MANILA, Philippines – After a fiery, foul-filled start to his Maharlika Pilipinas Basketball League (MPBL) debut, Mandaluyong El Tigre’s Ray Parks came back to display his versatility.

The 6-foot-4 forward-guard dropped a double-double of 13 points and a new league-record 15 assists in El Tigre’s 71-61 triumph over the tenacious Zamboanga Valientes at the Imus Sports Complex in Cavite on Saturday, June 23.

The two-time Asean Basketball League (ABL) local MVP erased the previous record of Paolo Hubalde, who dished out 14 assists for Valenzuela Classic during their 97-80 win against the Bataan Defenders (now Risers) last February 9.

Parks was in full control of the offense for most of the first half which carried on to the second, as evidenced by his lefty tomahawk jam on the break to give Mandaluyong a 15-point lead, 46-31, with 6:35 left in the quarter.

However, the fiery Valientes rallied all the way back with a 14-0 run thanks to key triples by Von Lanete and Noy Javier to inch within one, 45-46.

But Parks and former De La Salle University (DLSU) forward Prince Rivero took matters into their own hands, responding with an 11-2 attack that saw Rivero lay-in 4 straight shots from Parks’ hand-offs, 55-45.

The rest of Mandaluyong clamped down on defense after that as Zamboanga ultimately failed to get their second straight win.

Rivero became the primary beneficiary of Parks’ pinpoint passing, ending the night with a game-high 18 points and 8 rebounds on 9/14 (64%) shooting.

On the other end, it was ex-Barako Bull pro Reed Juntilla who shouldered the Valientes offense with 16 points, 5 boards and 5 assists on an 8/18 (44%) shooting clip.

After the game, a more thankful Parks gave all the credit to his teammates, who of course led him to the league assist record by converting their buckets.

“Testament lang po talaga yun sa mga teammates ko,” he said. “Nagse-stay back sila after practice, shooting. Talagang tiwala lang [ako] sa mga teammates ko na ina-knock down nila yung mga tira. It was a tough battle talaga.”

(It’s just a testament to my teammates. They stay after practice, shooting. I just trust them all to knock down their shots. It was really a tough battle.)

Parks was alert and mature this time around, given how he only turned the ball over once. It was in stark contrast to the sluggish and frustrated outing he had in his losing debut against the Muntinlupa Cagers, where he had 6 turnovers on 4 straight offensive fouls despite the 21-point, 10-rebound double-double.

This prompted him to sound off, saying “they don’t want me here in this league,” before getting a stern warning from commissioner Kenneth Duremdes.

Tonight, however, he just thanked the fans and wished them all a safe trip home.

“Isang karangalan talagang makapaglaro sa harap niyo,” he said. “God bless po. Ingat po kayo pauwi.”

(It’s really an honor playing in front of you. God bless and take care going home.)

And of course, he ended the night with a favorite quote: “Never say die.”

 The Scores:

 Mandaluyong (71) – Rivero 18, Parks 13, Boholano 9, Abrigo 8, Lozada 8, Bonsubre 6, Torres 3, Javillonar 2, Cauilan 2, Alabanza 2, Vidal 0, Cunanan 0, Andaya 0

Zamboanga (61) – Juntilla 16, Onde 14, Orera 9, Javier 7, Lanete 6, Berame 5, Miraflores 2, Parreno 0, Guiyab 0, Rublico 0, Esa 0, Ferrer 0

Quarter Scores: 23-10, 40-26, 57-47, 71-61

– Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – A Filipino got on the ONE Championship record books, but it’s one we’d rather forget.

China’s Li Kai Wen delivered a devastating one-punch knockout to Pinoy fighter Rodian Menchavez at the 10-second mark of the first round in their Pinnacle of Power featherweight bout in Macau on Saturday, June 23.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Li Kai Wen scores the fastest KO in ONE featherweight history with a thunderous  at 0:10 of the first round! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PinnacleOfPower?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PinnacleOfPower</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Macau?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Macau</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MartialArts?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MartialArts</a> <a href="https://t.co/YWsDHEPrx7">pic.twitter.com/YWsDHEPrx7</a></p>&mdash; ONE Championship (@ONEChampionship) <a href="https://twitter.com/ONEChampionship/status/1010505249079975937?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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That right there is the fastest KO in ONE Championship featherweight history.

Menchavez drops to 5-2 in his MMA win-loss record while Li rises to 8-4.

However, at just 23 years of age, the promising Filipino featherweight has a lot of time to redeem himself. His moniker is not “The Redeemer” just for show, after all.

Menchavez, a product of the Catalan Fighting System, found early success fighting out of the Universal Reality Combat Championship (URCC) promotion, where he won 3 straight fights. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – F2 Logistics' experience came in full show as the Cargo Movers spoiled the debut of Foton's prized recruit Bea de Leon in the 2018 Philippine Superliga (PSL) Invitational Conference.

The Cargo Movers downed the Tornadoes in straight sets, 25-21, 25-21, 25-14, in the conference opener on Saturday, June 23 at the Smart Araneta Coliseum.

Kim Dy led the Cargo Movers with 10 points, including 3 blocks as Ara Galang also fired 7 of her 9 points off attacks.

Team captain Cha Cruz-Behag pumped in 8 points and Mary Joy Baron had the same output, the last on a kill that put the Cargo Movers at match point before Kim Fajardo wrapped it up. 

De Leon, the former Ateneo standout who debuted with 7 points, beefed up the Tornadoes' towering lineup that includes sisters Dindin and Jaja Santiago.

But the Cargo Movers, who finished second to champion Petron last conference, flashed their experience all game with Dawn Macandili also taking care of the floor defense.

Jaja Santiago led the Tornadoes with 12 points and Jennylyn Reyes also poured in 8 points. – Carla Molina/Rappler.com

MOSCOW, Russia – Romelu Lukaku drew level with Cristiano Ronaldo at the top of the World Cup goalscoring charts on Saturday, June 23, scoring twice as Belgium moved to the brink of the last 16 after a 5-2 romp against Tunisia.

The victory leaves the Red Devils on top of Group G with two wins ahead of their clash on Thursday against England, who will play Panama on Sunday. 

After also scoring twice in the opening 3-0 win against Panama, Manchester United's Lukaku showed clinical finishing with two first-half goals in Moscow, matching Ronaldo's tally in Russia.

Not to be outdone, Belgium captain Eden Hazard scored in either half, including an early penalty at the Spartak Stadium, before substitute Michy Batshuayi added their 5th.

