Sports
Egypt Manager Finally Explains Why He Used ‘X’ Gesture vs Argentina
Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan has finally explained his actions after appearing to make the anti-racism gesture during his side’s 2026 World Cup defeat to Argentina in the last 16.
Hassan’s side took a 2-0 lead against the reigning world champions but lost the game 3-2 after conceding three goals in the 79th, 83rd and 92nd minutes.
French referee Francois Letexier made several controversial calls, with the help of VAR, including ruling out a 58th-minute goal for Egypt following a foul on Lisandro Martinez at the opposite end of the pitch as the start of the move.
Egypt were also denied a penalty moments before Enzo Fernandez sent Argentina through to the quarter-finals with his last-gasp goal.
Mostafa Ziko, scorer of Egypt’s second goal, claimed the tournament was “rigged” after the match, while Hassan was quoted as saying: “They want Argentina and Messi to stay in the World Cup for marketing.”
Pierluigi Collina, FIFA’s Chief Refereeing Officer, subsequently released a statement condemning the “unfounded allegations” which “have no place in our sport”.
The legendary Italian referee explained why both of the two most controversial decisions were made.
⚽
World Cup History Quiz
You scored
out of 20
Hassan Explains ‘X’ Gesture During Argentina Match
Towards the end of the heated encounter, with his side on the verge of leaving the tournament following their late capitulation, an emotional Hassan was seen crossing his arms in a move perceived by some as the anti-racism gesture. Watch the footage below:
FIFA have officially recognised the ‘X’ gesture as part of its protocol for reporting alleged racist incidents during matches since 2024.
Letexier appeared to speak to Hassan moments after the gesture was made, but no further action was taken, implying it hadn’t been the Egyptian manager’s intention to flag a potential racist incident.
The 59-year-old has now confirmed that his gesture was his way of telling the referee there had been a miscarriage of justice.
“The gesture wasn’t racist,” Hassan is quoted as saying by The Sun.
“I was telling [the ref], ‘you’re not being fair’.”
He added: “[Lionel Messi] came up to me and said, ‘why?’ Why? Why?’ And I don’t know what else.
“It was one of the few times Messi got into arguments during a match. And he ended up crying because he was having a hard time emotionally.
“We were a very tough team and we put them in a difficult position. I tried not to respond to him and to avoid any verbal friction between us, out of respect for his career.”
Argentina went on to beat Switzerland in the quarter-finals and now face England in the semis, hoping to secure their spot in their seventh World Cup final.
La Albiceleste will become the first team to successfully defend the World Cup since Brazil in 1962 if they beat England and then defeat Spain in Sunday’s final at the New York New Jersey Stadium.
Sports
UFC Release Statement as Allan Nascimento Dies Aged 34
The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) have released a statement after fighter Allan Nascimento died suddenly aged 34.
The Brazilian mixed martial arts star was pronounced dead on Monday after being found unresponsive.
Nascimento, who had an overall career record of 22 wins (16 by way of submission) and seven defeats, last fought in June – a split-decision defeat to Mitch Raposo in Las Vegas.
Nicknamed “Puro Osso” – which translates as “skin and bones” – the flyweight from Sao Paolo, whose UFC journey began in 2021, has been described as a “skilled competitor and consummate professional”.
UFC Issue Statement
In an initial statement, the UFC said: “This morning, Monday, August 3rd, our beloved fighter and exemplary flyweight, Allan Nascimento, was found unresponsive after suffering an apparent heart attack in his sleep
“Despite the efforts of the responding medical team, he was pronounced deceased at the scene.Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Allan’s family, friends, teammates, and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”
The UFC later added: “It is with heavy hearts that UFC announces the passing of Brazilian flyweight Allan Nascimento, who was found unresponsive on the morning of Monday, August 3 after suffering an apparent heart attack; he was 34 years old.
“A member of the famed Chute Boxe Diego Lima team, Nascimento made six trips into the Octagon, amassing a 4-2 record while building a reputation as a skilled competitor and consummate professional. For his career, ‘Puro Osso’ compiled a 22-7 record with 16 of his wins coming by way of submission.
“A fixture on the doorstep of the Top 15, Nascimento was a constant presence alongside his teammates whenever they made the walk, sharing an especially close bond with former lightweight champion and current BMF titleholder Charles Oliveira.
“Our condolences go out to Nascimento’s family and friends, the Chute Boxe Diego Lima team, and all those impacted by this sudden, heartbreaking loss.”
