Category News

Rasmus Hojlund sought out UK journalists in Chicago after the match to formally state his intention to stay with Manchester United in their second Premier League Summer Series game last month, which was notable.

Hojlund was unaware of this at the time, but it could turn out to be his last start for United.

Hojlund played for 18 minutes in the final tour game against Everton with a $74 million move from RB Leipzig frontman Benjamin Sesko pending.

He hasn’t played in either of United’s two Premier League games since then and was an unused substitute against Fiorentina at Old Trafford.

This week, it is anticipated that Serie A champions Napoli will redouble their efforts to find a breakthrough that would allow Hojlund to fill the position left by Romelu Lukaku, who is expected to miss four months with a thigh injury.

What United manager Ruben Amorim was unaware of as he addressed him following the Bournemouth game was how difficult it would be for them to score goals in open play.

United’s only goal of the season is an own goal, scored by Rodrigo Muniz, with a 1-1 draw with Fulham at Craven Cottage following an opening 1-0 defeat by Arsenal.

Since that game against Everton, they have scored four goals, a penalty, two own goals, and one effort from open play.

United may be disappointed that they can’t leave Fulham on Sunday with the most points, but Bruno Fernandes’ second penalty, which was fired high over the bar, is the main culprit.

Their best chances came in the second half, not more, according to Fulham manager Marco Silva, who pointedly observed, “at the end, nothing more.”

United’s position should be mitigated in some ways.

Sesko and his new team-mates, who are also learning a new playstyle, have two weeks’ worth of training sessions.

The 22-year-old started 37 minutes at Craven Cottage from the bench in his opening game against Arsenal, adding that Amorim noted that the United were “not in their best moment.”

The Portuguese claim that they started playing instead of defending a lead.

Even though he was moving at full speed and the ball was dropping over his shoulder, Cunha almost had a sensational first-half goal when he controlled Altay Bayindir’s magnificent left-footed touch to keep his balance and make his own effort on goal with his right foot, which Bernd Leno did very well to keep out.

It seems like a matter of time before the Brazilian, who was set up by Mason Mount, actually finds the net because of how stunningly eye-catching his United career has been.

Mbeumo and his teammates worked hard, and their goal in the dying stages of the game would have been impacted by the exceptional pace of USA international Antonee Robinson.

United’s attack, however, currently feels more like a group of talented players trying to be more of a unit.

As you would expect, Amorim rejects the notion that a scoring issue, which caused United to net just 44 league goals last season, which was their worst since the 1973-1974 relegation campaign, has not been resolved. Since last season, the transfer money has been concentrating on the attack.

He said, “I forget the last season.” We were more concerned with keeping the outcome, as I previously stated.

Because we are making so many chances, we will score goals. That is crucial.

Amorim has frequently discussed the advantages of a season-long European campaign without one.

The EFL Cup will be the only midweek fixture if United advance during the three-week break between the two upcoming international breaks.

However, there is no such thing as a “time stutter.”

As Sesko gets acquainted with the Premier League and Cunha and Mbeumo get used to him and each other, United must find a way to win games.

After finishing last season 15th, they are currently 16th after two games, and Burnley, who has just been promoted, will visit them on Saturday.

If United had scored the opener through Bruno Fernandes, the inquest would not have been as serious.

Fernandes skied the task instead.

The United man ended up on the ground as a corner came in as VAR Darren England intervened to stop a Calvin Bassey challenge on Mason Mount that had become contentious.

Marco Silva, the manager of Fulham, claimed Leny Yoro had a foul in the build-up to the visitors’ goal and that it ought not to have been awarded.

When Kavanagh accidentally tapped into his shoulder, forcing the United skipper to go through his routine again, Fernandes had placed the ball on the spot and was striding backwards as part of his routine.

Gary Neville and Ashley Young, former United players, said on Sky Sports that the incident would have stifled Fernandes’ concentration.

Fernandes later said, “I was upset. You have your own routine and tasks to perform as a penalty taker.

“The referee didn’t apologize, so I was upset.” That is what gave me that moment of a pull.

