Qatari side Al Duhail are close to signing Luis Alberto, agreeing a deal with Lazio worth around €11 million for the attacking midfielder. The two clubs were at odds over the deal a couple of days ago, but have now reached a breakthrough in negotiations, with Lazio president Lotito now close to sanctioning the transfer.
The final details are being sorted out between the two parties now, and the player is expected to fly to the Middle East right after. Once he has landed, he will be expected to pass a medical assessment and sign the documents formally to complete the transfer.
Luis Alberto to join Qatari side Al Duhail from Lazio
🚨🇶🇦 Qatari side Al Duhail have agreed on fee with Lazio for Luis Alberto around €11m plus add-ons.
Alberto has been with Lazio since 2016, after he left Liverpool. And since then, he has been a regular for the Albiceleste, making 307 appearances across all competitions while scoring 52 goals and providing 79 assists.
During this time, he also won the Coppa Italia once in 18/19 and the Supercoppa Italiana twice in 17/18 and 19/20.
The Spaniard has been quite productive this past season as well, scoring five goals and providing 11 assists in 44 games across all competitions. However, the end to his Lazio career was fast-forwarded after a fallout with the hierarchy in spite of extending his contract just last year.
Cristiano Ronaldo was inconsolable after Al Nassr lost the Saudi King’s Cup final to Al Hilal 5-4 on penalties, with the Portuguese breaking down after Meshari Al-Nemer missed his penalty.
The match was a fiery affair, with Al Nassr goalkeeper David Ospina sent off early in the second half. Things spiralled out of control towards the end of the game, with Al Hilal’s Ali Al-Bulaihi and Kalidou Koulibaly both sent off on either side of the equalising goal from Ayman Yahya.
Cristiano Ronaldo breaks down after Al Nassr lose Saudi King’s Cup final
🟡🔵🇵🇹 Al Nassr CEO Guido Fienga confirms that Cristiano Ronaldo will stay at the club also next season.
Al Nassr had extra time to find a winner, having the man advantage for around half an hour as they had ten, in comparison to Al Hilal’s nine. But, they simply could not find a way through the defence in spite of the two opposing central defenders being sent off.
In the end, Bono stepped up to win another penalty shootout, with two crucial saves to help his side win the trophy. The Moroccan was incredible at the World Cup, and has continued to show why he is still one of the top keepers in Saudi Arabia.
For Ronaldo, it means the Club Champions Cup is the only trophy he has won since his transfer to Al Nassr. The club’s CEO, Guido Fienga, has confirmed that the veteran will stay at the club for one more season, in an attempt to win the Saudi Pro League title and combat Al Hilal’s incredible run.
Chelsea have reached an agreement to sign Tosin Adarabioyo on a free transfer, as confirmed by Fabrizio Romano. The former Fulham centre-back was available after his contract with the Cottagers expired, and he will now move to the other side of Fulham Road and join the Blues.
Aged 26, Adarabioyo will be the fourth-oldest player in the current Chelsea squad after Marcus Bettinelli, Raheem Sterling and Ben Chilwell. The medical tests have been scheduled for the coming week, and the documents will be signed after the player has passed the assessment.
Tosin Adarabioyo to sign for Chelsea on free transfer
🚨🔵 Tosin Adarabioyo to Chelsea, here we go! Initial approach one month ago and verbal agreement reached today.
Medical tests have also been booked, set to take place next week.
Documents set to be signed after medical, if all goes to plan.
A number of clubs were interested in signing the player, including Newcastle United, especially since he was available for free. However, the Blues have offered him a bigger deal than Newcastle, ensuring that he will replace Thiago Silva, who left the club after four years.
The defender was previously with the Manchester City U23s, and will now reunite with Enzo Maresca at Chelsea. He is comfortable on the ball and has a couple of years of Premier League experience under his belt, making him a shrewd new addition to the side.
