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Messi vs. Vozinha: Best Moments From The Legendary Battle

Cape Verde nearly completed the biggest comeback in men’s FIFA World Cup history, in large part due to another heroic performance from Vozinha, its 40-year-old goalkeeper who leaves the tournament a national hero.

Cape Verde, the lowest-ranked team left in the World Cup and the third-smallest country to ever compete at the tournament, forced extra time against Lionel Messi and Argentina after finding an equalizer in the 59th minute of the Blue Sharks’ World Cup round of 32 match at Miami Stadium on Friday.

Lionel Messi opened the scoring for Argentina in the 29th minute to give him a record-extenting 20th World Cup goal, but Deroy Duarte brought Cape Verde level on a close-range shot that Argentina goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez couldn’t get to. The goal was Duarte’s first-ever for Cape Verde.

Argentina had the opportunity to take back the lead in the 63rd minute, but Cape Verde goalkeeper Vozinha denied a darting Messi of his second goal of the match.

The 40-year-old goalkeeper saved another big chance from Messi in the 72nd minute, this time from a free-kick just outside of the penalty box.

With Argentina desperate for a go-ahead goal in the fifth minute of stoppage time, it was awarded another free kick from just outside the penalty box, setting Messi up for a cinematic finish in a situation he’s delivered in before. Messi found the target, but Voninzha was there to block his shot again and send Cape Verde to extra time.

Argentina struck first once again to start extra time, but it didn’t take long for Cape Verde to come up with another heroic response, this time from Sidny Lopes Cabral, who scored an absolute stunner to even things at two goals a piece.

Cape Verde kept the pressure on Argentina, but La Albiceleste found the winner through an 111th minute own goal to give them the 3-2 win and end Vozinha’s dream run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Vozinha recorded eight saves against Argentina in the 90 minutes of regulation time. He also recorded seven saves for Cape Verde against Spain in the group stage to secure a scoreless draw against one of the tournament’s title favorites. He will leave the tournament with 25 saves, which is the tournament-high.

Argentina is the team moving on to the round of 16, but Vozinha and Cape Verde will leave the tournament champions in their own right.

Argentina vs Cape Verde Highlights 2026 FIFA World Cup™ | Round of 32

Argentina vs Cape Verde Highlights  2026 FIFA World Cup™ | Round of 32 –>

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Argentina Wins But To Cape Verde, Thank You: 5 Takeaways

We were two fingertips away from the greatest upset in the history of the World Cup.

Sit with that for a moment. Cape Verde, ten specks of volcanic rock in the Atlantic with fewer people than Tuscon, took the world champions, the No. 1 ranked team on the planet, the winners of the last World Cup, to the 111th minute of a knockout game. They equalized once in regulation. Then they equalized AGAIN in extra time with a world-class curler into the top corner that turned Miami into a madhouse and had the entire planet screaming at its television.

Argentina survived on a set piece with nine minutes of extra time left. Survived is the only word that fits. Argentina nearly became victims of the greatest World Cup knockout upset of all time. 

Here are my five takeaways from the craziest game of this tournament:

1. Argentina Advance. Nobody Say “Comfortably.”

Lionel Scaloni’s side are in the round of 16, and they earned every inch of it. But let’s be honest about what we watched. Argentina had 64 percent of the ball and spent long stretches passing it sideways with the urgency of a Sunday picnic. When Deroy Duarte equalized in the 59th minute from a tight angle, it was deserved. Argentina had gone sleepy, sloppy, and predictable.

–>

The bigger issue: it can’t just be Lionel Messi. Lautaro Martínez was once again anonymous. The midfield of Rodrigo De Paul, Enzo Fernández and Alexis Mac Allister controlled tempo but created precious little between the lines. Against Egypt in the round of 16, and whoever comes after, the champions will need someone other than a 39-year-old to conjure the magic. Tonight, when they absolutely had to have a goal, guess whose delivery produced it. The GOAT, of course.

2. David’s Sling Was On Point. He Nearly Took Goliath’s Head Off.

Read this slowly: a country of roughly 500,000 people stood eye to eye with the world champions for 120 minutes and never once blinked.

