97 England A 407 (127.5 overs) & 264 (62.2 overs): Armitage 75; Cheatle 2-30 Australia A won by 25 runs England A's hopes of victory evaporated as they suffered a dramatic collapse, losing by 25 runs with just four balls remaining in their four-day match against Australia A in Sydney. Chasing 289 for victory, England A were well-positioned at 181-2 and later 252-5. However, a devastating final-hour collapse saw them lose their last five wickets for just 12 runs, ultimately being dismissed for 264. Hollie Armitage top-scored with 75, Alice Capsey contributed 55, and Paige Scholfield's rapid 39 off 24 balls seemed to have England on track for a successful chase. But Scholfield's dismissal sparked the dramatic collapse, leaving England needing just 37 more runs. In the penultimate over, Georgia Davis and Issy Wong, who had been fighting to hold on for the draw, were undone by a mix-up. Wong was run out for 9 off 21 balls, and two balls later, Davis was bowled by Charli Knott, handing Australia A the victory. Earlier, Knott had been the anchor of Australia's second innings, scoring 123 runs to extend Australia's lead to 115 at the start of the final day. She declared on 353-6 after lunch, leaving England with 63 overs to chase the target. England had earlier taken a 64-run first-innings lead, thanks to impressive centuries from Capsey (108) and Scholfield (164), contributing to their total of 407. However, Knott's century, along with valuable half-centuries from Rachel Trenaman and Nicole Faltum, helped Australia A recover from 110-3. Their efforts, coupled with an all-round strong bowling performance, made the chase increasingly difficult for England. The final day's bowling saw Lauren Cheatle, Tess Flintoff, Lilly Mills, and Knott each taking two wickets, providing Australia A with the necessary breakthroughs. England had claimed the rain-affected T20 series 1-0, while Australia had won the preceding one-day international series 2-1.

Luka Modric Becomes Investor and Co-Owner of Championship Club Swansea Real Madrid and Croatia midfielder Luka Modric has joined Swansea City as both an investor and co-owner, the Championship club confirmed on Monday. The 39-year-old Croatian, widely regarded as one of the best midfielders of his generation, brings a wealth of experience to Swansea. Over the past 13 seasons with Real Madrid, Modric has won numerous accolades, including six UEFA Champions League titles. He also enjoyed a successful stint at Tottenham Hotspur before making the move to Madrid. Swansea, who currently play in the second tier of English football, did not disclose the exact amount of investment from Modric, but the player expressed his enthusiasm about contributing to the club's development. He shared his excitement in a statement on the club’s website, saying, "This is an exciting opportunity. Swansea has a strong identity, an incredible fanbase, and the ambition to compete at the highest level. I believe I can provide my experience to the club, having played at the top of the game for many years." Modric's goal is to play an active role in supporting the growth of the club, helping to create a promising future for Swansea. "My aim is to support the club's growth in a positive way and help build an exciting future for all involved," he added. While Modric’s focus is still on his current commitments with Real Madrid—particularly the upcoming Champions League quarter-final second leg against Arsenal, where they face a 3-0 deficit—he is already looking forward to his new venture with Swansea. His contract with the Spanish giants is set to expire at the end of this season. The Croatian’s decision to invest in a football club follows in the footsteps of his fellow players. Paris Saint-Germain’s Kylian Mbappé and Real Madrid’s Vinicius Junior have also taken on similar roles, with Mbappé investing in Ligue 2 side Caen and Vinicius Junior becoming a co-owner of Portuguese club FC Alverca. Swansea's chief executive, Tom Gorringe, expressed his excitement about Modric’s involvement, praising the veteran as an ideal role model for the club’s players. "I am excited that Luka has come on board as an investor and co-owner," Gorringe said. "There is no better role model in the game for our players, from the academy right through to the first team." Swansea City currently sits 12th in the Championship, and the club will be hoping Modric’s involvement can help propel them back toward the Premier League in the future.