Now, it remains to be seen whether Tosin Adarabioyo’s arrival will mean Chelsea sell Trevoh Chalobah, as the academy graduate has been linked with an exit for years now.
The Indian film business, also known as Bollywood, has captured audiences worldwide with its colorful storyline, compelling performers, and enchanting song-and-dance routines. Throughout the years, several films have graced the silver screen, leaving an unforgettable impact on the hearts and minds of moviegoers.
Among these cinematic classics, a select number have achieved extraordinary economic success, smashing box office records and establishing themselves as the
Top 10 Highest-Grossing Hindi Films in last 10 Years:
1.Jawan
Shah Rukh Khan’s action-drama film follows Azad, the jailer of a Mumbai women’s prison, hijacks a Mumbai Metro train with six inmates: Lakshmi, Eeram, Ishkra, Kalki, Helena, and Janhvi, and holds the passengers hostage. Azad describes how Kalki’s father, a farmer, committed suicide due of his inability to repay loans. The total collection of the film is Rs. 643.87 crore.
2. Animal
Ranbir Kapoor’s much-anticipated film features Ranvijay “Vijay” Singh, the son of Balbir Singh, a powerful Delhi-based industrialist. Despite Balbir’s severe parenting style, Vijay has a strong bond with his father. Balbir is unaware of his son’s loyalty to him due to his busy schedule, which also prevents him from spending time with his family. The total collection of the film is Rs. 556.36 crore.
3. Pathaan
Pathaan is SRK’s most successful action drama film, based on the following story. Pathaan, an exiled RAW agent, collaborates with ISI agent Rubina Mohsin to stop Jim, a former RAW agent who intends to strike India with a lethal lab-generated virus. Principal photography began in November 2020 in Mumbai. The total collection of the film is Rs. 543.05 crore.
4. Gadar 2
Sunny Deol’s prequel film is based on Tara Singh, who goes missing after a conflict and is thought to be caught in Pakistan. His son Jeetey sets out to rescue him and enters a maze from which they both must escape at all costs. Gadar II brings back India’s most beloved family, Tara, Sakeena, and Jeete, 22 years after its predecessor. The total collection of the film is Rs. 525.45 crore.
5. Dangal
Aamir Khan’s film follows Mahavir Singh Phogat, a former amateur wrestler educated in the pehlwani style of Indian wrestling who is a national wrestling champion based in Balali, Haryana. His ordinary Indian father forces him to give up sports in order to find work. The total collection of the film is Rs. 387.38 crore.
6. Sanju
The film follows the life of Bollywood actor Sanjay Dutt, concentrating on his drug addiction, arrest for suspected involvement in the 1993 Bombay bombings, relationship with his father, and acting career. The total collection of the film is Rs. 342.53 crore.
7. PK
A naked humanoid alien arrives on Earth for a research trip in Rajasthan, India, and is stuck when the remote control to summon his spaceship is stolen. In Belgium, Jagat “Jaggu” Janani Sahni, an Indian woman, meets and falls in love with Pakistani guy Sarfaraz Yousuf. The total collected for the film is Rs. 340.80 crore.
8. Tiger Zinda Hai
The film takes set after the events of Ek Tha Tiger, in which Tiger and Zoya emerge from hiding to save nurses held hostage by a terrorist organization called ISC in Iraq. The total collection of the film is Rs. 339.16 crore.
9. Bajrangi Bhaijaan
Shahida, a six-year-old mute child, lives in the hills of Sultanpur in Jhelum, Pakistan. One afternoon, she is playing on a hill when she slips off. When she does not return home at the end of the day, the villagers form a search team. The total collection of the film is Rs. 320.34 crore.
10. Baahubali 2
The Beginning serves as both a sequel and a prequel. The film is set in medieval India and chronicles the sibling rivalry of Amarendra Baahubali and Bhallaladeva, who conspires against the former and has him assassinated by Kattappa. The total collection of the film is Rs. 510.99 crore.
