Sports
UWCL playoff round preview: Can Arsenal maintain winning momentum?
The inaugural UEFA Women’s Champions League play-offs get underway on Wednesday, ushering in a new chapter in the competition’s format and raising the stakes for the eight teams in the mix.
The sides that finished between fifth and 12th in the league phase now face a high-pressure, two-legged battle to progress to the knockouts and with little room for error, the play-offs present contrasting motivations. Established powers such as Arsenal and Wolfsburg are aiming to reaffirm their place among Europe’s elite, while Manchester United and OH Leuven hope to rewrite history and extend what has already been a standout debut campaign. Elsewhere, Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid are driven by the chance to recapture former glory, each pushing to surpass their best-ever runs in the competition.
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Aside from Wolfsburg and Juventus — familiar adversaries from previous editions of the competition — all remaining ties feature opponents who already crossed paths in the league phase. However, much has changed since those earlier meetings, with the winter break and transfer window reshaping squads, form, and momentum across the board.
With quarterfinal places on the line at the end of March, the stakes are high. The winners will advance to face the four teams who secured automatic qualification to the knockouts: Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Chelsea, and OL Lyonnes.
Arsenal vs. OH Leuven: Rejuvenated Arsenal present a different challenge
The last time Arsenal faced debutants OH Leuven came at the tail end of 2025 during a turbulent period for the reigning champions. A poor run of form had left them needing not only a win, but also several favourable results elsewhere to secure a top-four finish. Disappointing outcomes in both the Champions League and the Women’s Super League (WSL) had effectively derailed their European title defence and domestic push for a first title since 2019, with losses and draws all but ruling them out of contention.
That context could not be more different from the one surrounding this two-legged play-off, as Arsenal have started the second half of the season in formidable fashion. Taking seven points from fellow top three sides in their first three league matches of the year has sent a clear message, including a narrow 1-0 victory over champions-elect Manchester City that’s opened the door slightly on the title race. Momentum has carried beyond the domestic competitions, with Arsenal lifting the inaugural FIFA Champions Cup and claiming the mantle of world champions, though they were aided by the advantages afforded to them.
Their 3-0 victory over OH Leuven in the league phase came at a time when Arsenal were struggling for attacking fluency, regularly failing to convert chances, and showing uncharacteristic defensive vulnerability. Despite the comfortable scoreline, the performance was far from their best. Now, however, the title holders appear to have finally found their rhythm at both ends of the pitch, and OL Leuven are likely in for a far sterner test if they are to reach the knockouts for the first time.
Paris FC vs. Real Madrid: Spanish side’s chance for an El Clasico knockout
Real Madrid were held to a 1-1 draw by Paris FC in the league phase, a result that summed up a campaign marked by inconsistency. Expectations around the side have often outpaced their on-pitch output, but a potential breakthrough looms if they can navigate the play-offs. Waiting on the other side could be the women’s Champions League’s first El Clasico since 2022 — a painful 5-2 drubbing — but old wounds may be the motivation needed to galvanise this Madrid squad.
Madrid endured 18 consecutive defeats at the hands of the Catalans. However, their landmark first Clasico victory in March 2025 has shifted the narrative. That result not only boosted belief domestically, but could also prove decisive in sharpening focus against Paris FC and in reigniting ambitions to challenge Europe’s elite, including last season’s finalists and former champions.
Historically, Madrid have never progressed beyond the quarterfinals of the competition. The desire to finally disrupt Barcelona’s dominance and secure a first-ever semifinal appearance may be the fuel that drives them forward.
There is no shortage of intent or ambition within the squad, but the execution has been lacking on pitch. Conversion remains their biggest concern. Despite averaging more than 20 shots per game this season, Madrid have repeatedly struggled to turn pressure into goals, often scoring just once or twice per match. If they can find greater ruthlessness in front of goal, the pathway to their deepest Champions League run yet may finally open.
Wolfsburg vs. Juventus: German side’s inability to hold positive positions proves Juve’s biggest chance
Wolfsburg have often looked in control during both individual matches and stretches of the league phase this season, yet time and again they have found ways to let those advantages slip. Few sides have been as consistently well-positioned, and few have been as frustrated by the outcomes. For example, the German giants managed to protect leads in their opening two fixtures before eight-time champions OL Lyonnes handed them their first defeat of the campaign. A subsequent victory over Manchester United appeared to steady the ship, leaving Wolfsburg in a strong position: if they could avoid defeat in their final two matches, a top-four finish would have been secured.