Cape Verde didn’t park the bus and pray. They traded punches with Argentina in a World Cup knockout game. Deroy Duarte’s equalizer was a striker’s finish from a tough angle. Then, after Lisandro Martínez thumped Argentina back ahead in extra time, Sidny Lopes Cabral hit the shot of the tournament, a curling missile into the top corner in the 103rd minute. For eight delirious minutes, the impossible was winning. 2-2. Against Argentina. In the knockouts.

They even forced Emiliano Martínez into a flying save on another Lopes Cabral free kick to stay alive. The stone left the sling and grazed the giant’s temple. History will remember how close they came.

3. Messi Rewrites the Book Every Time He Steps On Grass

At this point, Lionel Messi is rewriting the history books every time he steps onto the field.

His 29th-minute opener — a gorgeous first touch off Lisandro Martínez’s long ball and a dink over Vozinha —was his 20th World Cup goal. He’s now scored in eight consecutive World Cup games, another record, a run stretching back to 2022. And because the man is incapable of a quiet night, it was his set-piece delivery in the 111th minute that produced the winner, Cristian Romero rising highest to nod Argentina through.

–>

He now leads the Golden Boot race with seven goals, one clear of Kylian Mbappé, in his sixth World Cup, at 39 years old. All alone at the top. The GOAT keeps grazing, and the rest of football watches in disbelief.

4. Thank You for the Memories, Cape Verde

This team gave the World Cup its soul, and the cast belongs in Hollywood.

Vozinha, a 40-year-old goalkeeper playing in Portugal’s second division, arrived at this tournament with 31,000 Instagram followers. He leaves with 17 million followers and a highlight reel for the ages, including eight more saves tonight — one a scrambling, post-to-post rejection of a Messi free kick that showed incredible awareness.

Then there’s Roberto “Pico” Lopes, the center back who was working at a Dublin bank when Cape Verde recruited him through a LinkedIn message he ignored for nine months because he assumed it was spam. Tonight, the greatest success story in LinkedIn history spent 120 minutes marking the greatest player who ever lived. And barely gave him a yard.

You cannot write this stuff. Except Cape Verde just did.

5. This Is Exactly Why the 48-Team World Cup Exists

Be honest. When the field expanded to 48, you wondered how much the quality would suffer. Filler teams, watered-down soup. Cape Verde was supposed to be exactly that, a name to make up the numbers, three games and a polite wave goodbye. Some stories for the grandchildren in forty years.

Instead, they held Spain scoreless. They traded blows with Uruguay and finished ahead of a two-time world champion. And tonight they took the best team on earth to the brink of the greatest upset the World Cup has ever seen. Two equalizers. 120 minutes. A fingertip from immortality.

An island nation smaller than Kansas City, Missouri, just authored one of the great Cinderella stories in the history of this sport. Ten islands in the Atlantic are crying tears of pride tonight, and the rest of us should be applauding. The Blue Sharks belonged. Every single minute. Sincerely, from all of us — thank you. 

Argentina vs Cape Verde Highlights 2026 FIFA World Cup™ | Round of 32

Argentina vs Cape Verde Highlights  2026 FIFA World Cup™ | Round of 32 –>

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Arizona Sports Betting: Best AZ Sportsbook Promos & Apps

This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports.

Sports betting has been legal in Arizona since April 12, 2021, and the first sportsbook launched on September, 9 2021, both online and in person. Today, Arizona is one of the most competitive betting states in the U.S., with 12 licensed online sportsbooks in AZ, offering mobile apps, retail sportsbooks, and ongoing promos.

In this guide, we’ll cover top sportsbooks, best promos, and key legal information. 

Arizona Sports Betting Overview

  • Online Launch Date: September 9, 2021
  • Online Sportsbooks Available: 12
  •  Retail Sports Betting: Legal (in casinos & tribal properties, plus retail books at pro sports venues)
  •  Legal Betting Age: 21+
  •  College Sports Betting: Some Restrictions (no in-state player props)
  •  Online Casinos: Not Legal

Is Arizona Sports Betting Legal?