11. KGF 2
Rocky’s name frightens his opponents in the blood-soaked Kolar Gold Fields, while the government regards him as a threat to law enforcement. Rocky must confront threats from all sides in order to maintain undisputed control. The total collection of the film is Rs. 435.33 crore.
Four Real Madrid legends can now claim they have the most Champions League trophies in history, with six each to their name. The same number as Bayern Munich and Liverpool each. And one more than rivals Barcelona in their entire history.
After defeating Borussia Dortmund 2-0 at Wembley Stadium to earn their 15th Champions League trophy, Real Madrid have made history once again.
Luka Modric, Toni Kroos, Dani Carvajal and Nacho Fernandez have all won six Champions League trophies each, the most of all-time. And for Kroos, it will be his last as he is set to retire from football after the Euros. The same could be said for Nacho, who is also set to leave the club in June.
Most Champions League trophies of all-time: Real Madrid legends break new record
The only players in football history to win SIX Champions League trophies 🏆
▫️ Toni Kroos ▫️ Dani Carvajal ▫️ Luka Modric ▫️ Nacho
Carvajal produced a man of the match performance in the 2024 finals, keeping a clean sheet and scoring the opening goal to help Madrid win the title. And he is most likely to make it seven, since he is the youngest of the lot at 32, and could easily stay for a few more years.
Modric will also stay at the club for one more season, after which he could retire from football. The Croatian is still going strong at 38, and will sign an extension to keep him at Madrid until 2025.
Only Toni Kroos has won one Champions League title with Bayern Munich in 2013 alongside five with Madrid. The rest have all lifted the trophy in the famous white shirt. And if they win number 16 next season, Modric and Carvajal could rise ahead of the group as the only players to lift seven.
Real Madrid have won the Champions League for the 15th time in their history, defeating Borussia Dortmund 2-0 at Wembley Stadium in the final to seal the title. Dani Carvajal was voted the player of the match after putting in a remarkable performance in defence, and also scoring the first goal of the game.
The Spaniard produced an incredible header from a corner taken by Toni Kroos, and broke the deadlock in the second half. He also kept Karim Adeyemi at bay throughout the 90 minutes, save for the first few opportunities the German got in the game, but squandered.
Real Madrid win 15th Champions League trophy defeating Dortmund
Toni Kroos: “This is the perfect ending, just the ending I always dreamed off. Thanks to all of you, really”.
The last dance at the peak of his career… at Wembley, after winning the Champions League for the 6th time. 🎩✨ pic.twitter.com/9XzsQ7LqR0
Vinicius Jr scored the second goal of the game, becoming only the second player since Lionel Messi under the age of 24 to score in multiple Champions League finals. Ian Maatsen played a loose pass back to his goal under pressure, which was intercepted by Jude Bellingham in the middle.
The Englishman squared it to Vinicius on the left, who finally scored after being a threat all game, and end Borussia Dortmund’s hopes of a comeback.
While the black and yellow club had a number of chances in the first half, they just could not convert them, and the misses proved to be costly later in the game. Madrid upped their tempo in the second half and prevented Dortmund from creating a lot of chances after the break.
To make things even more bitter, Niclas Fullkrug’s headed goal late in the game was ruled out for offside, denying Dortmund a consolation goal as well.
For Toni Kroos, it is farewell at the highest of stages. The German midfielder ends his Real Madrid career as a 6-time Champions League winner, alongside Modric, Carvajal and Nacho. On the other hand, Marco Reus bids farewell to Borussia Dortmund as the runners up in the Champions League final.
Top 10 Football Leagues in UEFA’s Latest Rankings: In UEFA’s recent league rankings, there has been a notable shift in the hierarchy of European football leagues. For the first time since the 2006/07 season, Serie A has climbed its way back into the top two, displacing LaLiga to third place. This shift reflects the competitive nature and evolving landscape of European football. Let’s delve into the rankings and explore the current standing of the top 10 football leagues in UEFA‘s latest assessment.
