Tag: Sports News

Sports

P. Harikrishna Knocked Out in Round 5 Tiebreak at FIDE World Cup 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Sports Desk

India’s journey at the FIDE World Cup 2025 narrowed to a single contender after GM P Harikrishna was knocked out in the Round 5 tiebreaks by GM Jose Eduardo Martinez Alcantara. While both classical games between the two ended in draws, Harikrishna entered the rapid playoff needing to break the deadlock.

The first two rapid games with a 15-minute time control also resulted in draws, pushing the match into the next set of rapid games with a 10-minute time control. Playing with white, Harikrishna pressed for a win and came prepared, even gaining almost a minute on his clock after the opening phase. However, Martinez responded precisely, and the situation gradually shifted in the Peruvian’s favour after Harikrishna traded queens. The game transitioned into a rook-and-pawn endgame, where Martinez maintained steady pressure and eventually secured victory after 59 moves.

Harikrishna then faced a must-win scenario with black in the second rapid game. Despite his efforts, he was unable to break through Martinez’s defence and had to settle for a draw, ending his campaign in the 30-move encounter. With his elimination, India’s hopes now rest on second seed GM Arjun Erigaisi, who earlier produced a commanding performance in Round 5 by defeating two-time World Cup champion GM Levon Aronian 1.5–0.5 in the classical games. Arjun now advances to the quarterfinals, where he will face China’s formidable GM Wei Yi.

Elsewhere in the tournament, GM Sam Shankland advanced after defeating former world rapid champion GM Daniil Dubov, while GM Andrey Esipenko secured his spot by winning with white and drawing with black against GM Aleksey Grebnev. The final quarterfinal position was claimed by Germany’s GM Alexander Donchenko, who overcame GM Le Quang Liem of Vietnam in a tense tiebreak.

The quarterfinal lineup for Monday is now set: Arjun Erigaisi vs Wei Yi, Sam Shankland vs Andrey Esipenko, Jose Martinez Alcantara vs Javokhir Sindarov, and Alexander Donchenko completing the roster. India will be watching closely as Arjun enters the next stage, carrying the nation’s hopes forward.

Sports

FIDE World Cup 2025: Arjun Erigaisi, P Harikrishna Draw Opening Game of Round 5

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Photo Credit – Eteri Kublashvili / FIDE

Panaji, November 14: GM Arjun Erigaisi’s determined attempts to push for victory against GM Levon Aronian did not yield a breakthrough, while GM P Harikrishna opted for a safe and steady draw against GM Jose Eduardo Martinez Alcantara as Round 5 of the FIDE World Cup 2025 began in Panaji on Friday.

Playing with the white pieces, Arjun entered a complex double rook endgame where he held a slight edge. However, Aronian defended resourcefully, surviving a long think on his 21st move and steering the game back to equality. After 41 moves, the players agreed to a draw, leaving the second classical game on Saturday as the decider—this time with Aronian enjoying the white pieces.

Harikrishna, meanwhile, ensured a smooth day at the office. Facing giant-killer Alcantara, who has impressed in the tournament so far, the Indian GM maintained precise play with black. Both players quickly traded into a rook–pawn endgame and settled for a draw after 41 moves.

The FIDE World Cup 2025 began with 206 players from 82 countries, including a strong contingent of 24 Indian participants. After four gruelling rounds, only Arjun and Harikrishna remain in the chase for the prestigious Viswanathan Anand Trophy and the coveted Candidates spots.

At the time of reporting, six of the eight Round 5 matches had ended in draws, setting up an intense second classical game.

Indian Results (Round 5, Game 1)

  • GM Arjun Erigaisi drew with GM Levon Aronian — 0.5 : 0.5
  • GM Jose Eduardo Martinez Alcantara drew with GM P Harikrishna — 0.5 : 0.5
Sports

DBO Panjim & Sonics Crowned Champions at Third Sonics All-Goa U17 Basketball League

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Sports Desk

The Third Sonics All-Goa Under-17 Basketball League concluded in style at Youth Hostel, Miramar, as Don Bosco Oratory Panjim and Sonics emerged as the Boys’ and Girls’ Champions respectively. The finals delivered a perfect blend of athleticism, teamwork, and sportsmanship, drawing an enthusiastic crowd of supporters and showcasing the best of Goa’s rising basketball talent.

In the boys’ championship clash, Don Bosco Oratory Panjim displayed superior composure and coordination to outplay Don Bosco Fatorda 50–42 in a thrilling contest. Leading from the front, Avner Mendonca’s brilliant 25-point performance earned him the Finals MVP title, cementing his place as one of Goa’s most exciting young players. Don Bosco Fatorda’s David Xavier put up a valiant fight, scoring 13 points and keeping the game competitive until the final minutes.