Women’s Rugby World Cup – Pool D

South Africa (26) 66

Tries: Roos, Hele 3, Malinga 2, Janse van Rensburg 2, Ngwevu, Makua Cons: Dolf 8

Brazil (3) 6

“We are here to show Brazil have more than just soccer.”

Fly-half Raquel Kochhann may not have achieved her initial dream of playing football for her country, but she did get the chance to show her kicking skills on the world stage.

Brazil were 12-0 down to South Africa on their Women’s Rugby World Cup debut when a penalty was awarded.

From just outside the 22, and at a slight angle, it was that awkward kick that you should get, but it was far from a gimme.

It was never in doubt and Kochhann’s historic strike sailed through with ease, as did a penalty in the second half.

Those were the only scores registered by Brazil as they fell to a heavy opening 66-6 defeat, but afterwards the players stressed the significance of becoming the first South American team to make the Women’s World Cup.

“We are so excited to be here to show the world Brazilian rugby,” said Kochhann.

“I am really sure we are inspiring young girls and players in Brazil to see a future by seeing us play at the highest level possible.”

Brazil’s World Cup debut was much anticipated because of their sevens flair, but it was their toughness and bravery in defence that stood out.

A large portion of the squad come from tough favelas, and have had to fight harder than most to reach the global stage.

Kochhann, who won her seventh XVs cap in Northampton, is a sevens specialist and has been to three Olympic Games, overcoming breast cancer to feature in Paris last year.

The lowest-ranked team at the tournament in 25th, Brazil had only played 16 Tests of XV-a-side rugby prior to the tournament. They only celebrated their first win in 2023 over Portugal.

Even when the Brazil national anthem ended in Northampton, the players continued to sing full of emotion.

“We screamed to everyone that we are warriors and are ready,” Kochhann added.

“It is really important that we had a load of Brazilians here and those supporting us in Brazil. This energy is important to show people are looking out and caring about us.

“It shows rugby matters, I love this energy. I am super excited to see how our team grows.

Bianca Silva’s excellent early try-saving tackle on Ayanda Malinga typified that warrior mindset – one of 168 tackles her team made in the game.

Springbok number eight Aseza Hele bagged a hat-trick and was one player Brazil could simply not stop because of her brutal power.

The Brazil supporters remained loud throughout the game, bringing a positive and fun attitude even in defeat.

Nadia is from one of the smallest states in Brazil and relocated to England three years ago.

“It doesn’t matter which part of Brazil you are from, and it is huge, but it feels like one, there was no way I couldn’t be here as I had to support the team,” she told BBC Sport.

“Brazil qualifying for the World Cup has been huge for the country to show how much you can do. This can get more funding, support and people playing.”

Fabiano, who was a number eight in his youth, travelled all the way from Sao Paulo for the game with his son Fergus and daughter Bella.

Brazil’s women’s sevens team have qualified for the past three Olympics and finished ninth in the recent World Series.

“Since the Rio Olympics the sport has grown. We liked that it was fast,” he told BBC Sport.

“I heard the women’s team warmed up with music and samba while training. It brings happiness to the game, that’s why we like it.

“Brazil has the potential to really like XVs, it is a team game like football. We like ball!”

Brazil now face France, who defeated Italy in their opening game, in Exeter next Saturday.

Les Bleues, ranked fourth in the world, are contenders to win the tournament and will be a big step up in competition.

South Africa: Dolf; Dolf, Mpupha, Ngwevu, Malinga; Van Rensburg, Roos; Charlie, Gwala, Latsha, Booi (capt), Lochner, Solontsi, Mcatshulwa, Hele.

Replacements: Gunter, Ngxingolo, Mdliki, Ubisi, Makua, Jacobs, Tose, Cilliers.

Brazil: Silva; Barth, Fioravanti, Nicolau, Santini; Kochhann, Mayumi Bednarski; Barros, Leni Lima, Prioste, Coimbra, Souza, Henwood, Carvalho, Carvalo.