Yes. Arizona legalized sports betting in April 2021 via HB 2772, and the market officially launched on September 9, 2021. Sports betting is regulated by the Arizona Department of Gaming. You can bet online or on mobile with licensed operators, and in person at retail sportsbooks located in tribal casinos and select professional sports venues. You must be 21 or older and physically located within Arizona to wager, with geolocation used to verify your location.

College Sports Betting in AZ: No Player Props on In-State Teams

  • Betting on college teams is permitted, but in-state college player prop bets are prohibited.
  • Standard game lines, totals, and futures on Arizona colleges are allowed.

Top Arizona Sportsbook Apps Ranked & Reviewed

Arizona’s online market is competitive, with several major national operators live statewide. While more sportsbooks may enter over time, this section focuses on the top five based on market share, app quality, promotions, and betting features. 

DraftKings Arizona

  • Best known for: deep market depth, fast live pricing, and one of the most polished apps.
  • DraftKings launched in Arizona on September 9, 2021, and is a national market leader known for deep markets and fast live pricing.
  • Welcome offer: Bet $5 and Get $200 in Bonus Bets Instantly. No Promo Code Required.
  • App experience & notable features: iOS rating 4.8/5 (847K+ ratings); live betting hub, SGPs, wide prop catalog
  • Final take: choose DraftKings if you want the broadest menu and fast, reliable live markets on AZ teams.

FanDuel Arizona

  • Best known for: the most intuitive Same Game Parlay builder and strong live markets.
  • FanDuel went live in Arizona on September 9, 2021, and is a top national operator recognized for an intuitive app and elite same-game parlay tools.
  • Welcome offer: Bet $5 Get $200 in Bet Reset Tokens for 5 Days. No Promo Code Needed.
  • App experience & notable features: iOS rating 4.8/5 (847K+ ratings); live betting hub, SGPs, wide prop catalog
  • Final take: pick FanDuel if you value a slick app and elite parlay tools with instant payout previews.

BetMGM Arizona

  • Best known for: Frequent profit boosts and broad SGP options and MGM Rewards integration for hotel and resort perks.
  • BetMGM launched mobile betting in Arizona on September 9, 2021, and is a widely respected U.S. brand backed by MGM Resorts with broad market coverage
  • Welcome offer: “First Bet Offer” up to $1,500 back in bonus bets if your first bet loses with promo code FOXSPORTS + Get a $50 BetMGM Reward Points Bonus.
  • App experience & notable features: iOS rating 4.8/5 (~240K ratings); live betting, cash-out, wide sport coverage.
  • Final take: if you value boosts and MGM Rewards status, BetMGM is a strong secondary book in AZ even when a first-time promo isn’t running.

Fanatics Sportsbook Arizona

  • Best known for: FanCash rewards that convert to bonus bets or merchandise and steady football-season promos.
  • Fanatics launched statewide in Arizona on April 4, 2024, and is growing nationally with its FanCash rewards and clean, modern app.
  • Welcome offer: Get a 100% bet match up to $100 in FanCash for 10 days using promo code FOX2026. Up to $1000 Matched In FanCash.
  • App experience & notable features: iOS rating 4.8/5 (138K+ ratings); clean UI, live betting, responsible gaming tooling.
  • Final take: a great add for rewards hunters, especially during football season, with daily FanCash value.

Caesars Arizona

  • Best known for: daily “Super Boosts” and frequent promos and Caesars Rewards credits on eligible wagers.
  • Caesars debuted in Arizona on September 9, 2021, and is a prominent national book tied to Caesars Rewards and frequent odds boosts.
  • Welcome offer: Bet $1, Double Your Winnings Your Next 10 Wagers with Code ‘FOXDYW’
  • App experience & notable features: iOS rating 4.7/5 (89K+ ratings); SGPs, live betting, simplified navigation.
  • Final take: if you want steady boosts and a national rewards program that ties into Vegas stays, Caesars is a solid rotation book in AZ.

bet365 Arizona

  • Best known for: elite in-play betting, early-payout features, vast global menus, and very robust alternate totals/spreads.
  • bet365 officially launched in Arizona on February 5, 2024, and is globally respected for best-in-class live betting, streaming, and deep alternate lines.
  • Welcome offer: choose Bet $10, Get $150 in bonus bets with code FOX365
  • App experience & notable features: iOS rating 4.8/5 (189K+ ratings); strong live betting hub with rapid markets and useful in-game stats.
  • Final take: stands out for best-in-class live betting with fast odds updates, deep markets, and integrated live streaming that makes in-game wagering seamless.