Instead, familiar flaws resurfaced. Against Real Madrid, Wolfsburg failed to capitalise despite enjoying a two-player advantage, falling to a damaging 2-0 defeat. Days later, an early lead against Chelsea once again went to waste, ending in a 2-1 loss. They ranked 16th out of 18 league-phase teams in minutes trailing (166), which reinforced a long-standing concern about the club: when Wolfsburg are on top, they too often struggle to maintain control and see games through.
That inconsistency makes this fixture difficult to predict. History offers some comfort — Wolfsburg remain one of the only winners of the competition — but recent years suggest a lingering psychological hurdle. They have not lifted the trophy since 2014 and memories of the 2023 final remain raw, when a commanding early 2-0 lead descended into a 4-2 defeat to Barcelona.
It is unlikely that Wolfsburg will have fixed this issue of surrendering winning positions ahead of facing Juventus. Until they prove otherwise, confidence in their ability to close out decisive moments will remain fragile, and the Italian side may look to capitalise on those fragilities to reach the knockouts.
Atletico Madrid vs. Manchester United: Are we seeing the rise of Atletico?
Atletico and United have already crossed paths during the league phase, where the English debutants claimed a narrow 1-0 win. The Spanish side have quietly established themselves as one of the competition’s dark horses, navigating the group stage without elimination and, on paper at least, securing one of the more favourable routes to the knockout rounds.
United, making their competition debut, present a formidable challenge. Conscious of their struggles in front of goal earlier in the campaign, they have reinforced their attacking options with three new signings in an effort to add cutting edge. Yet Atleti’s steady rise has shifted the balance of the tie in their favour.
The ill-tempered contest that saw both sides reduced to 10 players last time out has only sharpened Atleti’s resolve as they look to make a statement on the European stage. The Spanish side found the net 13 times across their six league-phase matches, underlining their attacking threat, and both teams arrive in improved form compared to their last encounter.
Atletico also have won four of their last five two-legged ties in UEFA competitions. By contrast, United’s limited experience at this level is reflected in a mixed record, with one win and one defeat across two-legged ties.
For Atletico, this represents a chance to rekindle European momentum they have not truly felt since their quarter-final appearance in 2019-20. Having often struggled to even qualify in recent seasons, an impressive league campaign last year has altered perceptions. Now, belief is growing that this run could go further.
The Trump administration will temporarily waive visa bond requirements for eligible World Cup ticket-holders from countries subject to a controversial US travel deposit scheme, a State Department official said on Wednesday.
Citizens from 50 countries have been required since last year to pay deposits ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 to obtain tourist visas for the United States, with the money refunded upon departure. Washington said the measure was introduced to prevent visa overstays.
Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs Mora Namdar said the bond requirement would now be lifted for qualifying football fans attending this summer’s FIFA World Cup.
“(The United States is) waiving visa bonds for qualified fans who bought World Cup tickets and opted in to FIFA PASS as of April 15, 2026,” Namdar told Al Jazeera.
The waiver also applies to eligible players, coaches and team staff from the affected countries.
Five nations subject to the visa bond rules qualified for the World Cup: Algeria, Cape Verde, Ivory Coast, Senegal and Tunisia.
However, separate Trump administration restrictions remain in place for some countries, including Haiti and Iran, whose citizens face broader entry bans under US immigration directives.
“We remain committed to strengthening US national security priorities while facilitating legitimate travel for the upcoming World Cup tournament,” Namdar said in a statement.
The FIFA World Cup will take place in June and July across the United States, Canada and Mexico. The tournament opens on June 11 in Mexico, while the first match in the United States is scheduled for June 12 in Inglewood, California. The final will be played on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
The US launched the FIFA PASS system in January to speed up visa processing for ticket-holders. To qualify for the waiver, fans from affected countries had to register through the programme by April 15.
The administration’s immigration crackdown has drawn scrutiny ahead of the tournament, including concerns over the presence of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers at venues.