Tributes Pour in For Allan Nascimento
Tributes have poured in from the MMA world. Former UFC champion Charles Oliveira wrote on social media: “Today I lost a brother that the fight game gave me.
“Thank you for always being by my side, for sharing the mats and the corner. I have nothing but gratitude for having you with me – in training, in the corner, and just hanging out. I love you, man; you’re a legend.”
UFC lightweight Elves Brener added: “Thank you for the wonderful journey, brother. You were always an incredible person, and today is an extremely sad day for all of us at Chute Boxe. I will carry you in my heart forever, champion.”
Meanwhile, Chute Boxing, where Nascimento trained, praised “a warrior, a friend, a dedicated competitor, and an extraordinary human being”.
They added: “Allan inspired others both on and off the mats with his determination, humility, respect, and fighting spirit.
“His presence will be missed beyond measure. Rest in peace, Allan; your name, your story, and your legacy will live on forever through our star.”
Sports
Tottenham Submit £47M Offer for Benfica Winger Andreas Schjelderup
Tottenham have submitted an offer to sign a new winger in the summer transfer window.
Spurs have been heavily focusing on strengthening in other areas of the pitch during the summer market, but attention is now turning to the forward line.
Tottenham have already brought in two midfielder options and three defenders, but they are yet to strengthen in the final third.
Roberto De Zerbi’s side are clearly investing heavily in the squad as they look to turn things around after a disappointing few years.
The North London club have finished 17th in the Premier League for two years on the bounce, but they did show signs of heading in the right direction under De Zerbi last campaign.
Tottenham submit new winger offer
According to reports, Tottenham have submitted an offer in the region of £47 million to sign Benfica winger Andreas Schjelderup in the summer transfer window.
Spurs are offering around £39 million up front, but Benfica are hoping for around £43 million as the guaranteed fee.
Effectively, Tottenham have met the asking price of Schjelderup, but they just need to alter the payment terms in order to agree a deal with Benfica.
It remains to be seen whether Schjelderup, described as a ‘diamond’, is keen on a move to Spurs in the summer transfer window, but Tottenham do appear to be close to agreeing a fee.
Fees correct prior to summer 2026
All 10 found — excellent!
Tottenham prioritising forward move
Tottenham are clearly pushing to bring in a new forward before the end of the summer transfer window.
Reports have claimed that they have opened talks with Liverpool over a potential move to sign Dutch forward Cody Gakpo. The former PSV man can play in multiple positions in attack, and it makes sense that De Zerbe is trying to poach him this summer.
It’s unclear where De Zerbi would plan on playing Gakpo. The Dutchman is capable of playing on the left side or through the middle of the attack as a striker or number 10.
Sports
Manchester United Eye £35m Galatasaray Full-Back Wilfred Singo
Manchester United are being linked with a move to sign a new full-back in the summer transfer window as they look to improve Michael Carrick’s squad.
The Red Devils have only strengthened in the midfield department so far in the summer transfer window, bringing in Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans from Chelsea and Aston Villa, respectively.
United have also secured the signature of goalkeeper Karl Darlow, but he’s likely to come in and be a backup option for Carrick.
Outside of that, United have been fairly slow with their recruitment, but they might need to get a move on after qualifying for the Champions League.
The Manchester Club needs to build a deeper and more competitive squad in order to compete on all fronts heading into the new season.
Man Utd eyeing full-back transfer
According to reports, Manchester United are one of the sides showing an interest in signing Galatasaray full-back Wilfred Singo in the summer transfer window.
The Ivorian defender has an agreement with the Turkish club that he can leave this summer if an interested club meets his asking price.
That fee is believed to be in the region of £35 million, and he’s also keen on making a move to the Premier League this summer.
Singo, described as a freak athlete by Como scout Ben Mattinson, has already rejected a move to Inter Milan due to the fact that he has ambitions of playing in England.
United face competition from a number of Premier League clubs for his signature, and it remains to be seen whether they will make a concrete move.
Right-back unlikely to be a priority
Signing a right-back before the end of the window doesn’t feel like it should be one of United’s biggest priorities.
United already have Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui as options in the right-back position, while Leny Yoro was also used in that position during pre-season.
United need to be focusing on strengthening other positions in the summer transfer window before bringing in a new right back.
The Red Devils have almost solved their midfield situation, and attention should be turning to adding more options in the final third for Carrick.
