Chess outsiders triumph at World Cup in Goa and battle for Candidates spots

Seismic activity was recorded in Scotland as fans celebrated the national football team's qualification for the World Cup for the first time since 1998. The Tartan Army's exuberance followed a thrilling 4-2 victory over Denmark, marking a significant achievement in Scottish football history.

Uefa has issued an apology after instructing Scotland fans to remove videos celebrating the national team's qualification for the World Cup, claiming the clips violated copyright laws. The decision sparked backlash among fans who were expressing their joy over a significant achievement, marking Scotland's first World Cup qualification since 1998.

Jessie Diggins, the most decorated American cross-country skier, has announced her retirement at the end of the season. As the world’s No. 1 ranked skier, she will compete in her fourth Olympics at Milano-Cortina and finish her career at the World Cup finals in Lake Placid. Diggins has achieved three overall World Cup titles, three distance globes, and four Olympic medals, significantly impacting the sport in the US.

Wales will host Bosnia-Herzegovina and Northern Ireland will travel to Italy in the semi-finals of the World Cup play-offs. This draw sets the stage for both teams to compete for a place in the 2026 World Cup.

Scotland fans are beginning to plan celebrations following the men's national team's qualification for the World Cup. This marks a significant achievement as it is the first time Scotland has qualified for the tournament since 1998, igniting excitement among supporters who are exploring travel options to North America for the event.