Arjan Veurink to Take Over as Netherlands Women's Head Coach After UEFA Euros 2023 England Women’s assistant coach Arjan Veurink will leave his current position after the 2023 UEFA Women’s European Championship to become the new head coach of the Netherlands Women’s national team, the Football Association (FA) announced on Tuesday. Veurink, 38, will succeed Andries Jonker, who has been in charge of the Netherlands Women's team since 2022. The Dutchman returns to his roots, having previously served as an assistant coach for the Netherlands from 2017 to 2021. His success with the Dutch national team during that time, including winning the 2017 UEFA Women’s Euro alongside Sarina Wiegman, set the stage for his return. Following his tenure with the Netherlands, Veurink joined England in 2021 as part of Wiegman’s staff. Together, they have led the Lionesses to extraordinary achievements. Veurink played an instrumental role in England’s victorious 2022 UEFA Women’s Euro campaign, where they triumphed on home soil, and the team’s subsequent victory in the inaugural Women’s Finalissima in 2023. He also contributed to England’s runners-up finish at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Australia and New Zealand, further solidifying his reputation as a top-tier coach. The FA acknowledged Veurink’s important contributions to the England team, emphasizing his ongoing commitment to the squad. “Veurink continues to be a highly valued and respected member of Sarina Wiegman’s team, and his complete focus remains on the current UEFA Women’s Nations League campaign and the summer’s European Championship in Switzerland,” the FA statement read. The UEFA Women’s Euro 2023 is scheduled to take place in Switzerland from July 2 to July 27. England, the defending champions, will open their tournament against France on July 5. Veurink, as part of Wiegman’s staff, will continue to assist the team throughout the tournament, which will be his final major competition with England before transitioning to his new role with the Netherlands. Veurink’s move marks the next step in his impressive coaching career. His return to the Netherlands signals his deep connection with the national program, and he is expected to continue the country’s strong tradition in women’s football. As a coach who has already proven his worth with both the Netherlands and England, his leadership will be closely watched as he takes charge of the Dutch squad in the future. While Veurink’s time with England comes to an end, his legacy as part of one of the most successful periods in the Lionesses’ history remains firmly intact. His imminent departure is a testament to his accomplishments in the world of women’s football, where his journey is far from over.

Christian Chukwu, the legendary former captain and coach of Nigeria’s national football team, passed away on Saturday at the age of 74 in the southeastern city of Enugu. Widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in Nigerian football history, Chukwu’s contributions to the sport span decades—both on the pitch and from the sidelines. Known affectionately as “Chairman” for his commanding presence as a central defender, Chukwu captained the Super Eagles to their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) title in 1980. His leadership and performances throughout the tournament earned him the accolade of *Player of the Tournament*, cementing his status as a national hero. Following a distinguished playing career, Chukwu transitioned into coaching and continued to shape Nigerian football at the highest level. He led the Super Eagles to a third-place finish at the 2004 AFCON in Tunisia, showcasing his tactical acumen and ability to inspire a new generation of players. His coaching career also extended beyond Nigeria, as he took charge of Kenya’s national team during a pivotal period in their development. Tributes have poured in from across the footballing world, with many paying homage to Chukwu's enduring legacy. “We have lost a good and great man,” said Dr. Mohammed Sanusi, General Secretary of the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). “Chukwu was the definition of a strong, dedicated, and disciplined leader—both on and off the field. He was not nicknamed ‘Chairman’ for nothing. He embodied strength, vision, and consistency. His influence on Nigerian football is immeasurable.” Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu also issued a heartfelt tribute, describing Chukwu as “more than a footballer.” “Christian Chukwu's legacy goes beyond the medals and trophies,” the President said in a statement through his media adviser. “He was a symbol of resilience and pride for Nigeria. His life’s work—both as a player and as a coach—continues to inspire. The trophies he lifted, the countless lives he touched, and the unforgettable moments he created on the field and in the technical area will ensure his memory lives on.” Chukwu's impact on the game in Nigeria is woven into the fabric of the country’s football history. From his days as a standout defender for Enugu Rangers to his leadership roles at the national level, he remained a figure of respect and admiration. He was not only a tactician and leader but also a mentor to many aspiring footballers and coaches across Africa. He leaves behind a legacy of excellence, integrity, and national pride that will forever resonate with fans, colleagues, and players alike. Christian Chukwu is survived by his family, friends, and countless admirers who will continue to celebrate the life and achievements of a man who gave everything to the beautiful game.