Referee: Hollie Davidson (Scotland)

Assistant referees: Holly Wood (England), Jess Ling (Australia)

Women’s Rugby World Cup – Pool D

South Africa (26) 66

Tries: Roos, Hele 3, Malinga 2, Janse van Rensburg 2, Ngwevu, Makua Cons: Dolf 8

Brazil (3) 6

“We are here to show Brazil have more than just soccer.”

Fly-half Raquel Kochhann may not have achieved her initial dream of playing football for her country, but she did get the chance to show her kicking skills on the world stage.

Brazil were 12-0 down to South Africa on their Women’s Rugby World Cup debut when a penalty was awarded.

From just outside the 22, and at a slight angle, it was that awkward kick that you should get, but it was far from a gimme.

It was never in doubt and Kochhann’s historic strike sailed through with ease, as did a penalty in the second half.

Those were the only scores registered by Brazil as they fell to a heavy opening 66-6 defeat, but afterwards the players stressed the significance of becoming the first South American team to make the Women’s World Cup.

“We are so excited to be here to show the world Brazilian rugby,” said Kochhann.

“I am really sure we are inspiring young girls and players in Brazil to see a future by seeing us play at the highest level possible.”

Brazil’s World Cup debut was much anticipated because of their sevens flair, but it was their toughness and bravery in defence that stood out.

A large portion of the squad come from tough favelas, and have had to fight harder than most to reach the global stage.

Kochhann, who won her seventh XVs cap in Northampton, is a sevens specialist and has been to three Olympic Games, overcoming breast cancer to feature in Paris last year.

The lowest-ranked team at the tournament in 25th, Brazil had only played 16 Tests of XV-a-side rugby prior to the tournament. They only celebrated their first win in 2023 over Portugal.

Even when the Brazil national anthem ended in Northampton, the players continued to sing full of emotion.

“We screamed to everyone that we are warriors and are ready,” Kochhann added.

“It is really important that we had a load of Brazilians here and those supporting us in Brazil. This energy is important to show people are looking out and caring about us.

“It shows rugby matters, I love this energy. I am super excited to see how our team grows.

Bianca Silva’s excellent early try-saving tackle on Ayanda Malinga typified that warrior mindset – one of 168 tackles her team made in the game.

Springbok number eight Aseza Hele bagged a hat-trick and was one player Brazil could simply not stop because of her brutal power.

The Brazil supporters remained loud throughout the game, bringing a positive and fun attitude even in defeat.

Nadia is from one of the smallest states in Brazil and relocated to England three years ago.

“It doesn’t matter which part of Brazil you are from, and it is huge, but it feels like one, there was no way I couldn’t be here as I had to support the team,” she told BBC Sport.

“Brazil qualifying for the World Cup has been huge for the country to show how much you can do. This can get more funding, support and people playing.”

Fabiano, who was a number eight in his youth, travelled all the way from Sao Paulo for the game with his son Fergus and daughter Bella.

Brazil’s women’s sevens team have qualified for the past three Olympics and finished ninth in the recent World Series.

“Since the Rio Olympics the sport has grown. We liked that it was fast,” he told BBC Sport.

“I heard the women’s team warmed up with music and samba while training. It brings happiness to the game, that’s why we like it.

“Brazil has the potential to really like XVs, it is a team game like football. We like ball!”

Brazil now face France, who defeated Italy in their opening game, in Exeter next Saturday.

Les Bleues, ranked fourth in the world, are contenders to win the tournament and will be a big step up in competition.

South Africa: Dolf; Dolf, Mpupha, Ngwevu, Malinga; Van Rensburg, Roos; Charlie, Gwala, Latsha, Booi (capt), Lochner, Solontsi, Mcatshulwa, Hele.

Replacements: Gunter, Ngxingolo, Mdliki, Ubisi, Makua, Jacobs, Tose, Cilliers.

Brazil: Silva; Barth, Fioravanti, Nicolau, Santini; Kochhann, Mayumi Bednarski; Barros, Leni Lima, Prioste, Coimbra, Souza, Henwood, Carvalho, Carvalo.

