tactical

After a letdown against Spain, Italy is itching for redemption. They clash with Croatia on Monday, eyeing a slot in the round of 16. Italy's head honcho Luciano Spalletti confessed he missed the mark during their previous match, but he's set on amending that against Croatia. In their Thursday skirmish, Spain clinched the apex of Group B with a slender 1-0 triumph, courtesy of Riccardo Calafiori's unfortunate own goal at the 55th minute. Despite the tight scoreboard, the Azzurri lagged, notching a mere four attempts at goal.…

The commencement of the Emma Hayes epoch saw the US Women's national team decisively conquering South Korea in Colorado. The squad displayed lethal precision under her guidance, overwhelming their opponents with a 4-0 thumping. Hayes kicked off her tenure with the Stars and Stripes on a triumphant note as Mallory Swanson and Tierna Davidson netted two goals each at Dick's Sporting Goods Park. Leaving behind a dazzling 12-year tenure with Chelsea, where she led the team to its fifth consecutive Women's Super League crown,…

Carlo Ancelotti defended his choice to replace Toni Kroos during Real Madrid's 2-2 draw with Bayern Munich in the Champions League semi-final. The thrilling first leg at Allianz Arena ended in a tie, with Vinicius Junior's penalty saving the day. Vinicius scored the opening goal in the 24th minute, receiving Kroos' brilliant through pass. Kroos made 15 crucial passes in the first half, but was subbed out for Brahim Diaz as Bayern surged ahead with goals from Sane and Kane. Ancelotti explained that Bellingham had cramps, and…