Rory McIlroy’s Masters Glory: What the Career Grand Slam Winner Takes Home Rory McIlroy etched his name into golfing history on Sunday, becoming just the sixth player ever to complete the career Grand Slam with a dramatic playoff victory at Augusta National. But beyond the prestige of joining golf’s most elite club, McIlroy's Masters triumph comes with several unique rewards. The Coveted Green Jacket Moments after clinching the win, McIlroy quipped, "I've got to go and get a Green Jacket." The symbolic blazer, awarded to every Masters champion, is one of the most iconic garments in sports. The tradition dates back to 1949, and while McIlroy can wear it wherever he pleases over the next year, it must be returned to Augusta thereafter, where it will remain on club grounds permanently. Along with the jacket, McIlroy also receives a gold medal and a silver replica of the Augusta National clubhouse – long-standing symbols of Masters glory. Record Prize Money The 2025 Masters boasted a record $21 million prize pool, and McIlroy’s winner’s share totaled a staggering $4.2 million (£3.2 million). While the world number two is no stranger to success, the payout marks a lucrative addition to his already impressive career earnings. His longtime caddie and childhood friend Harry Diamond also stands to pocket a tidy 10% cut. A Seat at the Champions’ Table One of Augusta's most exclusive traditions is the annual Champions Dinner, an invite-only affair where former winners gather each Tuesday during Masters week. As the newest member of the Green Jacket club, McIlroy will be responsible for next year's menu – a moment many champions consider a personal highlight. Augusta Membership Perks With victory comes lifelong privileges at Augusta National, including membership and access to facilities typically reserved for the game's greatest. McIlroy now gains access to the champions’ locker room, designated parking spaces, and even a dedicated practice area during Masters week. A Lifetime Invitation Winning the Masters also guarantees McIlroy a place in the field for life. Unlike other majors that limit exemptions for past champions, Augusta welcomes its winners back indefinitely. Legends like Fred Couples and Bernhard Langer, both in their 60s, were in this year’s field — and McIlroy intends to follow suit. “They’ll have to wheel me out of here at 90,” McIlroy joked, underscoring the emotional weight of finally capturing the title that had eluded him for over a decade. In every sense, McIlroy’s victory at Augusta isn’t just a career milestone — it’s an entry into golf immortality.