Tunisia's consolation goals came from defender Dylan Bronn and captain Wahbi Khazri.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Not only has there been a goal in every <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldCup</a> match, but <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BELTUN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BELTUN</a> had the most goals in a single match so far!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BEL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BEL</a>    <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TUN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TUN</a>  <a href="https://t.co/y3ptKp7pQl">pic.twitter.com/y3ptKp7pQl</a></p>&mdash; FIFA World Cup  (@FIFAWorldCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/FIFAWorldCup/status/1010523434848342016?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The Belgians – considered one of the dark horses to win the tournament – were criticized by coach Roberto Martinez for starting slowly against Panama in their first group match but flew out of the blocks in Moscow.

Hazard – having been on the receiving end of some bruising tackles in Belgium's opener – was sent tumbling after just 5 minutes but converted the penalty to open his Russian account.

Midfielder Ferjani Sassi picked up an early booking for complaining when Tunisia's appeals for a penalty fell on deaf ears, just before Belgium added its second goal.

Ali Maaloul's weak pass on the halfway line was collected by Dries Mertens, who sprinted away and put Lukaku clear.

The striker coolly hit his shot inside the far post, just past the outstretched glove of Tunisia keeper Farouk Ben Mustapha, in the 16th minute.

Tunisia responded two minutes later, Bronn leaping highest to head home a free-kick from his skipper Khazri on 18 minutes, only to be later carried off after landing awkwardly following a collision.

With half-time approaching, the Belgians grabbed their 3rd goal.

Midfield maestro

After earlier squandering two clear chances created by Kevin De Bruyne, Lukaku converted his 3rd opportunity just before the half-time whistle.

Thomas Meunier put him in behind the defense and Lukaku tucked his shot away, celebrating with De Bruyne, who started the move. 

The Manchester City midfield maestro turned provider again after the break for Hazard.

The Chelsea star sprinted onto De Bruyne's lofted pass, held off two defenders, rounded keeper Ben Mustapha and tapped home Belgium's 4th goal in the 51st minute.

With one eye on the England game, Martinez took off Lukaku, then Hazard as the half wore on and for the final 22 minutes brought on Batshuayi, who could have scored five.

The Borussia Dortmund forward had a chance cleared off the line, was twice denied by Ben Mustapha's saves and hit the crossbar, finally converting a cross for Belgium's fifth goal.

Tunisia captain Khazri grabbed their second goal just before the final whistle of their second defeat in Russia.– Rappler.com

SOCHI, Russia – Toni Kroos rescued Germany's World Cup hopes in dramatic fashion, curling in a stunning free-kick deep into injury time to seal a 2-1 win against Sweden on Saturday, June 23.

Germany's late, late show keeps Joachim Loew's  squad on course to be the first team to retain the title in 56 years but their fate is still not entirely in their own hands.

"We never lost hope. I think there was a bit of luck there with the goal scored in stoppage time, but it was a result of our belief in ourselves," said Loew.

"Despite the adversity, the team kept their cool and turned it around."

The defending champions were in desperate trouble when Ola Toivonen lifted the ball over Manuel Neuer to put the Swedes ahead in the first half in Sochi after Kroos gave the ball away.

Germany, looking far sharper than they did in their opening defeat against Mexico, piled forward and eventually earned their reward when Marco Reus reacted quickly to turn the ball in shortly after the interval.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">When you bag a stoppage-time stunner at the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldCup</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ToniKroos?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ToniKroos</a><br><br> TV listings  <a href="https://t.co/xliHcxWvEO">https://t.co/xliHcxWvEO</a> <br> Highlights  <a href="https://t.co/LOdKDX2Cwn">https://t.co/LOdKDX2Cwn</a> <a href="https://t.co/3WEnY29nGz">pic.twitter.com/3WEnY29nGz</a></p>&mdash; FIFA World Cup  (@FIFAWorldCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/FIFAWorldCup/status/1010642796955537411?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Despite incessant pressure, Loew's men could not find the goal they craved as time ticked away and Germany's task was made more difficult when key defender Jerome Boateng was sent off in the 82nd minute for a second yellow card.

But Kroos had other ideas, stepping up in the 95th minute to curl a free-kick from the left edge of the penalty area into the top corner, beating the despairing dive of Robin Olsen, who had been outstanding in the Swedish goal.

"Of course, the first goal (by Sweden) was my fault. When you put in 400 passes in a game, then one or two won't go where they should," said Kroos.

"Now we have to recover and we don't have much time before we have to beat (South) Korea, when we have to play convincingly."

Germany – level with Sweden on 3 points, with Mexico on 6 points – must now beat South Korea in Kazan on Wednesday and hope the other result in Group F goes their way.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Group F suddenly looks a bit different after that late winner...<br><br>1) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MEX?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MEX</a> <br>2) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GER?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GER</a> <br>3) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SWE?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SWE</a> <br>4) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KOR?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KOR</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/wKprPjF2on">pic.twitter.com/wKprPjF2on</a></p>&mdash; FIFA World Cup  (@FIFAWorldCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/FIFAWorldCup/status/1010614197317758982?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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The defending champions put in a nervous display after a barrage of criticism following defeat to Mexico. 

Kroos took a thinly-veiled dig at the German media and former players who had been sharply critical of the team over the last 6 days. 

"We were criticised a lot, justifiably so in part, and a lot of people in Germany would have been pleased if we had gone out today," said Kroos, who admitted there is still room for improvement.

"Overall, we once again had phases where we played really well and didn't use our chances."

Reus, whose goal sparked Germany's fight back at the start of the second-half.

"Toni's shot, what can you say about that?" said Reus.

"At this World Cup, a lot of goals have come at the end (of games) and today luck was on our side.

"We started well, but didn't have that many clear chances.

"Sweden did well, were very compact and tight in defense.

"It’s hard to say why we made the error, Toni made the mistake, but smoothed things out and did everything right in the end."

Germany forward Thomas Mueller said the holders were rewarded despite having their backs to the wall for most of the match.

"We put everything into it and were rewarded at the end," beamed Mueller.

"True, we were a man down, but we tried, didn't give up and said that we had to stay with it until the last second.

"Sometimes you get your reward." – Rappler.com

ROSTOV-ON-DON, Russia – Mexico laid one foot in the World Cup's last 16 and left South Korea on the brink of elimination after goals from Javier Hernandez and Carlos Vela clinched a 2-1 victory in Rostov on Saturday, June 23. 

Hernandez became the first Mexican player to score 50 goals for his country, after 104 appearances, with Vela earlier opening the scoring through yet another penalty kick. 

