News

Reigning champions USA are out of the Women’s World Cup after a nerve-shredding shootout loss to Sweden.

Published

3 years ago

August 6, 2023

Editor

Sweden 0-0 USA (5-4 PSO) | Round of 16

Holders USA will return home without a FIFA Women’s World Cup medal for the first time in their history after losing on penalties to Sweden in an unforgettable last-16 tie in Melbourne. Lina Hurtig squeezed home the winning spot-kick, albeit only just, after Zecira Musovic had been the Swedes’ heroine in the 120 preceding minutes.

Although it wasn’t laden with goals and attacking inspiration, this much-anticipated match produced fascinating, full-blooded fare from the opening minutes until that dramatic last kick.

The first half belonged entirely to the US, with Trinity Rodman’s elusive, incisive wing play the most effective offensive weapon on either side. Twice inside eight minutes the youngster showed pace and skill to burst away from her marker, each time firing in a right-foot shot that stung the palms of Musovic.

Sweden’s goalkeeper was exceptional throughout, and her team were once again indebted to her early in the second period when Lindsey Horan – who had earlier rattled the bar with a header – went for goal again. The US captain could not have struck her first-time right-foot effort any more sweetly but, just as the ball looked set to nestle in the bottom corner, Musovic stuck out her left hand to divert it wide.

American fans would have been wondering by this stage if this simply wasn’t to be their night, and that sense of foreboding only increased when Musovic produced another superb save to keep out a late Alex Morgan header. Holders’ hearts were also in mouths when, with five minutes of the 90 remaining, Stina Blackstenius cut inside and forced Alyssa Naeher into her first save of the match – and, remarkably, the entire tournament. Extra time brought more Musovic magic, with the Sweden keeper thwarting Morgan, Lynn Williams and Sophia Smith as tension continued to build.

Penalties were required to settle the impasse, and while the US again seemed to be in control of the shootout, crucial misses from Megan Rapinoe, Smith and, finally, Kelley O’Hara left Hurtig with the chance to make history. The substitute’s spot-kick initially looked to have been saved by Naeher but, after an agonising few seconds in which the entire stadium held its breath, the ball was shown to have crossed the line. Sweden celebrated wildly and can now look forward to a quarter-final against the in-form Japanese at Auckland’s Eden Park.

This was USA’s first Women’s World Cup defeat – excluding penalty shootouts – since Sweden themselves beat the Americans in 2011… 4414 days ago!

Photo Courtesy: FIFA

News

Sri Lanka Triumphs in Billie Jean King Cup Juniors Semi-Final

Published

3 hours ago

March 21, 2026

Editor

Sri Lanka secured a commanding victory over the Maldives in the semi-final of the 2026 Billie Jean King Cup Juniors – Asia/Oceania Pre-Qualifying Event, held in Colombo. The host nation advanced to the final with a 2-0 win, showcasing resilience and determination on home soil.

In the opening singles match, Annaya Norbert staged a remarkable comeback after dropping the first set 2-6. She rallied to take the next two sets 6-4, 6-1, sealing the first point for Sri Lanka. Her ability to shift momentum under pressure proved decisive in setting the tone for the tie.

The second singles encounter saw Akesha Silva deliver another strong performance. Despite losing the opening set 4-6, Silva responded with authority, dominating the second set 6-0 before closing out the match 6-3. Her victory ensured Sri Lanka’s place in the final without the need for a doubles decider.

Cricket

Pathirana, Wanindu, Eshan Await Fitness Nod for IPL 2026

Published

4 hours ago

March 21, 2026

Editor

Pathirana, Wanindu, Eshan Await Fitness Nod for IPL 2026

Sri Lanka’s Matheesha Pathirana, Eshan Malinga, and all-rounder Wanindu Hasaranga are set to join their respective franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, pending clearance from Sri Lanka Cricket’s (SLC) mandatory fitness tests.

The assessments, scheduled in the coming days, will determine their readiness after injuries kept them out of the ICC T20 World Cup earlier this year. Early signs suggest the players are recovering well, and officials remain optimistic about their participation.

Pathirana, who became the most expensive Sri Lankan player in IPL history after Kolkata Knight Riders secured him for INR 18 crore at the mini-auction, is expected to be a key figure with his death-over bowling expertise. He previously impressed at Chennai Super Kings, earning recognition for his composure under pressure.

While the trio awaits clearance, several Sri Lankan cricketers have already received their No Objection Certificates (NOCs). Kamindu Mendis, Pathum Nissanka, and Dushmantha Chameera are preparing to join their franchises, with Nissanka heading to Delhi Capitals, Chameera also continuing with Delhi Capitals, and Mendis retained by Sunrisers Hyderabad.
In total, seven Sri Lankan players will feature in IPL 2026, underlining the growing presence of the island nation’s talent in the league.

Cricket

Avishka Gunawardena Appointed SL U-19 Head Coach

Published

2 days ago

March 19, 2026

Editor

Former Sri Lanka cricketer Avishka Gunawardena has been appointed as the head coach of the Sri Lanka Under-19 team. The decision comes as part of Sri Lanka Cricket’s efforts to strengthen the youth development program and prepare the next generation of players for international competition.

Gunawardena, known for his aggressive batting style during his playing days, brings a wealth of experience to the role. He has previously served in various coaching capacities, including stints with domestic teams and the national setup. His appointment is expected to provide young cricketers with valuable guidance and mentorship.

Sri Lanka Cricket officials expressed confidence that Gunawardena’s leadership will help nurture emerging talent and build a strong foundation for future success.