Referee: Hollie Davidson (Scotland)

Assistant referees: Holly Wood (England), Jess Ling (Australia)

Pool D of the Women’s Rugby World Cup

South Africa (26) 66

Cons: Dolf 8; Tries: Roos, Hele 3, Malinga 2, Janse van Rensburg 2, Ngwevu, Makua

Brazil (3) 6

“We are here to demonstrate that Brazil has more than just soccer.”

Raquel Kochhann, a flyhalf, did not realize her initial ambition to play football for her country, but she did get the chance to demonstrate her kicking prowess on the international stage.

On their Women’s Rugby World Cup debut, Brazil were 2-0 up against South Africa on penalties.

It was an awkward kick from a slight angle just outside the 22, but it was far from a gimme.

Both a penalty and Kochhann’s legendary strike sailed through the second half with ease.

Brazil’s only official scores of 66-6 were recorded by them as they suffered a significant opening defeat, but the players later stressed the significance of making the women’s world’s first South American team.

“We’re so excited to be playing Brazilian rugby here,” Kochhann said.

“I’m really confident that we are guiding young Brazilian girls and players toward a bright future by ensuring that our game is played at the highest level possible.”

Due to their sevens flair, Brazil’s World Cup debut was eagerly awaited, but it was their toughness and bravery that stood out.

The squad has had to work harder than most to reach the global stage because a large portion of them is from tough favelas.

Kochhann, who won her seventh XVs cap in Northampton, is a sevens expert and has attended three Olympic games, including one where she battled breast cancer.

Brazil, the 25th-ranked team at the tournament, had only ever played 16 XV-a-side rugby Tests before the competition. Their first victory over Portugal came in 2023.

The players continued to sing full of emotion even after Northampton’s performance of the Brazilian national anthem came to an end.

“We yelled out to everyone that we were prepared and warriors,” Kochhann continued.

“It is really important that there were plenty of Brazilians here and there supporting us there.” This energy is crucial to demonstrating that people care about us and are looking out for us.

I adore this energy because it proves rugby matters. I’m very interested to see how our team develops.

One of the 168 tackles her team made in the game was Bianca Silva’s excellent early try-saving tackle on Ayanda Malinga, which epitomized the warrior mindset.

Aseza Hele, the eighth-ranked Springbok, scored a hat-trick and was one of Brazil’s unstoppable players due to her brutality.

Even in defeat, the Brazil supporters kept the crowd oozing with cheer and fun throughout the game.

Nadia moved to England three years ago after moving from one of Brazil’s smallest states.

There was no way I couldn’t be here because I had to support the team, she said, “It’s not matter which region of Brazil you are from, and it’s huge, but it feels like one.”

Brazil’s success in qualifying for the World Cup has demonstrated how effective you are, according to the nation. This could result in more funding, more encouragement, and more gamers.

Fabiano, who was a number eight in his youth, traveled from Sao Paulo with his daughter Bella and son Fergus.

The women’s sevens team from Brazil qualified for the past three Olympics and placed ninth overall overall.

The sport has grown since the Rio Olympics, according to the statement. He told BBC Sport, “We liked how quick it was.”

“During training, I overheard the women’s team getting warmed up with samba and music. We enjoy it because it makes the game happy.

Brazil has the potential to “like” XVs because it’s a team game like football. “We enjoy ball!”

Next Saturday in Exeter, Brazil will face France, who defeated Italy in their opening game.

Les Bleues, who is fourth in the world, are a potential winner, and their competition will be much tougher.

Gunter, Ngxingolo, Ngxingolo, Mdliki, Ubisi, Makua, Jacobs, Tose, Cilliers as replacements.

Brazil’s top athletes: Silva, Barth, Fioravanti, Nicolau, Nicolau, Santini, Kochhann, Mayumi Bednarski, Barros, Leni Lima, Prioste, Coimbra, Souza, Henwood, Carvalho, Carvalho.

Holly Wood (England) and Jess Ling (Australia) serve as assistant referees.