Doue Rising: PSG’s Teen Sensation Lighting Up Europe When Désiré Doué trudged off the pitch after 64 quiet minutes against Arsenal in October, the teenager once hailed as France’s next big thing looked lost in the lights. Fast forward six months, and he’s the talk of Europe, with a Champions League semi-final rematch against the Gunners now very much on the cards. For a player whose name literally means "gifted desire," the 19-year-old is now delivering on the hype—and then some. That early disappointment came in a 2-0 loss at the Emirates during the new Champions League league-phase format. Since then, Doué has exploded into life. A dazzling performance against Manchester City in January, a nerveless penalty to knock Liverpool out at Anfield, and a sensational curler in the quarter-final first leg against Aston Villa—this isn’t just a comeback. It’s a breakout. On Wednesday at Villa Park, all eyes will be on Doué, one of the poster boys for PSG’s "post-Galácticos" era. The Parisians have traded the bling of Neymar, Messi, and Mbappé for a youth-driven, team-first philosophy—and Doué is leading the charge. His rise has been nothing short of meteoric. Just last season, he wasn’t even a regular starter at Rennes. Then came the £43 million summer switch to PSG, a move initially questioned by critics. But Paris believed in him. Bayern Munich were in the running too, but Doué only had eyes for PSG—and Luis Enrique had eyes for him. “He’s got the lower body of a rugby player and the vision of a maestro,” says French football expert Julien Laurens. “PSG knew they had something special. They were willing to wait. And it’s paying off.” Doué’s roots are steeped in football. His brother, Guéla, plays for Strasbourg, while cousin Yann Gboho stars at Toulouse. Their father, Maho, trained them religiously—on and off the pitch—fostering the discipline that now defines Désiré’s game. At Rennes, he was praised for his work ethic. At PSG, insiders rave about his professionalism. His Champions League tally—three goals, two assists in just five starts—is a testament to his impact. But it’s not just about numbers. It’s the fearlessness, the flair, and the maturity that have fans and coaches raving. Luis Enrique has managed Doué carefully, easing him in while offering one-on-one guidance. The result? A player who’s grown rapidly, both tactically and mentally. “After the Arsenal game, his family admitted he wasn’t ready yet,” Laurens says. “They knew he had work to do. They didn’t sugarcoat it. That honesty is rare—and refreshing.” He now lives in Boulogne-Billancourt, adjusting to life in the Paris spotlight. Still, he keeps a low profile, guided by a grounded support system and a growing sense of purpose. France coach Didier Deschamps has taken notice, handing Doué his senior debut in March. He scored a pressure penalty against Croatia, immediately proving he belongs on the biggest stage. At one point, Mathys Tel was seen as the crown jewel of France’s 2005 generation. Now? The spotlight has shifted. Villa Park awaits. And while there’s still a journey ahead, one thing is certain: Désiré Doué has arrived.

Concacaf President Victor Montagliani has voiced strong opposition to a proposal from Conmebol to expand the 2030 FIFA World Cup to 64 teams, warning that such a move would negatively impact the global football landscape. The plan, proposed by the South American football confederation, has also faced criticism from UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin and Asian Football Confederation (AFC) President Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al-Khalifa. The proposed expansion aims to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the tournament, which began in Uruguay in 1930. Speaking to ESPN, Montagliani said: *"I don't believe expanding the men's World Cup to 64 teams is the right move for the tournament itself or the broader football ecosystem — including national teams, club competitions, leagues, and players. We haven’t even kicked off the new 48-team World Cup yet, so personally, I don’t think that expanding to 64 teams should even be on the table."* The 2026 edition of the tournament — jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada — will be the first to feature the expanded 48-team format, up from the 32-team structure used since 1998. The 2030 World Cup is set to be hosted by Spain, Portugal, and Morocco, with the opening matches taking place in Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay to mark the centennial of the competition. If Conmebol's proposal is approved, the number of matches would double to 128, significantly increasing the tournament's scale and complexity. Critics argue that such a rapid expansion could overload the football calendar and strain existing infrastructures. AFC President Sheikh Salman warned of the risks of opening the door to further increases: *"If the issue remains open to change, then the door will not only be open to expanding the tournament to 64 teams. Someone might come along and demand raising the number to 132 teams. Where would we end up then? It would become chaos."* UEFA’s Aleksander Ceferin previously dismissed the idea as a "bad move," aligning with Concacaf and the AFC in opposition. The proposal may be discussed during FIFA’s upcoming 75th Congress, scheduled for 15 May in Paraguay. However, any decision to expand the World Cup further would require broad international support and a formal vote among FIFA’s member associations.

