GENEVA (AP) — Two national soccer teams whose countries are involved in wars. A two-time FIFA world player of the year aiming for possibly his last tournament. A team that went 31 years failing to win a European Championship qualifying game. The plotlines are vivid for those hoping to earn one of three places in the 24-team lineup at Euro 2024 that are being decided over the next week in qualifying playoffs. Twelve nations set out on Thursday in four-team knockout brackets. They must advance thr
In today's edition: Mookie moves to shortstop, Anthony Edwards throws down the dunk of the year, Ovechkin hits the 20-goal mark (again!), soccer's version of madness, and more.
BRUSSELS (AP) — Romelu Lukaku will miss Belgium's friendly in Ireland this weekend because of a groin problem. Lukaku missed a Europa League match last Thursday because of a recurring hip injury, then played 85 minutes on Sunday in Roma's 1-0 win against Sassuolo in Serie A. Belgium said on Tuesday that Lukaku was not fit to face Ireland “due to a slightly overloaded groin.” Belgium meets Ireland on Saturday in a warmup for the European Championship. It will then take on England next Tuesday. Lu