Mexico leads Group F on 6 points after two games, having backed up their shock victory against Germany with another display to suggest they can go deep in this tournament. 

"Sometimes against teams that have less of a footballing tradition than the biggest nations, you can tend to rest on your laurels and lose concentration," said Mexico coach Juan Carlos Osorio.

"But it was a deserved victory. We are very happy and we share that with the whole of the country."

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr"> 50 goals for <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Mex?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Mex</a> (and their top scorer)<br> El Tri&#39;s joint highest <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldCup</a> goalscorer<br> Scored in three different World Cups<br><br>“He’s got all these records, but that’s not all.&quot;<a href="https://twitter.com/CH14_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@CH14_</a> is more than just a goal machine for <a href="https://twitter.com/miseleccionmxEN?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@miseleccionmxEN</a><br><a href="https://t.co/8F3tFwJvVl">https://t.co/8F3tFwJvVl</a> <a href="https://t.co/7FfOzCYQkl">pic.twitter.com/7FfOzCYQkl</a></p>&mdash; FIFA World Cup  (@FIFAWorldCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/FIFAWorldCup/status/1010647449558495233?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 23, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Son Heung-min's stunning long-range effort in stoppage time gave South Korea a glimmer of hope but it was too little too late. 

South Korea, beaten by a Sweden penalty in their first match, had their chances but again lacked cutting edge up front. Yet to register a single point in Russia, they are left needing a miracle to progress. 

After 28 games at the World Cup, there have now been 14 spot-kicks, 11 of them converted, and there could be little complaint about this one, coming after a blatant handball by Jang Hyun-soo, Vela stepping up to convert.  

In temperatures around 35 degrees Celsius, Mexico was rewarded for another controlled performance that combined possession in midfield with pace and penetration in attack. Hirving Lozano, the match-winner against Germany, was excellent again in particular. 

Before their opening goal, however, it was South Korea that created the better chances. 

Only a brilliant saving tackle from Lozano denied Lee Yong tapping in at the back post before Son saw 3 quick-fire shots come to nothing, the first two blocked, the last skewed wide. 

But Mexico's penalty in the 27th minute was clear. Jang tried to block Andres Guardado's cross but inexplicably slid with his arm outstretched above him and the ball struck the defender's hand.

Vela was made to wait by goalkeeper Jo Hyeon-woo, who played for time by swigging his water and chatting to his team-mates, but there was no mistake. Vela slid home. 

The game became more open in the second half as South Korea perhaps pushed too hard too soon, and it was little surprise when Mexico doubled their lead.

They were fortunate not to concede a foul for a clear trip by Hector Herrera in the build-up but Lozano found Hernandez and the striker did the rest. The former Manchester United striker's dummy-shot fooled the lunging Jang before a scuffed finish rolled past Jo.  

Son should have capitalized on a Rafael Marquez mistake late on but made amends in the 93rd minute with a fabulous effort that soared into the corner. Mexico, however, held on. –Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – The Philippines was on the losing side of the equation at Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) Fight Night 132 in Singapore on Saturday night, June 23, as Filipino fighters Rolando Dy and Jenel Lausa were both unsuccessful in their respective bouts.

But Dy –  the son of Filipino boxing great Rolando Navarrete – still won US $50,000 (P2.6 million) as a consolation prize for delivering the Fight of the Night along with Kiwi winner “Sugar” Shane Young. (READ: Rolando Dy, son of boxing legend Navarette, makes own path in MMA)

The 26-year-old Dy (9-7-1, 1NC) fell victim to a younger Young via ground-and-pound TKO at the 4:40 mark of round 2.

Young and Dy, along with fighters Ovince Saint Preux and Song Yadong, each earned US $50,000 fight-night bonuses for winning Fights of the Night.

The featherweight bout was among the preliminary cards of the event at the Singapore Indoor Stadium.

Lausa (7-5-0) fell to the Japanese veteran Ulka Sasaki (21-5-2) at the 4:04 mark of the second round by way of the ever-deadly rear-naked choke. 

The 29-year-old fighter from Iloilo was an undefeated professional boxer (7-0) before moving to the octagon.

The flyweight bout was also part of the preliminary cards. 

Cerrone fails in bid for UFC record books 

American mixed martial arts star Donald "Cowboy" Cerrone also failed in his bid to make UFC history as he was beaten by his younger opponent after falling ill.

Cerrone, 35, had hoped to claim the standalone record for most wins in UFC history.

But 26-year-old British fighter Leon "Rocky" Edwards denied him the privilege, winning via unanimous decision.

The loss means Cerrone remains locked in a 3-way tie for the win record, along with former champions Michael Bisping and Georges St-Pierre, at 20 victories each.

Welterweight Cerrone said he had been under the weather all day but came out to fight anyway.

"This old dog isn't going anywhere. There's still a lot of fight left in me," he said after the fight.

"I was literally sick all day today, I could barely get out of bed. I've never felt like that," he said, adding later at a news conference he had been throwing up earlier in the day.

Cerrone suffered his 11th career loss, but said he was not sad he failed to achieve a record because there would still be a chance in his future fights.

He was not about to hang up his gloves, he said, adding he would like to have two more fights this year and continue fighting over the next 5 years.

Cerrone praised Edwards, who notched up his 15th victory.

"Leon was the better man tonight and he did his thing. I hope he takes off and does really well in this sport," he said.

Edwards said he hoped that victory over Cerrone would propel him to main-event status in a sport that is fast gaining popularity worldwide, including in Asia.

"Thank you to Cowboy for giving me the chance to fight a legend," Edwards said after the fight.

Ahead of the fight, Edwards had taunted Cerrone for being old and slow, and the American vowed to teach his younger opponent a lesson.

Edwards came to Saturday's fight with a 5-fight winning streak, and Cerrone's scalp was his 6th.

Cerrone came in from a victory over Yancy Medeiros in February.

That win followed losing all his 3 previous matches – a run that had prompted comments he was past his prime.

Cerrone suffered a cut near his right eye early in the first round from a knee by Edwards and blood trickled from the wound throughout the fight.

The American tried several times to take down his younger opponent, but the more agile Edwards was able to quickly escape. Cerrone later said the blood from his cut made his grip slippery.

"He told me don't run but the whole fight he ran from me," Cerrone said, laughing as he recalled one conversation with Edwards inside the metal cage.

In an apparent show of frustration, Cerrone at one point motioned Edwards with his finger to move to the center of the octagon and slug it out.