Kevin Campbell, affectionately known as "Super Kev," was the all-action, hard-working centre-forward who captivated football fans throughout his 19-year career at the top level. His dynamic play, coupled with a winning smile and jubilant celebrations, earned him adoration from fans at Arsenal, Nottingham Forest, and Everton. Widely regarded as one of the most difficult forwards to defend against, Campbell’s personality and positive energy made him a beloved figure in English football. "Anyone who was ever in Kevin's presence will always remember what a good person he was," said his son, Tyrese, a striker for Sheffield United. "He lit up every room he entered. He was a joyful, respectful, and positive person—a true angel sent from heaven." In 2024, tragedy struck when Campbell's life was cut short due to a serious illness. His condition led to an investigation regarding the care he received during his final months. This is a tribute to Campbell’s life, loss, and legacy, told through the words of those who knew him best. Brixton, South London (1970-80s) Kevin Campbell was born in Brixton, South London, in 1970 as the second youngest of seven children in a Jamaican family. Raised by a single mother, resources were scarce, but Campbell's passion for sport shone through. "We couldn’t afford tennis courts, so we played against a back wall," said his younger sister, Lorna. "Kevin would take on anyone, even our older brothers. That’s where he first came alive." Highbury, North London (1985-95) Campbell’s talent caught the eye of several London clubs, and he joined Arsenal’s youth system at 16. "When Kevin came to train with the first team, you could see he was something special. He was huge, powerful, and naturally gifted," recalls former Arsenal midfielder Paul Davis. "Even the senior internationals feared him in training. He was a force." After making his debut in 1988, Campbell went on to win two league titles, an FA Cup, a League Cup, and the European Cup Winners' Cup with Arsenal. His energy and infectious personality made him a fan favourite. Andy Cole, who played with Campbell during their youth days at Arsenal, described him as "unbelievably strong, quick, and always working hard for the team." Later Career (1995-2007) After leaving Arsenal in 1995, Campbell enjoyed stints at Nottingham Forest and Trabzonspor in Turkey, before moving to Everton, where he became the club's first black captain. At Everton, Campbell played a pivotal role in helping the club avoid relegation, scoring crucial goals and mentoring a young Wayne Rooney. "He was an inspiration to me," said Rooney. "He helped me on and off the field. His influence was huge." Campbell later played for West Bromwich Albion and Cardiff City before retiring in 2007. He transitioned into a career in punditry and broadcasting, also founding his own record label, 2 Wikid. Illness and Tragic Death (2024) In early 2024, Campbell began feeling unwell. His symptoms were vague—tiredness, weight loss, and a decreased appetite. Despite multiple stays in hospital, doctors could not initially diagnose his condition. By March 2024, Campbell’s health worsened, and it was eventually revealed that he was suffering from infective endocarditis, a rare heart infection. Unfortunately, by the time it was diagnosed, the infection had already caused significant damage, leading to organ failure and his untimely death on 15 June 2024. His son Tyrese said, "We knew it was coming, but it didn’t make it any easier. We were relieved that he wasn’t in pain anymore. He deserved to rest." The Investigation The circumstances surrounding Campbell’s illness led to an investigation by Manchester NHS Foundation Trust into his care. The inquest found that missed opportunities to diagnose the condition may have contributed to his death, though it concluded that Campbell's death was likely unavoidable given the progression of the illness. For Campbell’s friends, including former teammates such as Cole, the loss was profound. "Losing Kevin was a massive blow to everyone in football, but especially for those of us who knew him personally," said Cole. "He was a remarkable man who lived life to the fullest." Legacy and the Kevin Campbell Foundation Despite the pain of his loss, Campbell’s legacy endures through the Kevin Campbell Foundation, set up by his family to support young people in need. "The foundation is an extension of Kevin’s spirit," said Lorna. "It celebrates his achievements as a footballer and as a person." In addition to his role as a father and mentor, Campbell was also known for his charitable work. "He always put others before himself," said Cole. "Now, we carry on his work, continuing to help those who need it most." Though Campbell is gone, the impact he had on football and the lives of those who knew him remains unforgettable. As Cole poignantly put it, "Kevin had a good time, and he made sure everyone around him did too."