All Legal AZ Sportsbooks

  • Bally Bet
  • Bet365
  • BetMGM Sportsbook
  • BetRivers Sportsbook
  • Caesars Sportsbook
  • Desert Diamond Sports
  • DraftKings Sportsbook
  • theScoreBet (formerly ESPN Bet)
  • Fanatics Sportsbook
  • FanDuel Sportsbook
  • Hard Rock Bet
  • Sporttrade

How We Rank the Best AZ Sports Betting Apps

With so many sportsbooks available in Arizona, we rely on a consistent set of factors to determine which apps stand out from the competition. Each ranking is based on the following criteria:

Odds Competitiveness: We look at how often a sportsbook posts the best lines compared to its rivals, since even small differences in odds can impact long-term profitability.

Bonus Offers & Ongoing Promotions: We evaluate the value of the welcome bonus for new users as well as the quality and frequency of ongoing promotions for existing customers.

Market Depth & Variety: We consider the overall range of betting options, from major U.S. leagues to niche sports and international markets.

User Experience & Mobile App Performance: We examine how smoothly the app runs, focusing on navigation, stability, and how easy it is to place bets quickly.

Banking & Payout Speed: We assess how many deposit and withdrawal options are available and how quickly players can expect to receive their winnings.

Live Betting Features: We analyze the strength of in-play betting, including the speed of odds updates, the availability of live streaming, and access to real-time stats.

Customer Support: We review the accessibility and responsiveness of support, whether through live chat, phone, or email, to ensure players can get help when they need it.

Best AZ Sportsbook Promos & Welcome Offers (July 2026)

New users in Arizona can snag roughly $500–$650 in combined value right now by stacking the biggest welcome deals. Claim the welcome bonuses first, then decide which app you like best for live betting, parlays, and props. Always check the in-app terms for eligibility, minimum odds, settlement timing, and expiration before placing your qualifying wager.

DraftKings AZ Promo – Bet $5 and Get $200 in Bonus Bets Instantly

Offer Summary: 

  • Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets Instantly.
  • Who’s Eligible: New customers must be physically located in AR, AZ, CO, CT, DC, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA (select parishes), MA, MD, ME, MI, MO, NC, NJ, NH, NY, OH, OR, PA, PR (residents only), TN, VA, VT, WY or WV. Must be 21+ years of age or older (18+ if in DC/KY/NH/WY).
  • Qualifying Bet: $5+ cash bet at -500 odds or longer using the New Customer Token.
  • Bonus: Get $200 in Bonus Bets (8×$25) if your bet wins.
  • Expiration: Bonus Bets valid for 7 days.
  • One per customer; void/cashed-out bets don’t qualify.

Key Details:

  • Minimum deposit $5, qualifying bet $5+.
  • “Bet and Get” structure, bonus credits paid instantly after placing the qualifier.
  • Bonus bets expire per in-app terms.

Standout Perk: 

  • Guaranteed $200 in Bonus Bets

Quick How-to-Claim:

  1. Sign up for a new DraftKings Sportsbook account.
  2. Deposit funds (minimum $5).
  3. Select the New Customer Token.
  4. Place a $5+ cash bet (-500 odds or longer).
  5. Instantly get $200 in Bonus Bets.

FanDuel AZ Promo – Bet $5 Get $200 in Bet Reset Tokens for 5 Days

Offer Summary:

  • Bet $5 Get $200 in Bet Reset Tokens for 5 Days.

Key Details:

  • New users must create and verify a FanDuel account during the promotion period.
  • Place a qualifying $5 wager on any eligible FanDuel Sportsbook market each day for 5 days.
  • Earn one Bet Reset Token per qualifying day, up to 5 total tokens, for up to $1,000 in value.