The girls’ final saw Sonics deliver a disciplined and strategic display of basketball, overcoming Don Bosco Fatorda 28–18 to secure the championship. The standout performer was Kim DSouza, whose 12 points and leadership on both ends of the court earned her the Girls’ Division MVP award.

Loyola captured third place in the boys’ division with a narrow 27–22 win over Sonics, with Richie of Loyola making a strong impression throughout the tournament. Other notable young stars included Sean Fernandes of Don Bosco Fatorda and Daniel Rodrigues of Sonics, who drew plenty of cheers for their skillful all-round performances.

Despite minor scheduling adjustments due to unexpected rains, the league maintained high energy and enthusiasm across its 35 matches. Organized by Sonics Basketball Club under the aegis of the Goa Basketball Association, the event once again highlighted the growing strength of Goa’s youth basketball community. The successful completion of the Third Sonics All-Goa U17 League was celebrated with medals, cheers, and memories that promise an even brighter future for the sport in the state.

Sports

Cristiano Ronaldo Says Retirement Is “Soon,” Reflects on Legacy, Family, and Manchester United

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral Sports Desk

Cristiano Ronaldo has announced that his retirement from professional football is approaching, acknowledging that leaving the game he has devoted his life to will be one of the most emotional moments of his career. Speaking on Piers Morgan Uncensored, the 40-year-old Al Nassr forward said he has been mentally preparing for this stage since his mid-to-late twenties, but admitted that nothing will ever replace the excitement of scoring a goal.

“Soon,” Ronaldo said when asked about when he plans to retire. “I think I will be prepared. It will be very, very difficult. But I have prepared my future since I was 25, 26, 27 years old. I think I will be capable to support that pressure. Nothing compares to the adrenaline you have scoring a goal in football. But everything has a beginning and everything has an end. I’m going to have more time for myself, for my family, to raise my kids.”

Ronaldo’s illustrious career has been defined by record-breaking achievements, including being football’s all-time leading goalscorer with 952 goals for club and country combined. Despite already cementing his place among the greatest players of all time, the Portuguese star has publicly stated that he aims to reach 1,000 career goals before calling time on his career.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner also reflected on life beyond football, saying he wants to focus on his family and raising his children. He emphasized that he has long been planning for this transition, ensuring he’s ready to embrace a new chapter once he finally steps off the pitch.

Ronaldo also spoke about his continued emotional connection with Manchester United, the club where he rose to global fame. “I’m sad because the club is one of the most important in the world and one that I still have in my heart,” he said. “They don’t have a structure. I hope that changes in the present and future because the potential of the club is amazing. They are not on a good path. And it’s not only about the coach and players… miracles are impossible.”

His comments highlight both nostalgia and concern for the club that helped shape his early career. Despite his current focus on Al Nassr and Saudi Arabian football, Ronaldo’s heart clearly remains tied to Manchester.

As he nears the end of his playing days, Cristiano Ronaldo’s reflections paint the portrait of a man who has conquered every level of football yet continues to pursue excellence. Whether or not he reaches his goal of 1,000 career goals, his legacy as one of the greatest to ever play the game is already secure — and his next chapter, devoted to family and life beyond football, is about to begin.

International

L.A. Dodgers Pitcher Alex Vesia and Wife Kayla Mourn the Loss of Their Newborn Daughter, Sterling Sol Vesia

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The sports world stands in solidarity with L.A. Dodgers pitcher Alex Vesia and his wife Kayla, who are mourning the devastating loss of their newborn daughter, Sterling Sol Vesia.

Alex, 29, took to social media to express gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this heartbreaking time.

“Thank you Dodger Nation, Blue Jays organization, and all baseball fans for your love and support. We have seen ALL your messages, comments, and posts. It’s brought us so much comfort,” he wrote.

In a beautiful show of unity, relievers from both the Dodgers and Blue Jays’ bullpens wore hats bearing Alex’s number 51, honoring his strength and family. The gesture came after Alex stepped away from the World Series to be by his wife’s side during their most difficult days.

The Dodgers organization and fans across the MLB have flooded social media with messages of condolences and prayers for the Vesia family.

As the couple continues to heal, their story serves as a powerful reminder of the bond between athletes and the communities that support them — a shared spirit of compassion that transcends the field.

🖤 May baby Sterling’s light shine forever in their hearts.

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