World Cup qualifying news, Potter’s big Sweden bow and more – matchday live

A new global rugby tournament has been officially launched, featuring teams from the Six Nations and the Rugby Championship. The tournament will see England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, France, and Italy compete against Argentina, Australia, New Zealand, and South Africa, along with invited teams Fiji and Japan. This initiative is described by organizers as a 'tectonic shift in the sport', with the potential to redefine rugby's future, according to Tom Harrison, CEO of Six Nations Rugby.

Erling Haaland continued his impressive form by scoring two goals for Norway in a 4-1 victory over Italy. This performance further solidifies his reputation as a top striker, contributing significantly to his team's success. The match took place on October 1, 2023, and showcased Haaland's striking prowess on an international stage.

Scotland's rugby team has been criticized for its mental fragility following a recent match where they squandered a 21-0 lead to lose. The performance has raised questions about the coaching capabilities of Gregor Townsend, with calls for the Scottish Rugby Union to reconsider his position. The team's inability to maintain a lead has sparked disappointment among fans and analysts alike.

Manchester City is reportedly set to compete with Juventus and Real Madrid for the signing of Spanish midfielder Hugo Viana. The young player has drawn comparisons to Pedri, a notable talent in Spain. As City plans for the January 2026 transfer window, their interest in Viana highlights their strategy to bolster their squad with emerging talents, despite their current strong lineup.

Mary Fowler, a forward for the Matildas and Manchester City, has opened up about her mental health struggles in a newly released memoir. The 22-year-old athlete detailed her experiences with depression and self-harm, which began after she moved to Europe early in her career. Currently recovering from a serious knee injury, Fowler is expected to return to the field in January ahead of the Asian Cup.

Tony Galvin, the former Tottenham and Republic of Ireland winger, is recovering from a stroke at the age of 69. The club announced his health status, expressing best wishes for his recovery. Galvin made 273 appearances for Spurs during the 1980s and won two FA Cups and a UEFA Cup, contributing significantly to the team's success during that period.

Scotland's rugby team faced a disappointing defeat against Argentina, highlighting their vulnerabilities once again. The match showcased Scotland's inability to maintain a strong lead, as they collapsed after initially leading 21-0. This loss adds to their struggles in the Autumn series, raising concerns about their performance ahead of crucial upcoming matches.

Argentina staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Scotland 33-24 in a thrilling rugby match. After trailing 21-0 in the second half, Argentina capitalized on a loose pass from Finn Russell, leading to a series of five tries in the final 24 minutes. Santi Carreras played a pivotal role in orchestrating this turnaround, showcasing the team's resilience and skill.