Standout Perk:

  • Instead of a one-time reward, this promo delivers daily Bet Reset Tokens that protect each $5 wager, with up to $200 back in Bonus Bets per day if the bet loses, giving new users repeated downside protection across five straight days.

Quick How-to-Claim:

  1. Click here and create and verify a new FanDuel account.
  2. Deposit at least $5 and place a $5+ wager each day for 5 days.
  3. Use your Bet Reset Token on each wager to activate protection and earn Bonus Bets if it loses.

BetMGM AZ Promo – Get a $50 BetMGM Reward Points Bonus + $1500 Back in Bonus Bets, If Your First Bet Doesn’t Win with Code ‘FOXSPORTS’

Offer Summary:

  • Get a $50 BetMGM Reward Points Bonus + $1500 Back in Bonus Bets, If Your First Bet Doesn’t Win with Code ‘FOXSPORTS’

Key Details

  • Minimum $10 deposit, the first placed wager of $10+ will be the qualifying wager.
  • Consists of: Getting your original stake paid back in Bonus Bets, up to $1,500 if your bet loses.
  • Bonus bet expiration: seven (7) days.

Standout Perk:

  • Includes Bonus Bets of up to $1,500 if your bet loses.

QuickHow-to-Claim:

  • Sign up, deposit $10+, use the First Bet Offer Token to wager on any game, and get Bonus Bets if the bet loses.

Fanatics AZ Promo – Get a 100% bet match up to $100 in FanCash for 10 days with promo code FOX2026

Offer Summary:

  • New customers get a 100% bet match up to $100 in FanCash for 10 days. Up to $1,000 in FanCash.

Key Details:

  • New users must create and verify a Fanatics Sportsbook account. Use promo code FOX2026 and opt in daily.
  • Place one qualifying bet per day (min. $1 at -200 odds or longer) for up to 10 days.
  • If the bet loses, get 100% of your stake back in FanCash (up to $100 per day, $1,000 total), credited within 72 hours.

Standout Perk:

  • A daily bet match for 10 straight days, giving bettors multiple chances to earn up to $1,000 in FanCash instead of a one-time bonus.

Quick How-to-Claim:

  1. Click here and create a new account using promo code FOX2026.
  2. Deposit and opt in to the promo each day.
  3. Place a $1+ bet at -200 odds or longer.
  4. If the bet loses, get your stake back in FanCash (up to $100).
  5. Repeat daily for 10 days to unlock up to $1,000 in FanCash.

bet365 AZ Promo – Bet $10, Get $150 in Bonus Bets

Offer Summary:

  • New users can bet $10 and receive $150 in Bonus Bets with code fox365, regardless of the outcome.

Key Details:

  • Minimum deposit of $10 and made in the seven days prior to you claiming the offer.
  • Consists of: Getting $150 in Bonus Bets. It doesn’t matter if the bet wins or loses.
  • Bonus Bet expiration: 30 days after registering your account.

Standout Perk

  • Includes $150 of Bonus Bets regardless of whether your bet wins or loses.

Quick How-to-Claim

  • Sign up, deposit $10+, place your first $10 wager, and get Bonus Bets.

Minimum $10 deposit required. Minimum odds -500 of greater. Bonus Bets wager excluded from returns. New customers only. T&CS, time limits and exclusions apply.

Caesars AZ Promo – Bet $1, Double Your Winnings Your Next 10 Wagers with Code ‘FOXDYW’ 

Offer Summary:

  • Bet $1, Double Your Winnings Your Next 10 Wagers with Code ‘FOXDYW’

Key Details:

  • Minimum qualifying wager $1+ after signing up with promo code FOXDYW.
  • Not a Bet-and-Get or insurance offer — the bonus comes as 10× 100% Profit Boost tokens.
  • Each boost allows a max $25 wager and expires 14 days after being awarded.

Standout Perk:

  • Multiple profit boosts give bettors flexibility to enhance winnings across several wagers rather than relying on a single welcome bet.