Antoine Semenyo's goal after just 53 seconds was enough for Bournemouth to secure a crucial 1-0 win over Fulham at Vitality Stadium, marking their first Premier League victory in nearly two months. The Cherries made a lightning-fast start, with Semenyo seizing possession from Antonee Robinson and coolly bending the ball past Fulham goalkeeper Bernd Leno. It was a dream start for Andoni Iraola's side, who had been struggling in recent weeks, with no wins in their previous six league matches. Fulham, despite having the majority of possession, could not convert their chances. Evanilson should have doubled Bournemouth's lead just 15 minutes later, but the Brazilian hit the crossbar after getting on the end of Alex Scott’s cutback. Fulham looked for a response, with Rodrigo Muniz, Ryan Sessegnon, and Joachim Andersen all failing to capitalise on decent opportunities before halftime. Muniz had a chance to level the score when he pounced on a miscommunication between Bournemouth centre-backs Marcos Senesi and Dean Huijsen but fired wide. In the second half, Fulham pressed harder for the equaliser, carving out a few chances from distance. However, Kepa Arrizabalaga, who had been a target of criticism earlier in the season, came to Bournemouth's rescue with two excellent saves to deny Alex Iwobi and Sasa Lukic. Bournemouth had a strong claim for a penalty in the 80th minute when Leno appeared to bring down Evanilson, but referee Michael Oliver ruled that the goalkeeper had touched the ball first. The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) upheld the decision, much to the frustration of the visitors. The win was Bournemouth's first since February 15 and moved them level on points with Fulham. However, due to a better goal difference, the Cherries leapfrogged their opponents into eighth place. Both teams remain firmly in the hunt for European football next season, with Chelsea and Aston Villa, in sixth and seventh, respectively, six points ahead with just six games remaining. The race for European spots is expected to be tight, with the eighth-placed team potentially qualifying for the Europa Conference League, provided the League Cup winners, Newcastle, and the FA Cup champions finish in the top seven. Bournemouth Back in European Contention Bournemouth had endured a dip in form after an impressive start to the season, with a noticeable loss of momentum in recent months. The club had gone winless in their last six Premier League matches, and their hopes of silverware were dashed when they were eliminated from the FA Cup by Manchester City. Despite scoring the first goal in three of their previous four games and failing to secure a victory, Bournemouth's early goal this time proved decisive. The team held firm despite only having 31% possession after halftime and facing waves of Fulham pressure. They held on thanks to some crucial saves from Arrizabalaga, including a stunning diving stop to deny Iwobi’s curling shot. Bournemouth's defence, led by the resolute Huijsen, withstood Fulham's late pressure. The 20-year-old, celebrating his birthday, delivered a crucial challenge to thwart Raul Jimenez in the dying minutes, ensuring the Cherries held onto their slim lead. With tough fixtures against Arsenal, Aston Villa, and Manchester City looming, these three points were vital for Bournemouth's European aspirations, keeping them within striking distance of a potential qualification spot. Fulham’s European Hopes Hit by Missed Opportunities Fulham’s disappointment was evident after the defeat, particularly given their recent form, including a memorable victory over Premier League leaders Liverpool. However, Marco Silva's side were caught cold by Semenyo’s early strike and failed to capitalise on the few chances they had to get back into the game. Sessegnon and Andersen missed headed opportunities, with both efforts comfortably saved by Arrizabalaga, while Muniz was guilty of squandering a golden chance after he intercepted a miscommunication between Senesi and Huijsen, only to shoot wide. Fulham also felt aggrieved after the referee handed only a yellow card to Senesi for a studs-up challenge on Andersen just before the break. A VAR review upheld the on-field decision, frustrating the visitors further. Despite a more dominant second-half performance, Fulham’s efforts were largely restricted to long-range shots, none of which troubled Arrizabalaga. Leno also kept Fulham in the game with key saves, denying Scott and Tyler Adams at important moments. With tough fixtures ahead and a congested race for European places, Fulham will need to find a clinical edge in their remaining matches to keep their European ambitions alive.