Your Guardian sport weekend: Women’s cricket, Super League Grand Final and World Cup qualifiers

Augusto Palacios has shared valuable insights with Bafana Bafana as they prepare for the crucial World Cup qualifiers. His experience and advice come at a pivotal moment, as the team's aspirations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are on the line. This guidance could be instrumental in helping the players navigate the challenges ahead and boost their chances of success.

The excitement is building as the Algerian national team prepares for its World Cup 2026 qualifiers against Uganda. With the tournament being hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, fans are eager to secure their tickets. This match is crucial for Algeria as they aim to solidify their place in the prestigious event, making it a significant moment for both the team and its supporters.

Barcelona is facing a tough situation as they lose another key player to injury just weeks before the highly anticipated El Clasico match. The player, a star for Spain, has been ruled out of the upcoming World Cup qualifiers due to a calf problem, raising concerns for both the national team and Barcelona. This injury could significantly impact Barcelona's performance in the crucial match against their rivals, making it a critical moment for the team.

Senegal's impressive performance against South Sudan in the World Cup 2026 qualifiers showcased their strength and determination, as they secured a dominant 5-0 victory. This win not only boosts their chances of advancing in the tournament but also highlights their attacking prowess, making them a team to watch in the upcoming matches.

FIFA is contemplating the possibility of postponing the World Cup, a decision that could significantly alter the global football calendar. This potential change, led by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, raises questions about the future of international football events and their scheduling. Fans and players alike are eager to see how this might impact the sport, making it a crucial topic for discussion in the football community.

Côte d'Ivoire showcased their football prowess with an impressive 7-0 victory over Seychelles in the World Cup 2026 qualifiers. This dominant performance not only highlights their strength in the tournament but also boosts their confidence as they aim for a successful campaign. Such a decisive win is crucial for Côte d'Ivoire as they seek to establish themselves as a formidable contender on the world stage.

In an exhilarating match, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang scored all four goals to lead Gabon to a crucial victory in their World Cup qualifying campaign. His remarkable performance not only showcased his talent but also kept Gabon's hopes alive for the tournament. However, the excitement took a turn when he received a red card, turning him from hero to villain in a matter of moments. This incident highlights the highs and lows of competitive sports, reminding fans of the unpredictable nature of football.

In an exhilarating match, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang showcased his incredible talent by scoring all four goals for Gabon in their World Cup qualifying victory. However, his celebration was cut short as he received a red card, turning his moment of glory into a bittersweet ending. This performance not only highlights Aubameyang's skills but also keeps Gabon's hopes alive for the World Cup, making it a significant event for the team and its supporters.

In an impressive display, Parma midfielder Benjamin Cremaschi helped the USA secure a decisive 3-0 victory over Italy in the U-20 World Cup, scoring two goals himself. This match not only highlights Cremaschi's talent but also marks a significant moment for the USA team as they advance in the tournament, showcasing their growing prowess in youth football.

In a crucial World Cup qualifying match, Nigeria's Super Eagles face Lesotho, buoyed by a recent points deduction for South Africa that could open the door for Nigeria's chances. This game is pivotal for Nigeria as they seek to capitalize on this opportunity and secure their spot in the World Cup. Fans are eager to see if the Super Eagles can rise to the occasion and deliver a strong performance.

Algeria's official qualification for the World Cup has sparked excitement, with football legends Zinedine Zidane and Houssem Aouar sharing their reactions. This achievement not only highlights Algeria's growing prowess in international football but also brings hope and pride to its fans. The team's journey to the World Cup is a testament to their hard work and determination, making this moment significant for the nation.

Top German snowboarder Ramona Hofmeister remains hopeful about making a comeback for the 2026 Winter Olympics, despite suffering an ankle fracture. Her determination is inspiring, especially as she is a four-time overall World Cup winner. This story matters because it highlights the resilience of athletes and the challenges they face in their pursuit of Olympic dreams.

Arizona State's head coach Kenny Dillingham has indicated that starting quarterback Sam Leavitt is unlikely to play in the upcoming game against the Utah Utes, describing his potential return as requiring a 'mini miracle.' This situation poses a significant challenge for the Sun Devils as they prepare to face a tough opponent without their key player, which could impact their performance and playoff aspirations.

Mike Greenberg recently issued an apology on behalf of the NFL after the Philadelphia Eagles executed their controversial 'tush push' play four consecutive times during a game against the New York Giants. This play has sparked debates about its legality and sportsmanship, highlighting the ongoing discussions around player safety and game strategy in the NFL. Greenberg's comments reflect the league's awareness of fan concerns and the need for clarity on such tactics, making this a significant moment in the conversation about the future of football.

The Milwaukee Brewers are struggling, having lost their last two games after allowing multiple runs in the first inning. In Game 4, they faced off against Chicago Cubs pitcher Matthew Boyd, who previously struggled against them but managed to dominate this time. This decline in performance raises concerns about the Brewers' ability to compete effectively, especially as they head deeper into the season.

Skip Schumaker has been named the new manager of the Texas Rangers, stepping in after Bruce Bochy's departure. Fans were eager to see who would take the helm, and Schumaker's appointment brings a fresh perspective to the team. His experience as a former player and his understanding of the game are expected to energize the Rangers as they aim for success in the upcoming season.

In a surprising turn of events, a wide receiver from the Class of 2027 has decommitted from the Penn State football program following a disappointing loss to UCLA. This decision comes as the team, led by head coach James Franklin and quarterback Drew Allar, was expected to have a strong season. The decommitment raises concerns about the team's future recruitment and overall morale, especially with a challenging schedule ahead in the Big Ten.

The San Francisco 49ers are considering starting Adrian Martinez as their quarterback for Week 6, prompting defensive coordinator Robert Saleh to provide insights about him. This situation is significant as it highlights the team's adaptability and the potential impact of a new player stepping into a crucial role during the season.