The American said he was flying out early Sunday as his wife is expected to give birth imminently.

In one of the main cards, China's biggest MMA star and welterweight prospect Li "The Leech" Jingliang hammered Japanese judo specialist Daichi Abe via unanimous decision.– With a report from Agence France-Presse

MANILA, Philippines – It is so easy to quit when things are not going well, but in the case of Sarri Subahani, persistence is paying off. 

The 20-year-old education junior from Sulu is tied for 4th in the under-20 division of the 19th ASEAN Age Group Chess Championships in Davao City. 

The unrated Subahani defeated 3 strong juniors in Daniel Quizon, the Asian Youth Under-18 runner-up, Stephen Rome Pangilinan and Kyle Rhenzi Sevillano to join John Marvin Miciano, the Asian Youth under-18 champion. 

Then there’s also 9-year-old Ruelle Canino from Cagayan de Oro, the leader in the girls under-10 who defeated the Vietnamese contingent.

"She is known to have beaten strong players in their area," Dasmariñas coach Roel Abelgas said of Canino, the 6th child of a chess-playing family.

Subahani, a student from Sulu State College , plays the leader, Paulo Bersamina, in Sunday's 8th and penultimate round in a game that could test his resolve once more.

But Noenryrie Asiri, the president of the United Sulu Chess Club, knows the hurdles Subahani had overcome. 

After Subahani failed to join the ASEAN junior chess championship in 2017, Asiri said in a private message on Facebook: Subahani "got frustrated. He dropped out from school. He also dropped out from the religious school and he stopped playing chess."

Asiri said their group was "successful in inspiring him now as we got a good a sponsorship from Governor Abdulsakur Tan II."

Still, Subahani's return came nearly unglued as in the Asian Universities and College Championships, where he landed in the top 20 and even lost to Michael Concio, the 14-year-old Dasmariñas teammate of Quizon. It was his first big national event but for him to be playing well in Davao has created ripples.

Subahani's openings appear not to have any bite but once he gets the advantage, he is ruthless in converting it to victory. He is quick to pounce on errors or if the foe loses vigilance. This is not how unrated players are supposed to perform.

"I am happy that his natural talent has come to the fore as he is the strongest among us all chess players in Sulu despite of his young age," said Asiri.

Prodigy

Age, skill and patience are the hallmarks of Canino, whose reputation is that of a prodigy. 

Abelgas said Canino and Al-Basher Buto, whose parents are from Mindanao, dominated standard chess, rapid and blitz in the 2017 ASEAN age group in Pahang, Malaysia. 

Canino, a  student at Kauswagan Central School, was an under-8 champion in the 2016 ASEAN age group and an under-10 titlist in the 2017 edition.  

Maria Gina Canino, Ruelle’s mother, said her daughter learned chess at the age of 5 from her brothers. Her husband, who is a clerk at Sabjec Customs Brokerage, rarely plays in Manila but their children always play chess.    

The National Chess Federation of the Philippines may not be able to keep its ASEAN age group overall title but discovering unexpected diamonds in the rough like Subahani and Canino will be more than enough. – Rappler.com

CHICAGO—Money in the Bank was a show in which very few earth-moving things truly happened, despite all the great wrestling.

In a way, WWE merely spun its wheels while advancing a few inches on the ground. Yes, new Money in the Bank holders (and the new championship reigns that come with them) are nice to have. In having Alexa Bliss win and cash her title in, the company creatively backed themselves out of the Ronda Rousey and Nia Jax corner they boxed themselves into, but in letting Braun Strowman be Mr. Money in the Bank they wasted an opportunity that could have gone to someone who needed the quick, powerful impact of a cash-in. Strowman could pulverize Brock Lesnar for the championship if he really wanted. 

But there are a lot of other things that have adjusted, mostly on the episodes of RAW and SmackDown Live that followed Money in the Bank. Let’s take a look at them now:

The cards are being set in motion for the SummerSlam main event

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We’re almost near SummerSlam season, so that means it’s time again for Brock Lesnar to come out of his cave soon. The rumor is that this is finally the time Roman Reigns will be winning the title from Lesnar, to achieve his destiny as the Chosen One all those years ago. Before he can get there, though, he has to fulfill the illusion of earning that spot.

So we’re back with another Extreme Rules in which the main event is a multi-man match to determine who gets to fight Lesnar at SummerSlam. Reigns is already in it, Bobby Lashley is already in it, and we’re guessing a few more big names from RAW will be joining in as well, but we all know they’re all for Reigns to feed on. I just want them to get it over with so that Lesnar could finally be divested of that title. 

Shinsuke Nakamura moves to the US Championship, Rusev gets a shot at AJ Styles

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The singles scenes over on SmackDown Live look to be more dynamic post-Money in the Bank. After 4 grueling attempts, Shinsuke Nakamura could not get the job done against an all-powerful AJ Styles. (They probably had him win because he’s on the cover of this year’s WWE 2K19 video game.)

So on this week’s episode of SmackDown Live, they’re shifting gears and switching it up. Shinsuke Nakamura is set to feud with United States Champion Jeff Hardy, who he faced on a previous episode of SmackDown in a (then) one-off match to warm up for Money in the Bank. 

This is actually not a bad move for Nakamura if he wins the United States Championship by Extreme Rules. Astute NJPW fans will remember that he established his legacy not with the IWGP Heavyweight Championship—New Japan’s top title—but with the IWGP Intercontinental Championship. Of course, he did that after a run with the Heavyweight Championship, unlike now that he wasn’t able to get it; but if he does win it from Hardy at Extreme Rules, I can foresee a dominant title reign that helps elevate the midcard belt.

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Meanwhile, the WWE Championship is moving on from the Styles/Nakamura mire it was locked in over the past three months. It’s a bit sad that they’ve gone through all that just to not give Nakamura the win (especially after coming out of the Royal Rumble really hot) but the immediate future looks a lot promising. After a gauntlet match on this week’s SmackDown Live between the Money in the Bank participants from SmackDown (plus Daniel Bryan and Big E), Rusev is now officially your #1 contender to the title.

It’s one of those stories that you know isn’t really going to end up in a WWE Championship win for Rusev—although that would be great—but would make a really fun title chase. Rusev’s been one of the best-improved NXT graduates since his debut four years ago, and one of the most popular heels on the roster (enough to position him as a good guy against the Miz in the gauntlet) so it’s really great to see him get this opportunity. I hope he manages to break through to the main event after this run and be a championship contender by the end of the year, or before WrestleMania. 