Top 10 Football Leagues in UEFA’s Latest Rankings
LaLiga drops to third as Serie A moves into the Top 2 for the first time since 2006/07 in UEFA's latest league rankings 📈😲🇮🇹 pic.twitter.com/KePDWVBf5H
The English Premier League maintains its stronghold at the summit of UEFA’s league rankings. Renowned for its intensity, drama, and global appeal, the Premier League continues to attract top talents from around the world. With its thrilling matches and fierce competition among clubs, it’s no surprise that the Premier League retains its position as the pinnacle of European football leagues.
2. Italian Serie A
In a significant resurgence, Serie A has surged into second place, marking its highest rank since the 2006/07 season. The Italian top flight has experienced a rejuvenation in recent years, with clubs investing in talent and infrastructure. The captivating style of play and historic rivalries have contributed to Serie A’s resurgence, making it a compelling destination for football enthusiasts worldwide.
3. Spanish LaLiga
LaLiga, historically one of Europe’s most dominant leagues, has slipped to third place in UEFA’s latest rankings. Despite boasting powerhouse clubs like Barcelona and Real Madrid, LaLiga has faced stiff competition from its European counterparts. Nevertheless, with its rich footballing heritage and technical prowess, LaLiga remains a force to be reckoned with in European football.
4. German Bundesliga
The German Bundesliga continues to maintain its status as one of Europe’s top football leagues. Known for its focus on youth development, fan engagement, and competitive balance, the Bundesliga offers a unique footballing experience. With clubs like Bayern Munich consistently performing on the continental stage, the Bundesliga remains a cornerstone of European football.
5. French Ligue 1
Ligue 1, the premier football league in France, secures its place among UEFA’s top 10 leagues. While facing challenges in competing with the financial might of other European leagues, Ligue 1 boasts a wealth of talent and flair. Paris Saint-Germain’s emergence as a European powerhouse has elevated the league’s profile, showcasing the vibrancy of French football.
6. Dutch Eredivisie
The Eredivisie, Netherlands’ top football division, continues to produce exciting young talents and vibrant footballing philosophies. Despite the league’s relatively smaller market size, Dutch clubs have a storied history of nurturing world-class players and playing attractive football. The Eredivisie’s commitment to youth development and attacking football ensures its enduring relevance in European football circles.
7. Liga Portugal
Portugal’s Primeira Liga, known as Liga Portugal, earns its place in UEFA’s top 10 rankings. While not as financially lucrative as some of its European counterparts, Liga Portugal boasts a strong footballing culture and a tradition of producing top-quality players. Clubs like Porto and Benfica have enjoyed success on the European stage, enhancing the league’s reputation and visibility.
8. Pro League
Belgium’s Pro League may be smaller in stature compared to other European leagues, but it packs a punch in terms of competitive football and talent development. The league’s emphasis on attacking football and nurturing young players has garnered attention from across Europe. With clubs like Club Brugge and Anderlecht flying the flag, the Pro League continues to make strides in UEFA’s rankings.
9. Turkish Super Lig
The Turkish Super Lig holds a prominent position in UEFA’s league rankings, reflecting the country’s passionate footballing culture and fervent fan base. Despite facing challenges in European competitions, the Super Lig boasts a competitive edge and a penchant for producing thrilling encounters. Istanbul giants Galatasaray, Fenerbahçe, and Beşiktaş ensure that Turkish football remains a formidable force.
10. Czech First League
Rounding off UEFA’s top 10 football leagues is the Czech First League, a testament to the league’s steady progress and competitiveness. While not as widely recognized as some of its European counterparts, the Czech First League offers a platform for developing talent and showcasing the country’s footballing heritage. Clubs like Slavia Prague and Sparta Prague represent the league with pride on the European stage.
