Your Guardian sport weekend: rugby league Ashes, Lionesses v Brazil and F1’s title tussle

In an international friendly match, Brazil defeated England 2-1 at the Etihad Stadium. This game was notable not only for the scoreline but also for the absence of defender Millie Bright, who recently announced her retirement from international football. The match highlights the ongoing evolution of both teams as they prepare for future competitions, making it an important event for fans and players alike.

The first Test of the rugby league Ashes between England and Australia is underway at Wembley, with live updates highlighting key moments and player performances. This match is significant as it showcases the historic rivalry between the two nations in rugby league, drawing attention from fans and sports analysts alike.

The 2025 F1 Mexico City Grand Prix is set to be an exciting event this Sunday, and fans are eager to catch all the action. With a full weekend of races and events planned, this Grand Prix not only showcases top-tier motorsport but also highlights Mexico City's vibrant culture and enthusiasm for racing. It's a great opportunity for fans to engage with the sport and experience the thrill of Formula 1 in a unique setting.

Oscar Piastri has expressed surprise at Max Verstappen's swift return to contention in the Formula One title race, a sentiment shared by Verstappen himself. As they head into the Mexican Grand Prix, Piastri and his McLaren teammate Lando Norris are focused on the competition, highlighting the intensity of the ongoing three-way battle for the championship. This development is significant as it adds an unexpected twist to the season, showcasing the unpredictability of F1 racing.

Brazil is gearing up for the 2027 World Cup by focusing on a youthful squad with an average age of just 24. After recently winning their ninth Copa América Femenina, the team is set to face England and Italy in preparation for the upcoming tournament. This proactive approach highlights Brazil's commitment to nurturing young talent and building a competitive team for the World Cup, which is just 20 months away. It's an exciting time for Brazilian football as they look to blend experience with youth.

In a surprising turn, Nick Saban, the renowned Alabama football coach, has expressed admiration for Vanderbilt's recent performance, stating he's 'jumping on the Vanderbilt bandwagon.' This shift highlights a growing respect for Vanderbilt's program, which could influence recruiting and competition within the SEC. Saban's endorsement may boost Vanderbilt's visibility and morale, making it a noteworthy moment in college football.

Auburn football's promising sophomore receiver Cam Coleman faced an injury scare during the game against Arkansas, leaving the field in the first quarter with a right ankle injury. This incident is concerning, especially since Coleman had previously struggled with injuries in his freshman year. Despite the setback, he managed to score a highlight-reel touchdown before exiting, showcasing his potential. The situation is being closely monitored, as his performance is crucial for Auburn's season.

The Kansas City Chiefs are set to face the Washington Commanders in an exciting Monday Night Football matchup for Week 8. While the Commanders are welcoming back some offensive talent, they will be without Jayden Daniels. The Chiefs, on the other hand, are riding high as one of the league's top teams. This game is significant as it showcases the Chiefs' strong performance and the Commanders' attempts to regain momentum, making it a must-watch for football fans.

In an exciting moment for Northwestern football, Caleb Komolafe made a stunning 56-yard touchdown run, tying the game against Nebraska. This play not only showcased Komolafe's impressive skills but also energized the Wildcats' fans, highlighting the competitive spirit of college football. Such moments are crucial as they can shift the momentum of the game and boost team morale.

In an exciting turn of events, Purdue's Ryan Browne connected with Nitro Tuggle for a crucial 14-yard touchdown, allowing the team to regain the lead against Rutgers. This moment not only highlights Browne's skill as a quarterback but also showcases Tuggle's ability to make impactful plays. Such performances are vital for Purdue as they aim to strengthen their position in the league and build momentum for the rest of the season.

The Portland Blazers are facing a challenging moment after the arrest of head coach Chauncey Billups in connection with a gambling investigation. In response, general manager Joe Cronin has appointed assistant coach Thiago Splitter as the interim head coach. This sudden change has left the team in shock, highlighting the impact of off-court issues on team dynamics and performance. It's a critical time for the Blazers as they navigate this unexpected situation and aim to maintain their focus on the season ahead.