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Sports
Egypt Manager Finally Explains Why He Used ‘X’ Gesture vs Argentina
Egypt head coach Hossam Hassan has finally explained his actions after appearing to make the anti-racism gesture during his side’s 2026 World Cup defeat to Argentina in the last 16.
Hassan’s side took a 2-0 lead against the reigning world champions but lost the game 3-2 after conceding three goals in the 79th, 83rd and 92nd minutes.
French referee Francois Letexier made several controversial calls, with the help of VAR, including ruling out a 58th-minute goal for Egypt following a foul on Lisandro Martinez at the opposite end of the pitch as the start of the move.
Egypt were also denied a penalty moments before Enzo Fernandez sent Argentina through to the quarter-finals with his last-gasp goal.
Mostafa Ziko, scorer of Egypt’s second goal, claimed the tournament was “rigged” after the match, while Hassan was quoted as saying: “They want Argentina and Messi to stay in the World Cup for marketing.”
Pierluigi Collina, FIFA’s Chief Refereeing Officer, subsequently released a statement condemning the “unfounded allegations” which “have no place in our sport”.
The legendary Italian referee explained why both of the two most controversial decisions were made.
⚽
World Cup History Quiz
You scored
out of 20
Hassan Explains ‘X’ Gesture During Argentina Match
Towards the end of the heated encounter, with his side on the verge of leaving the tournament following their late capitulation, an emotional Hassan was seen crossing his arms in a move perceived by some as the anti-racism gesture. Watch the footage below:
FIFA have officially recognised the ‘X’ gesture as part of its protocol for reporting alleged racist incidents during matches since 2024.
Letexier appeared to speak to Hassan moments after the gesture was made, but no further action was taken, implying it hadn’t been the Egyptian manager’s intention to flag a potential racist incident.
The 59-year-old has now confirmed that his gesture was his way of telling the referee there had been a miscarriage of justice.
“The gesture wasn’t racist,” Hassan is quoted as saying by The Sun.
“I was telling [the ref], ‘you’re not being fair’.”
He added: “[Lionel Messi] came up to me and said, ‘why?’ Why? Why?’ And I don’t know what else.
“It was one of the few times Messi got into arguments during a match. And he ended up crying because he was having a hard time emotionally.
“We were a very tough team and we put them in a difficult position. I tried not to respond to him and to avoid any verbal friction between us, out of respect for his career.”
Argentina went on to beat Switzerland in the quarter-finals and now face England in the semis, hoping to secure their spot in their seventh World Cup final.
La Albiceleste will become the first team to successfully defend the World Cup since Brazil in 1962 if they beat England and then defeat Spain in Sunday’s final at the New York New Jersey Stadium.
Sports
UFC Release Statement as Allan Nascimento Dies Aged 34
The Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) have released a statement after fighter Allan Nascimento died suddenly aged 34.
The Brazilian mixed martial arts star was pronounced dead on Monday after being found unresponsive.
Nascimento, who had an overall career record of 22 wins (16 by way of submission) and seven defeats, last fought in June – a split-decision defeat to Mitch Raposo in Las Vegas.
Nicknamed “Puro Osso” – which translates as “skin and bones” – the flyweight from Sao Paolo, whose UFC journey began in 2021, has been described as a “skilled competitor and consummate professional”.
UFC Issue Statement
In an initial statement, the UFC said: “This morning, Monday, August 3rd, our beloved fighter and exemplary flyweight, Allan Nascimento, was found unresponsive after suffering an apparent heart attack in his sleep
“Despite the efforts of the responding medical team, he was pronounced deceased at the scene.Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Allan’s family, friends, teammates, and loved ones during this incredibly difficult time.”
The UFC later added: “It is with heavy hearts that UFC announces the passing of Brazilian flyweight Allan Nascimento, who was found unresponsive on the morning of Monday, August 3 after suffering an apparent heart attack; he was 34 years old.
“A member of the famed Chute Boxe Diego Lima team, Nascimento made six trips into the Octagon, amassing a 4-2 record while building a reputation as a skilled competitor and consummate professional. For his career, ‘Puro Osso’ compiled a 22-7 record with 16 of his wins coming by way of submission.
“A fixture on the doorstep of the Top 15, Nascimento was a constant presence alongside his teammates whenever they made the walk, sharing an especially close bond with former lightweight champion and current BMF titleholder Charles Oliveira.
“Our condolences go out to Nascimento’s family and friends, the Chute Boxe Diego Lima team, and all those impacted by this sudden, heartbreaking loss.”