NXT establishes presence in the UK

 In some news that has some pretty huge implications around the world, NXT head Triple H and NXT UK division general manager Johnny Saint announced the launch of the NXT UK branch. The division that’s been planned since the first United Kingdom Championship tournament in January last year’s finally coming to fruition, and it’s looking really promising.

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Aside from the UK Championship division headed by current titleholder Pete Dunne, Triple H and Saint have announced a UK women’s and tag team championships as well, meaning this is a full brand. That means the British wrestlers employed by the WWE will no longer have to awkwardly share time with NXT and 205 Live.

The bigger deal about this is that it means WWE will likely be looking to partner with different wrestling companies in other regions. There’s a presence of pro wrestling in Central and South America, continental Europe, the Middle East, and Asia (both South, East, and Southeast). If NXT UK pans out well, we could be seeing something like an NXT Asia or NXT Middle East in the future. If you’re a wrestling fan outside of the US, this is some great news for the business. 

*****

Do you listen to podcasts? Would you want to listen to a local podcast about pro wrestling? If the answers to those questions – especially that last one – are yes, then you should check out the cleverly-named Smark Gilas-Pilipinas Podcast, featuring PWR General Manager Stan Sy, wrestling writer and Wrestling God Romeo Moran, and all-around multimedia person and former voice of PWR Raf Camus! On this week’s episode, the boys talk to Smark Henry writer Maro Rimorin to discuss the concept of intertextuality in pro wrestling! Listen to it here!– Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Rain or Shine had just enough gas left in its tank to stave off  gritty Meralco in overtime, 106-99, at the Araneta Coliseum on Sunday, June 24, and secure a twice-to-beat edge heading into the 2018 PBA Commissioner's Cup playoffs. 

Maverick Ahanmisi submitted an all-around effort of 20 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists as the Elasto Painters, who won their 4th overtime this conference, sealed the top spot in the quarterfinals with a 9-1 record. 

Reggie Johnson had another double-double of 21 points and 18 rebounds for Rain or Shine, but more importantly, made the biggest buckets in the extra period as he scored the team's first 5 points in overtime. 

Trailing 99-102, the Bolts still had a chance to tie the game but a deliberate foul slapped on Chris Newsome – which paved way for a Chris Tiu freebie and an Ed Daquioag trey with 13 seconds left – shut all doors for a possible comeback. 

Tiu added 13 points, 5 assists and 5 rebounds, Daquioag chipped in 11 points while Gabe Norwood chalked up 9 points, 12 rebounds and 5 assists in the win, which dashed Meralco's bid for the final twice-to-beat edge. 

Newsome finished with 21 points, 11 assists and 7 rebounds while import Arinze Onuaku had 20 points, 11 rebounds and 4 steals for the Bolts, who absorbed their second straight loss for a 7-4 card. 

The Elasto Painters led by as much as 18 points before the Bolts slowly chiseled away at their deficit to tie the game at 94-all midway through the 4th quarter off a Newsome bucket.

Meralco, however, failed to take the upper hand as Baser Amer and Onuaku missed 4 straight free throws. The team muffed 18 of its 38 foul shots overall. 

The Scores:

Rain or Shine (106): Johnson 21, Ahanmisi 20, Tiu 13, Daquioag 11, Almazan 9, Norwood 9, Yap 7, Nambatac 5, Belga 5, Ponferada 4, Casino 2, Torres 0, Washington 0.

Meralco (99): Newsome 21, Onuaku 20, Amer 19, De Ocampo 10, Canaleta 9, Hodge 7, Caram 4, Dillinger 3, Lanete 3, Tolomia 3, Hugnatan 0

Quarter scores: 28-27, 64-51, 84-81, 96-96 (Reg), 106-99 (OT)

– Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – For the 4th time in the 2018 PBA Commissioner's Cup, the Magnolia Hotshots have tapped a new import. But this time, they've decided to go with a familliar face. 

The Hotshots have tapped the services of Wayne Chism – who will be on his 5th tour of duty in the league – following Vernon Macklin, and first-time PBA reinforcements Curtis Kelly and Justin Jackson.

Chism, who played for the Rain or Shine Elasto Painters 3 times and the NLEX Road Warriors last year, will succeed Jackson as Magnolia makes its final push for a quarterfinals slot. 

Despite reuniting with former Rain or Shine teammate Paul Lee, the 31-year-old American said he still needs to adjust with the Hotshots, who have already played 9 games into the conference. 

"I got to get used to everybody, the coaches and the players. I’m already good with Paul so that’s okay there but I’m getting comfortable with the rest of the team and it’s going to be great," Chism said. 

The Hotshots, currently at 8th place with a 4-5 card, parted ways with Jackson after 3 games.

Jackson averaged 20.0 points, 15.7 rebounds, 5.7 assists and 1.3 blocks but Magnolia won only one game with him in the fold. 

With Chism, the Hotshots seek to win their remaining two games against the NLEX Road Warriors on July 4 at the Mall of Asia Arena and defending champions San Miguel Beermen on July 7 at the Araneta Coliseum to secure a playoffs berth. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – How the tables have turned. 

After a 1-4 start, Barangay Ginebra continued its hot streak as it notched its 4th straight win by giving the reeling Alaska a 105-86 beating in the 2018 PBA Commissioner's Cup at the Araneta Coliseum on Sunday, June 24. 

The Gin Kings improved to 5-5 to gain a share of 6th place with the GlobalPort Batang Pier and handed the Aces their second straight loss. 

Justin Brownlee, playing less than 30 minutes, filled up the stats sheet with 28 points, 9 rebounds and 8 assists in a game that saw Ginebra take control from the get-go with a 14-point lead after the maiden period.

Apparently, the Gin Kings were just getting started as they continued to pounce on the Aces in the middle quarters, extending their lead to as large as 33 points, 85-52, off an LA Tenorio freebie with 3 minutes left in the 3rd frame. 

Alaska – which rode on a 7-game winning streak for a stretch this conference – failed to recover from the huge deficit in the payoff period despite employing their patented full-court press. 

"We're on a roll, and I'm not sure what we're doing to get us in a roll. But it just seems that everything is coming together for us right now," marvelled Ginebra head coach Tim Cone. 

"So right now, we're in a good roll and we'll go with it as long as we can. I wish we had some magic food that we're eating or something, and we'll just keep feeding them."

Tenorio tallied 12 points, 5 rebounds, 5 steals and 3 assists while Japeth Aguilar and Sol Mercado conjoined for 20 points and 12 rebounds as the Gin Kings moved within a win from a quarterfinals slot.