Human Rights Watch last month urged FIFA to seek an “ICE Truce” during the tournament, including guarantees against immigration enforcement operations at stadiums and related sites.
The Department of Homeland Security said international visitors attending the games “have nothing to worry about” if they hold legal immigration status.
Former Pakistan captain and all-rounder Shahid Afridi has been conferred Hilal-e-Imtiaz, the country’s second-highest civilian award, in recognition his outstanding services in the field of sports.
The award was conferred by President Asif Ali Zardari during a prestigious ceremony held at Aiwan-e-Sadr. Afridi was recognised for guiding Pakistan to their historic 2009 T20 World Cup triumph.
The honour also acknowledged Afridi’s contributions to England’s county cricket and his leadership role in the World Championship of Legends.
After receiving the award, Afridi wrote on X that receiving the Tamgha-e-Imtiaz from the president is an honour for him, adding that it represents not only his achievement but that of the entire Pakistani nation.
The former Pakistan captain said the award reflected the love, prayers and support he had received from the public throughout his career.
Afridi dedicated the honour to Pakistan’s martyrs, saying it was also in recognition of those who sacrificed their lives for the country.
He concluded by praying for Pakistan’s continued safety and prosperity.
The 46-year-old made exceptional contributions to Pakistan cricket across all formats, having played 398 ODIs and scored 8,064 runs, including 39 half-centuries and six centuries, while also claiming 395 wickets with nine five-wicket hauls.
In the T20I format, the right-handed batter featured in 99 matches, scoring 1,416 runs and taking 98 wickets.
Afridi also enjoyed vast experience in franchise cricket, representing teams in the Pakistan Super League, Lanka Premier League, Bangladesh Premier League, Caribbean Premier League, Champions League Twenty20, Big Bash League and Indian Premier League.
He was a key member of Pakistan’s squad that won the 2009 ICC World Twenty20, where they defeated Sri Lanka national cricket team in the final courtesy of Afridi’s all-round performance.
He scored an unbeaten 54 off 40 deliveries, including two fours and two sixes, and also claimed one wicket.
Sports
Cherie DeVaux reflects on making Kentucky Derby history as first female trainer to win the race
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Cherie DeVaux made history when Golden Tempo won the Kentucky Derby at the beginning of May, becoming the first female trainer to win the first leg of the Triple Crown.
DeVaux, 44, said that while she never made her gender part of her identity as a horse trainer, it was the one thing she wanted to do as a female.
“It was the one thing as a female I wanted to do just cause I thought it would be – it’s a neat benchmark. There are 151 runnings with all men, and then it’s me,” DeVaux told Fox News Digital in a recent interview.
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Cherie DeVaux, trainer of Golden Tempo, celebrates with the trophy in the winner’s circle after the 152nd Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, on May 2, 2026. (Michael Reaves/Getty Images)
“I have never made a stand that my gender was part of my identity as a trainer. I am a horse trainer. We all work really hard, male, female. So it wasn’t on the heels of being a female.”
For DeVaux, she was happy that the conversation about a female winning the Kentucky Derby could finally move on.
“I actually was getting a bit – I don’t want to say tired in a bad way, but that question kept coming up, and it’s like it’s time for the conversation to move on from it is how I felt. I quipped in the post-Derby interview, ‘Thank God I don’t have to answer that question anymore,’” DeVaux said.
The Saratoga Springs, New York, native, said that it’s an honor to be someone that people look up to.
“It’s an honor. And I hold great respect with the fact that I am somebody now that people, women, men, people look up to. That’s something that I don’t lose sight of, and I’m just out doing my thing, and if that can inspire somebody else, it’s a bonus on top,” DeVaux said.
“I’ve always felt like we need to be doing – we train horses, but we can reach the community, or others, just by doing what we’re doing and conducting yourself, holding yourself accountable and to a higher standard.”
GOLDEN TEMPO TO SKIP PREAKNESS STAKES, ENDING TRIPLE CROWN BID AS TRAINER CITES LONG-TERM HEALTH
Trainer Cherie DeVaux kisses the trophy after Golden Tempo won the 152nd Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, on May 2, 2026. (Abbie Parr/AP Photo)
DeVaux, about a week and a half removed from the Kentucky Derby win, said that things are finally starting to settle down.
