Marco Bianchi 
Noah Anyadike, aged 15 years and 98 days, made his debut for Cardiff City in the EFL Cup, becoming the youngest player ever in the competition’s history. The Bluebirds lost 2‑1 to Norwich City, and Anyadike was forced off in the second half with a cramp. Manager Brian Barry‑Murphy praised the youngster’s talent and stressed the need to protect and develop him further.
The IFA said it is “time for change” at FIFA and will not back Gianni Infantino’s bid for a fourth term. The decision follows criticism of Infantino’s aborted plan to sell a 21% stake in FIFA’s commercial operations, which UEFA threatened to boycott.
Swiss tennis star Stan Wawrinka, a 2016 US Open champion, announced he will retire at the end of 2026. He expressed gratitude to the US Open and New York despite not receiving a wildcard for a final Grand Slam appearance.
Linfield chairman Roy McGivern said manager David Healy was absolutely right to call out the personal and vile abuse he received from supporters after the team’s 3-0 loss to Ballymena United. McGivern also highlighted the club’s financial difficulties following an early European exit and said discussions are underway for outside investment.
Ireland’s women’s rugby team will compete in the WXV Global Series this autumn. Coach Scott Bemand highlighted the selection of seven uncapped players who impressed in the Interprovincial Championship, adding fresh talent to the 36‑player squad ahead of tests against the USA, Japan and South Africa.
Scott Jamieson claimed victory at the Nexo Championship on the Trump International Golf Links course, finishing 11 under par and two strokes ahead of Matthew Jordan. The 42‑year‑old’s win marked his second DP World Tour triumph, ending a 14‑year gap since his 2012 title.
Manchester United teenager Jacob Devaney has moved to Scottish Premiership side Hibernian on a loan deal that includes an option to buy. The 19‑year‑old, a Republic of Ireland Under‑21 international, previously played for St Mirren and featured in United’s pre‑season games.
Manchester City striker Erling Haaland debuted the new season with a dramatic buzzcut, shedding his long blonde hair. He shared the change on social media, joking about the haircut and receiving playful reactions from teammates and former colleagues as City prepare to face Bournemouth.
Australia recovered from a shock defeat in Darwin to dominate Bangladesh in the second Test at Mackay, winning by an innings and 51 runs. Mitchell Starc claimed a ten‑wicket haul, earning Player of the Match and Series honors, while the team posted a first‑innings lead of 146. The victory leveled the series 1‑1 and set up a three‑match tour of South Africa later in the year.
Adam Brooks delivered his first Irish Premiership hat‑trick, guiding Crusaders to a 3‑2 victory over Portadown at Seaview. The performance has prompted manager Declan Caddell to label Brooks a potential new Scottish sensation for the club. Portadown manager David Jeffrey lamented the fine margins that have cost his side early season points.