Vic Manuel kept his streak of scoring at least 20 points going to 9 games after submitting 20 points and 4 rebounds for the Aces, but he lacked help from his teammates with import Antonio Campbell limited to 6 points and 8 rebounds. 

Jake Pascual was the only other Alaska player in double figures with 11 points and 6 rebounds. 

The Scores:

Ginebra (105): Brownlee 28, Tenorio 12, Aguilar J. 10, Mercado 10, Devance 7, Slaughter 7, Thompson 6, Caperal 6, Ferrer 6, Mariano 5, Chan 4, Aguilar R. 3, Cruz 1, Manuel 0, Caguioa 0.

Alaska (86): Manuel 20, Pascual J. 11, Pascual R. 7, Galliguez 7, Campbell 6, Banchero 6, Potts 6, Casio 5, Baclao 4, Enciso 4, Racal 3, Exciminiano 2, Magat 1, Thoss 0

Quarter scores: 30-16; 63-38; 90-58; 105-86

– Rappler.com

NIZHNIY NOVGOROD, Russia – Hat-trick hero Harry Kane says "it's all coming together" for England at the World Cup  as they sailed into the last 16 with a 6-1 rout of Panama on Sunday, June 24.

Kane's treble and two goals from John Stones, with Jesse Lingard also on the scoresheet, meant England joined Belgium at the top of Group G with 6 points ahead of the match between the two teams on Thursday.

"Fantastic," Kane beamed in an interview with the BBC after leaping to the top of the World Cup Golden Boot scoring chart with 5 goals in two games.

"So proud of the boys. Just enjoying it being here. We knew it was going to be tough but it's all coming together.

"It's a brilliant result, fantastic to be through and to do it in this way is great."

The Tottenham Hotspur striker said England fans were justified in dreaming of winning the World Cup for the first time since 1966.

"We're not getting too ahead of ourselves. We've got to keep it going but, yes, you have to believe. If you want to achieve anything in life you have to believe.

"We've got to stick together, stick to our game plan."

Records tumbled

England recorded its biggest ever World Cup win by thrashing an ill-disciplined Panama side, which bowed out alongside Tunisia in Group G.

The records tumbled for England on an easy afternoon by the River Volga.

The rout was the first time England have scored more than 4 goals at a World Cup finals since winning the tournament in 1966.

It was the first time in England's history they have managed 5 goals in a first half and Kane became the first England player to score a World Cup hat-trick since Gary Lineker in 1986. 

It is also the first time they have qualified for the knockout stage since 2010, and the biggest victory so far at this tournament.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">We know our two qualifiers from Group G, but who will finish top? <br><br>1) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENG</a><br>2) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BEL?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BEL</a><br>-------------<br>3) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TUN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TUN</a> <br>4) <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PAN</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/f92GiD8Pkv">pic.twitter.com/f92GiD8Pkv</a></p>&mdash; FIFA World Cup  (@FIFAWorldCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/FIFAWorldCup/status/1010885743567364097?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Despite the result, England started slowly and it was Panama who should have scored first in the 5th minute when Anibal Godoy blasted high and wide after the Central Americans carved open England's defence.

England took the lead in the 8th minute when John Stones powered home a header from a Kieran Trippier corner, held up by the referee because of wrestling and pushing by the Panamanians, something which was set to become a theme of the match.

England extended their lead from the penalty spot in the 22nd minute after Lingard was brought down in the box by two defenders.

That opened the floodgates.

Lingard scored the game's best goal in the 36th minute, a 20-yard curling shot past a helpless Jaime Penedo, then Stones added his second 4 minutes later, another header, following an intricate England free-kick.

{source}

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Players to score <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WorldCup</a> hat-tricks for <a href="https://twitter.com/England?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@England</a>:<a href="https://twitter.com/TheGeoffHurst?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TheGeoffHurst</a> - 1966<a href="https://twitter.com/GaryLineker?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@GaryLineker</a> - 1986<a href="https://twitter.com/HKane?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@HKane</a> - 2018 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ENGPAN?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ENGPAN</a> <a href="https://t.co/AAzXj4zfBA">pic.twitter.com/AAzXj4zfBA</a></p>&mdash; FIFA World Cup  (@FIFAWorldCup) <a href="https://twitter.com/FIFAWorldCup/status/1010876312293117952?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Following Panama complaints, the goal was referred to VAR for offside but allowed to stand.

Kane then scored his second penalty in first-half injury time after he was almost farcically wrestled over at a corner, despite further Panama complaints.

At that stage, Panama, who received 5 bookings in their first match and 3 more here, threatened to implode, so bad was their lack of discipline.

Kane's hat-trick was completed in bizarre fashion in the 62nd minute after a Ruben Loftus-Cheek deflected off the English captain's heel into the net.

Again, the referee checked with VAR for offside, but once more the goal stood.

The second-half was largely an anti-climax, with Jordan Henderson and Raheem Sterling going close to making it 7.

However, the biggest cheer of the day was reserved for the 78th minute when Felipe Baloy scored Panama's first ever finals goal. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Details on Calvin Abueva's indefinite suspension remained under wraps. 

But Alaska head coach Alex Compton said Abueva still gets compensated – but with a fine – despite the penalty slapped on the energetic forward for his unexplained absences in team practices and one game.  

"He's got a family, so it's not like, we can't...yeah, so he has been, the whole time, getting his salary with a fine," Compton told reporters after the Aces absorbed an 86-105 whipping from Barangay Ginebra in the PBA Commissioner's Cup on Sunday, June 24. 

Compton, however, neither disclosed the amount Abueva is getting nor the 30-year-old's return date even as the Aces lost back-to-back games by an average of 17 points.

"The amount won't be disclosed. That's not public business, but I know there are some concerned fans, so I'm allowed to share that." 

With or without Abueva, who missed his 5th game, Compton said his wards should still stay competitive – something he did not see against the Gin Kings where they trailed by as much as 33 points. 

"I don't take excuses for anybody. We have guys that wear the Alaska jersey, practice every day. I don't care who's putting it on, you better honor it, and I don't think we honored it," Compton said. 

As the Aces prepare for their final elimination round game against the Phoenix Fuel Masters at the Cuneta Astrodome in July 6, Abueva might see action for Gilas Pilipinas in the 3rd window of the Asian Qualifiers for the FIBA World Cup. 

The national team face will face Chinese-Taipei on June 29 and Australia on July 2. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Tim Cone has seen it all. He has been coaching in the PBA for 29 years and has won a record 20 championships. 