“It’s been overwhelming in a really amazing way,” DeVaux said. “Been busy, doing a lot more extracurriculars other than running our stable, which I keep joking that when a league wins a championship, they go to Disney World, and we continue to have a lot of horses to train. So, things are starting to quiet down a little bit and getting back to the enjoyment of working with our horses and training the rest of the stable.”
Going into the race, Golden Tempo was 23-1 to win the Kentucky Derby. DeVaux said she felt good about Golden Tempo but was tempering her expectations.
“I felt that Golden Tempo was going to run a really good race. We targeted the race. We had a plan with him. He checked all the boxes. He got to the race in great order, but realistically, it’s the derby. And it’s our first trip to the derby, and there’s a lot of horses in it. It’s not a very good chance you’re going to win, right?” DeVaux said.
“So, just realistic expectations that I put on the whole situation was let’s have fun. Hopefully, Golden Tempo runs a really good race. He comes with a run and we’re going to be happy with that.”
JORDON HUDSON, BILL BELICHICK TAKE IN CHURCHILL DOWNS DURING KENTUCKY DERBY WEEKEND
Trainer Cherie DeVaux stands outside a barn after a workout at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, on April 27, 2026. (Charlie Riedel/AP Photo)
Golden Tempo’s running style is described as a deep closer, which means that he comes up to the pack from way out of it. DeVaux said they have tried to use blinkers to get him more engaged in the beginning of the race, but it’s just not his style.
Golden Tempo stayed true to form during the Kentucky Derby, as he surged from the back and into the lead late. DeVaux was making sure he didn’t dig himself too deep of a hole with a slow start.
“Most of the race, I was just keeping an eye on him, seeing how the race is unfolding in front of him. And there was a fast pace and a lot of those horses have not shown the propensity to want to go a mile and a quarter. Golden Tempo came closing at a mile and 3/16 in the Louisiana Derby. So, we were very confident in his ability to handle that distance,” DeVaux said.
“When I picked him up, I had a feeling that he was going to make a really good run and have a good showing of himself, but had given himself so much to do. So, as he’s picking them off, and he’s coming, and he’s coming and then when he got to Renegade is when it was like, ‘Oh my goodness, this might be happening’ to he got his head in front, and you know, the rest is history as they say.”
“I blacked out the last part of it when he won because I just couldn’t believe that he won the race. Like it was just disbelief of I can’t believe that really just happened.”
THE SURPRISING COST OF RENTING A HORSE STALL AT CHURCHILL DOWNS DURING THE KENTUCKY DERBY
Jockey Jose L. Ortiz celebrates after riding Golden Tempo to victory in the 152nd Kentucky Derby at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Ky., on May 2, 2026. (Abbie Parr/AP Photo)
Amid the chaos after winning, DeVaux said she hasn’t sat down and truly reflected on it all but has spent some time thinking about her journey into history.
“In brief moments, I find myself thinking about things that have happened in my life where I questioned my path, and it’s not just the path to me being a trainer. I was talking about something that happened in my late 20s with a relationship that went really badly, and I was telling my assistant actually about it. I thought if I could survive that, I can survive anything,” DeVaux said.
“I’ve had these moments along the way that I could have been discouraged, I could have left, and instead I just had the fortitude to push forward.”
The fortitude to push forward has indirectly led to her Instagram messages being flooded with congratulations.
“There have been a lot and still muddling through the inbox,” DeVaux said. “I didn’t realize how many messages you can really get on Instagram. Flavor Flav is the one that was jarring to me a little bit when he saw I was in New York, like ‘hey we have an event’ which my little ’90s child in me was thinking that was pretty cool.”
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Cherie DeVaux celebrates after becoming the first female trainer to win the Kentucky Derby during the 152nd running at Churchill Downs in Louisville, Kentucky, on May 2, 2026. (Andy Lyons/Getty Images)
For DeVaux, she never thought she would be here.
“I’ve been overwhelmed really with like the reaction videos of just Golden Tempo running, my reaction being a woman and you know that’s just something I never would have thought would have touched anybody,” DeVaux said.
“I’m just doing my thing, cheering my horse on.”
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