Dinesh Karthik : Veteran Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has officially announced his retirement from all forms of cricket, marking the end of a distinguished career that spanned two decades. Known for his resilience, skill, and sportsmanship, Karthik leaves behind a legacy filled with memorable moments and significant achievements.
Let’s have a look into more details : Dinesh Karthik– Farewell to All Formats of Cricket
The Official Announcement
On Saturday, Karthik took to social media to share the emotional news with his fans and the cricketing community. “Having given it plenty of thought for some time now, I have decided to move on from playing representative cricket. I officially announce my retirement and put my playing days behind me as I square up for the new challenges that lie ahead,” Karthik wrote.
A Journey Through Numbers
Dinesh Karthik’s career statistics are a testament to his dedication and talent:
180 International Matches
3,463 International Runs
172 Dismissals
1 ICC T20 World Cup Win
Karthik first captured public attention with a spectacular airborne stumping of Michael Vaughan in 2004 and continued to impress in various formats and roles.
A Fitting Farewell
The decision to retire came shortly after his final appearance in the IPL 2024 Eliminator against Rajasthan Royals, where he played for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Despite the loss, Karthik’s contributions were celebrated by teammates and fans alike. He received a heartfelt send-off from the RCB players, with Virat Kohli and others honoring him for his immense contributions to the game.
An Emotional Goodbye
In his farewell message, Karthik expressed gratitude to everyone who supported him throughout his career. “I’d like to thank all my coaches, captains, selectors, teammates, and members of the support staff who have made this long journey enjoyable. Among millions that play the sport in our country, I consider myself one of the luckiest to have had the chance to represent my country,” he added.
Highlights of a Glorious Career
International Debut: Karthik made his debut in 2004, even before MS Dhoni and played under several captains including Sourav Ganguly, Rahul Dravid, Anil Kumble, MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli.
IPL Success: Over a stellar IPL career, Karthik amassed 4,842 runs in 257 matches, featuring 22 fifties. He played for multiple franchises, including Delhi Daredevils, Kings XI Punjab, Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Lions, Kolkata Knight Riders and RCB.
Despite facing competition and frequent changes in team dynamics, Karthik continually reinvented himself, particularly excelling as a finisher in the IPL’s later stages.
While Karthik has retired from playing, he hinted at new challenges ahead, likely involving cricket commentary and other roles within the sport. His insights and experiences will undoubtedly enrich the cricketing world in his post playing career.
Dinesh Karthik’s retirement marks the end of an era for Indian cricket. His contributions, both on and off the field, have left an indelible mark on the sport. As he steps into a new chapter, the cricketing community bids farewell to a true gentleman of the game. Good luck, DK, in your new innings. You’ve made cricket proud and given countless memories to cherish.
India vs Bangladesh Warm Up Match: In a thrilling warm up match ahead of the 2024 T20 World Cup, India showcased their prowess by defeating Bangladesh by 60 runs at the Nassau County International Stadium in New York. This match served as a crucial practice session for both teams as they gear up for the main tournament.
Let’s have a look into more details : India vs Bangladesh Warm Up Match
Key Highlights of the Match
Rishabh Pant played a scintillating knock, scoring 53 runs off just 32 balls. He retired out after his explosive innings, giving other players a chance to bat.
Hardik Pandya continued his impressive form, smashing 40 runs off 23 balls, remaining unbeaten and adding crucial runs in the death overs.
In a surprise move, Sanju Samson opened the batting with captain Rohit Sharma. Samson’s inclusion added flexibility to India’s batting lineup.
Rohit Sharma contributed 23 runs off 19 balls, while Suryakumar Yadav added 31 runs off 18 balls, ensuring a solid foundation for India.