But even after all the games he witnessed, the 60-year-old tactican still gets surprised. And one of those moments came when his Barangay Ginebra picked apart the Alaska Aces, 105-86, on Sunday, June 24. 

The Gin Kings were in perfect control against the Aces, ending the maiden period with a 14-point lead, finishing the first half with a 25-point advantage and seeing their lead grow to as large as 33 points in the 3rd quarter. 

After a disastrous 1-4 start in the Commissioner's Cup, it was just understable that Cone was left in awe of Ginebra, which rolled to a 4th straight win to tie the GlobalPort Batang Pier at 6th with identical 5-5 cards. 

"I told the guys at halftime, I was shocked. I mean, I was surprised, not shocked, I was surprised by what happened in that first half," Cone gleefully told reporters after the game. 

"We're in a really good groove, I don't know why, I don't know what we're doing that's making us play as well as we are, but it's working. I wish I knew what it was so I could make sure we'll continue to do it." 

Cone – whose wards fell into a slump early in the mid-season conference – had said Ginebra knows how to handle the situation after finding itself in the same position time and time again.

And true enough, the Gin Kings now stand just a win away from securing a quarterfinals slot.

"That's what we tell our players: don't get too high or too low. Because there are gonna be bad times, and you're gonna have to work your way through it. And there's gonna be really good times, and if you get too high on those good times, you'll end up getting kampante (too lax). So you know, it goes both ways."

However, Cone knows the job remains far from done as they aim to make it 5 wins in a row against the Batang Pier to have a chance at finishing within the Top 6, which means avoiding a twice-to-beat disadvantage. 

"You know Stanley (Pringle) just had 50 points in their last game. So that's going to be a tough one. But if we can get that one, we feel we can make some noise in the playoffs."

Ginebra has at least two weeks to prepare for GlobalPort as the two teams lock horns at the Cuneta Astrodome on July 6. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Youngsters Antonelle Berthe Racasa, Ronald Canino and Kaye Regidor emerged as the surprise winners in their divisions, but they failed to give the Philippines a lift in the final day of the standard chess competition as Vietnam ruled the ASEAN Age Group Chess Championship Sunday night, June 24, in Davao City.

Racasa, Canino and Regidor came from behind to win the girls under-12, boys under-16 and girls under-8, respectively, as the Philippines won 6 of the 14 events in the tournament.

Paulo Bersamina and national women's champion Shania Mae Mendoza delivered the expected wins in the marquee under-20 division as FEU high school reserve Dale Bernardo also topped the under-18. 

"He is a tactician,"  FEU coach Jayson Gonzales said of Bernardo, a gold medallist on 6th board in the last UAAP season.

Alex Lupian, a member of the 1982 Olympiad team, took the 50- and 65-and-above event.

The Philippines won the overall title in the ASEAN age group last year in Pahang, Malaysia as Vietnam was not able to field a full team. The Philippines topped last year's standard chess, rapid and blitz events to rule the tournament for the first time. 

Racasa, the only child of a lecturer on enhancing memory for law students, scored 2.5 in the last 3 rounds to take her Fide Master title. The other winners, if they have no titles from the World Chess Federation (FIDE) yet, also earned Fide Master title except Regidor as it is offered only to players aged 12 and above.

"Our family's happiness knows no bounds," said Racasa, a former board one of Polytechnic University of the Philippines in his college years. 

Canino, stepping up after top seed Alekhine Nouri faltered, tied two Vietnamese with 6.5 points. He defeated the second placer, Pham Phu Vinh, but did not meet Bui Duc Huy, who in effect shared first with the Filipino high school student from Cagayan de Oro.

A double celebration eluded the Caninos as Ruelle, who won the under-8 title in previous years and is seeking the under-10 plum, lost twice on Sunday to settle for 3rd.

Regidor, who is from Tanuan, Batangas, won her last 3 games as she made up for the losses of Canino from Vietnamese players.

Al-Basher Buto, who ruled his under-8 age division for two years, also lost twice to the remaining Vietnamese in Sunday's 8th and 9th round to finish 3rd. "They were ready for him," said National Chess Federation of the Philippines executive director Red Dumuk of the Vietnamese, whose coach was their first grandmaster, Dao Thien Hai.

Perhaps emboldened by his success in foreign events against older titled players,  Daniel Quizon, the 14-year-old star of the Dasmarinas chess team, was fielded in the under-20 where he tied 6th to 7th with Kyle Rhenzi Sevillano of FEU. 

Quizon will be fielded in the under-14 in the rapid and blitz events and Kylen Joy Mordido in the under-16 category.  

Last year's national junior champion Francois Marie Magpily of Makati shook off her debacle in the national women's eliminations, and surged to finish second in the under-16. Jerish John Velarde of Cebu also rallied to finish second in the boys under-12.

Meanwhile, Surigao Rep. Prospero Pichay was re-elected president of the Asean Chess Confederation. Gonzales was named one of the 4 vice presidents. Red Dumuk was named deputy secretary general. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Gilas Pilipinas has a few days to fully prepare itself as the team landed in Chinese Taipei to kick off the 3rd window of the Asian Qualifiers for the 2019 FIBA World Cup. 

The 15-man national team, who left Manila Monday morning, June 25, will be facing the Taiwanese squad on Friday, June 29, at the Taipei Heping Basketball Stadium. The match has already sold out of tickets. 

Gilas head coach Chot Reyes announced on Twitter that they have arrived in Chinese Taipei. 

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Wheels down </p>&mdash; Chot Reyes (@coachot) <a href="https://twitter.com/coachot/status/1011112752188829697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Twelve players will be chosen for the final lineup against Chinese Taipei as the Philippines, which is at second place in Group B with a 3-1 record, seeks to gain momentum before clashing with juggernauts Australia on July 2 back home. 

Gilas veterans Jayson Castro, Terrence Romeo, June Mar Fajardo, Japeth Aguilar, Gabe Norwood, Calvin Abueva and naturalized player Andray Blatche spearhead the national team against Chinese Taipei, which holds a 1-3 card. 

Matthew Wright, Jio Jalalon, RR Pogoy, Carl Bryan Cruz, Allein Malikisi, Baser Amer and Gilas cadet Troy Rike complete the Gilas pool.