Tributes Pour in For Allan Nascimento
Tributes have poured in from the MMA world. Former UFC champion Charles Oliveira wrote on social media: “Today I lost a brother that the fight game gave me.
“Thank you for always being by my side, for sharing the mats and the corner. I have nothing but gratitude for having you with me – in training, in the corner, and just hanging out. I love you, man; you’re a legend.”
UFC lightweight Elves Brener added: “Thank you for the wonderful journey, brother. You were always an incredible person, and today is an extremely sad day for all of us at Chute Boxe. I will carry you in my heart forever, champion.”
Meanwhile, Chute Boxing, where Nascimento trained, praised “a warrior, a friend, a dedicated competitor, and an extraordinary human being”.
They added: “Allan inspired others both on and off the mats with his determination, humility, respect, and fighting spirit.
“His presence will be missed beyond measure. Rest in peace, Allan; your name, your story, and your legacy will live on forever through our star.”
Sports
Tottenham Submit £47M Offer for Benfica Winger Andreas Schjelderup
Tottenham have submitted an offer to sign a new winger in the summer transfer window.
Spurs have been heavily focusing on strengthening in other areas of the pitch during the summer market, but attention is now turning to the forward line.
Tottenham have already brought in two midfielder options and three defenders, but they are yet to strengthen in the final third.
Roberto De Zerbi’s side are clearly investing heavily in the squad as they look to turn things around after a disappointing few years.
The North London club have finished 17th in the Premier League for two years on the bounce, but they did show signs of heading in the right direction under De Zerbi last campaign.
Tottenham submit new winger offer
According to reports, Tottenham have submitted an offer in the region of £47 million to sign Benfica winger Andreas Schjelderup in the summer transfer window.
Spurs are offering around £39 million up front, but Benfica are hoping for around £43 million as the guaranteed fee.
Effectively, Tottenham have met the asking price of Schjelderup, but they just need to alter the payment terms in order to agree a deal with Benfica.
It remains to be seen whether Schjelderup, described as a ‘diamond’, is keen on a move to Spurs in the summer transfer window, but Tottenham do appear to be close to agreeing a fee.
Fees correct prior to summer 2026
All 10 found — excellent!
Tottenham prioritising forward move
Tottenham are clearly pushing to bring in a new forward before the end of the summer transfer window.
Reports have claimed that they have opened talks with Liverpool over a potential move to sign Dutch forward Cody Gakpo. The former PSV man can play in multiple positions in attack, and it makes sense that De Zerbe is trying to poach him this summer.
It’s unclear where De Zerbi would plan on playing Gakpo. The Dutchman is capable of playing on the left side or through the middle of the attack as a striker or number 10.
Sports
Manchester United Eye £35m Galatasaray Full-Back Wilfred Singo
Manchester United are being linked with a move to sign a new full-back in the summer transfer window as they look to improve Michael Carrick’s squad.
The Red Devils have only strengthened in the midfield department so far in the summer transfer window, bringing in Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans from Chelsea and Aston Villa, respectively.
United have also secured the signature of goalkeeper Karl Darlow, but he’s likely to come in and be a backup option for Carrick.
Outside of that, United have been fairly slow with their recruitment, but they might need to get a move on after qualifying for the Champions League.
The Manchester Club needs to build a deeper and more competitive squad in order to compete on all fronts heading into the new season.
Man Utd eyeing full-back transfer
According to reports, Manchester United are one of the sides showing an interest in signing Galatasaray full-back Wilfred Singo in the summer transfer window.
The Ivorian defender has an agreement with the Turkish club that he can leave this summer if an interested club meets his asking price.
That fee is believed to be in the region of £35 million, and he’s also keen on making a move to the Premier League this summer.
Singo, described as a freak athlete by Como scout Ben Mattinson, has already rejected a move to Inter Milan due to the fact that he has ambitions of playing in England.
United face competition from a number of Premier League clubs for his signature, and it remains to be seen whether they will make a concrete move.
Right-back unlikely to be a priority
Signing a right-back before the end of the window doesn’t feel like it should be one of United’s biggest priorities.
United already have Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui as options in the right-back position, while Leny Yoro was also used in that position during pre-season.
United need to be focusing on strengthening other positions in the summer transfer window before bringing in a new right back.
The Red Devils have almost solved their midfield situation, and attention should be turning to adding more options in the final third for Carrick.
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