India’s Innings
India won the toss and elected to bat first. The decision proved fruitful as they posted a competitive total of 182/5 in their allotted 20 overs. Sanju Samson’s early dismissal for a duck brought Rishabh Pant to the crease, who, along with Rohit Sharma, stabilized the innings. Pant’s aggressive batting set the tone, and subsequent contributions from Hardik Pandya and Suryakumar Yadav ensured India had a formidable score to defend.
Bangladesh’s Struggle Against Indian Bowling
Bangladesh faced a challenging task of chasing 183 runs. Arshdeep Singh and Jasprit Bumrah opened the bowling for India and made early inroads into the Bangladeshi batting lineup. Arshdeep, in particular, was exceptional, taking two early wickets and finishing with figures of 2/3 in his two overs.
Arshdeep Singh and Mohammed Siraj were lethal with the new ball, reducing Bangladesh to 27/3 in the powerplay.
The spin duo kept the pressure on Bangladesh’s middle order, making scoring difficult.
Mahmudullah and Shakib Al Hasan tried to resist with a brief counter attack, but their efforts were not enough to chase down the target. Shakib’s dismissal, courtesy of a sharp bouncer from Bumrah, sealed Bangladesh’s fate.
Strategic Bowling Changes
Rohit Sharma’s captaincy was on point, rotating his bowlers effectively to ensure constant pressure on the Bangladeshi batsmen. Shivam Dube’s late inclusion into the attack proved successful as he picked up crucial wickets, preventing any lower order fightback from Bangladesh.
This comprehensive victory gives India a significant morale boost ahead of their first T20 World Cup match against Ireland on June 5. The team management would be pleased with the form shown by key players like Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya. Meanwhile, Bangladesh will need to regroup and address their batting woes before facing Sri Lanka in their opening match on June 8.
In a milestone for the Indian space sector, start-up Agnikul Cosmos successfully launched its country’s first-ever “Agnibaan-SOrTeD”, the world’s first rocket to be powered by a completely 3D-printed engine The launch took place from India’s first private Indigenous rocket launch site, ‘Dhanush’, which was created by Agnikul in Sriharikota.
Agnikul: Firsy 3D-Printed Rocket Engine Launch
It marks a milestone for India’s expanding private space industry. The rocket, which is powered by India’s first indigenously designed and manufactured semi-cryogenic engine, lifted off from the launch pad at 7:15 AM IST. Though it was a test flight aimed at propelling Agnikul’s upcoming orbital launch vehicle, “Agnibaan,” the successful launch of “Agnibaan – SOrTeD” (Sub-Orbital Technology Demonstrator) underlines Agnikul’s innovative competencies.
A number of the most important Indians in the field of space were present, including Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) Chairman Dr. S. Somanath and IN-SPACe Chairman Dr. Pawan Goenka. Dr. Somanath congratulating Agnikul said that the launch “demonstrates the might of indigenous design and innovation” and serves as a testament to the promise of private players in shaping India’s space future. Dr. Goenka also concurred by saying, “This is certainly a message that will be remembered for ages as a remarkable day in India’s space sector for private contributors.”
Lt. Gen. A.K. Bhatt (Retd.) The Director General of the Indian Space Association (ISpA) said, “What Agnikul has been able to achieve today is a mini milestone towards reaching India’s first rocket launch in 1963 from Thumba launch station.” He said the Agnibaan SOrTeD topic scores many firsts like — India’s first from a private launchpad, the first semi-cryogenic powered rocket launch, and the world’s first with a single-piece 3D printed engine, concept, design, and deployment originating from India. This, he said was an important milestone for the growing private space industry in India and extended Congratulations to the entire team and best wishes for their future endeavours.
Incubated at IIT Madras, Agnikul is working towards democratizing space access by offering cost-effective and flexible launch solutions. The vehicle is Agnibaan, a flagship “Agnibaan” rocket that will be capable of carrying anywhere between 30 kg to 300 kg payloads, depending on mission profiles. With this successful launch, Agnikul is poised for an orbital mission by the end of 2025, heralding a new era for private space exploration in India.