{source}<iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FSMARTSportsPhilippines%2Fposts%2F2227096210640543&width=500" width="500" height="491" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe>{/source} 

Gilas Pilipinas aims to repeat a win against Chinese Taipei – the Filipino team toppled them, 90-83, in the first window last November. – Rappler.com

MANILA, Philippines – Gilas Pilipinas has a few days to fully prepare itself as the team landed in Chinese Taipei to kick off the 3rd window of the Asian Qualifiers for the 2019 FIBA World Cup. 

The 15-man national team, who left Manila Monday morning, June 25, will be facing the Taiwanese squad on Friday, June 29, at the Taipei Heping Basketball Stadium. The match has already sold out of tickets. 

Gilas head coach Chot Reyes announced on Twitter that they have arrived in Chinese Taipei. 

{source}

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Wheels down </p>&mdash; Chot Reyes (@coachot) <a href="https://twitter.com/coachot/status/1011112752188829697?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 25, 2018</a></blockquote>
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Twelve players will be chosen for the final lineup against Chinese Taipei as the Philippines, which is at second place in Group B with a 3-1 record, seeks to gain momentum before clashing with juggernauts Australia on July 2 back home. 

Gilas veterans Jayson Castro, Terrence Romeo, June Mar Fajardo, Japeth Aguilar, Gabe Norwood, Calvin Abueva and naturalized player Andray Blatche spearhead the national team against Chinese Taipei, which holds a 1-3 card. 

Matthew Wright, Jio Jalalon, RR Pogoy, Carl Bryan Cruz, Allein Malikisi, Baser Amer and Gilas cadet Troy Rike complete the Gilas pool.

{source}<iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FSMARTSportsPhilippines%2Fposts%2F2227096210640543&width=500" width="500" height="491" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe>{/source} 

Gilas Pilipinas aims to repeat a win against Chinese Taipei – the Filipino team toppled them, 90-83, in the first window last November. – Rappler.com

SOCHI, Russia – Neymar received the support of his Brazil teammate Fagner on Sunday, June 25, after his tears at the end of their World Cup win over Costa Rica and subsequent criticism at home.

The world's most expensive player scored the second goal in the 2-0 victory over Costa Rica in Saint Petersburg on Friday, June 22, that edged Tite's side closer to qualifying for the last 16.

"Not everybody knows what I went through to get here," Neymar said in an Instagram post after the match. "My tears were of happiness, overcoming, because of my determination and will to win."

"In my life, things have never been easy, so why would they be now?"

But he has come in for criticism for his behaviour during the game at what he perceived to be rough treatment from the opposition, as well for breaking down in tears at full-time.

"Every player is a human being so has feelings and is entitled to feel upset," said Fagner at the Brazil team's training base in the Black Sea resort of Sochi.

"I believe the whole squad is with him and will support him. He is experienced and will come through this to keep giving his best for the national team."

Neymar has huge pressure on his shoulders to deliver despite only returning from injury in the run-up to the World Cup.

The 26-year-old Paris Saint-Germain forward had surgery on a foot fracture at the start of March and did not play again until Brazil's 2-0 friendly win over Croatia 3 weeks ago, when he came off the bench to score.

"I can imagine what Neymar has gone through. I wasn't sure I would be able to be here," said Fagner, the Corinthians right-back who was named in the squad after Daniel Alves was forced to miss out due to a knee injury.

He had been an injury concern himself but recovered and played against Costa Rica after Danilo was ruled out.

"People react in different ways," Fagner said of Neymar.

"His was to have an outpouring of emotion. I was very emotional and happy to be able to play for 90 minutes without any problems, because 54 days ago I was at risk of not making it due to injury.

"We all know what we have had to go through to be here. I think he was playing it all back like a film in his mind, at scoring a goal and taking part in another World Cup."

Fagner will hope to keep his place when Brazil take on Serbia in Moscow on Wednesday, needing just a point to secure a place in the last 16 from Group E and a win to be sure of finishing top.

However, Douglas Costa will miss the game, having suffered a thigh injury after coming off the bench against Costa Rica. – Rappler.com

SAINT PETERSBURG, Russia – Held by Iceland and humiliated by Croatia, Argentina's World Cup could already have been all but over, but Lionel Messi and the rest of Jorge Sampaoli's troubled squad have one final shot at redemption against Nigeria on Tuesday, June 26.

Victory against the Africans, who Argentina have beaten in all 4 previous World Cup meetings, will secure qualification for the last 16 as long as Iceland don't shock already-qualified Croatia.

Even if Iceland claim a first ever World Cup victory, Argentina could still progress on goal difference.

However, bouncing back will take a huge improvement in performance and strength of character so far unseen from the two-time world champions in Russia.

The Argentina federation were even moved on Saturday, June 23, to confirm that Sampaoli would continue for the final group game among rumours of a rift between players and coach.

"I get the feeling there's a general anger at the heart of the team," said Argentina's legendary 1986 World Cup-winning captain Diego Maradona.

"I'm furious and very upset inside, because anyone who wore that shirt can't see it being trampled like that by a Croatian team that isn't Germany, that isn't Brazil, that isn't Holland or Spain."

For all his heroics with Barcelona at club level, Messi is still often compared unfavourably in his homeland for his inability to recreate Maradona's success for the national team.

Messi led Argentina to the World Cup final 4 years ago and consecutive Copa America finals in the following two years, but all 3 ended in defeat.

Time running out

And his 31st birthday on Sunday, June 24, only served to highlight how time is running out for Messi to win a major international tournament.

Without the 5-time World Player of the Year, though, it is highly unlikely Argentina would even have qualified.

Messi salvaged a disastrous campaign under 3 different managers with a hat-trick away to Ecuador in the Albiceleste's final qualifier.

In their hour of need, Argentina need Messi's best once more.

"Leo is fine," insisted veteran midfielder Javier Mascherano, who knows Messi better than most having spent 8 years as his club teammate at Barcelona.

"He is a human being who has his frustrations because things haven't worked out, but so are we all."

"Like it our not, we are the runners-up from the World Cup and we have to show it."

So far in Russia, Messi has been held scoreless. He missed a penalty among 11 unsuccessful shots on goal in a 1-1 draw with Iceland before failing to make any meaningful impact in an error-strewn Argentine display against Croatia.

A month on from Messi's rescue mission in Ecuador, he sat out a friendly as Nigeria beat Argentina 4-2 back in November to highlight how reliant even a squad containing Sergio Aguero, Gonzalo Higuain and Paulo Dybala remain on their number 10.

"It is the most critical situation I have experienced, along with the Ecuador game," said Argentina midfielder Lucas Biglia on Sunday. "But sometimes you have to cling to something."

Argentina are clinging to the hope their captain bails them out again. – Rappler.com