How-to-Claim:

  1. Create a new Caesars Sportsbook account using promo code FOXDYW.
  2. Verify your account and deposit funds.
  3. Place a $1+ cash wager on any eligible market.
  4. Receive 10 × 100% Profit Boost tokens in your account.
  5. Apply the boosts to wagers (up to $25 each) within 14 days to increase potential winnings.

How to Start Betting on Sports in Arizona

1. Choose a Legal MI Sportsbook

Compare welcome bonuses, odds quality, and app UX. Check for Cardinals, Suns, or Diamondbacks promos.

 2. Register Online

Arizona allows remote sign-up. You’ll typically enter: full name, email, date of birth, last 4 of SSN, and physical address. Verify location and age (21+).

 3. Claim a Welcome Bonus

Click the “claim” button on this page to opt in. Read the terms and conditions for minimum odds, qualifying bet, and expiry.

4. Deposit Funds

Common AZ methods: credit and debit card, online banking/ACH, PayPal, Venmo, Apple Pay, Play+ prepaid.

5. Place Your First Bet

Example: bet $5 on the Cardinals to win at DraftKings to unlock bonus bets. You can also try a simple total or moneyline.

6. Withdraw Winnings

Payout options usually include online banking/ACH, PayPal, Venmo, and Play+. E-wallets often pay fastest, while bank transfers can take longer. Check processing times in the app’s cashier.

Benefits of Signing Up for Multiple Arizona Sportsbooks

Claim Multiple Welcome Bonuses– By creating accounts at several sportsbooks, you can stack multiple sign-up promotions and significantly increase your starting bankroll.

Shop for the Best Odds– Having access to more than one sportsbook allows you to compare lines and always choose the most favorable odds, which can maximize your potential winnings.

Access Unique App Features– Different apps offer different strengths, from parlay builders to live streaming, and signing up for multiple sportsbooks lets you take advantage of each operator’s standout tools.

Take Advantage of Diverse Promos– Sportsbooks run recurring odds boosts, profit boosts, and sport-specific promotions, and using multiple apps ensures you never miss out on the best deal available at any given time.

Backup in Case of Technical Issues– If one app is down during a major game or has technical problems, having accounts with other sportsbooks gives you a reliable backup option to continue betting without interruption.

Major Sporting Events in Arizona

Arizona has a vibrant sports culture, with a mix of professional franchises, major college programs, and world-class events that draw fans and bettors from around the country. Thanks to its warm climate and modern venues, the state hosts some of the most anticipated annual competitions across multiple sports, each generating significant local and national betting interest.

Fiesta Bowl (Glendale)
One of college football’s premier bowl games, the Fiesta Bowl is played each January at State Farm Stadium. It regularly features top-ranked programs and often serves as a College Football Playoff semifinal, making it a major event for bettors focused on spreads, totals, and player props.

PGA Tour: Waste Management Phoenix Open (Scottsdale)
Held each February at TPC Scottsdale, the Waste Management Phoenix Open is known for its electric atmosphere—especially at the iconic 16th hole—and record-breaking crowds. As one of the most popular non-major golf events for wagering, it draws heavy action on outright winners, head-to-head matchups, and live betting markets.

NASCAR Cup Series at Phoenix Raceway (Avondale)
Phoenix Raceway hosts two NASCAR Cup Series races each year, including the season finale in November, which crowns the series champion. Bettors flock to markets like race winners, stage winners, and head-to-head driver matchups, making it one of the biggest motorsports events of the year in the state.

Arizona Sports Betting Handle

The betting handle is the total amount of money wagered with legal sportsbooks over a given period. It counts every dollar staked before any winnings are paid out. Handle is not the sportsbook’s revenue. Revenue equals handle minus payouts, and the hold (or win rate) is revenue divided by handle.

Quick example: if bettors place $200 million in wagers and sportsbooks pay out $188 million, revenue is $12 million and the hold is 6%.

Year Handle Revenue Hold Taxes
2021 $1.74B $161M 9.2% $5.96M
2022 $6.04B $483M 8.0% $28.9M
2023 $6.57B $557M 8.5% $34.8M
2024 $7.96B $708M 8.9% $42.7M

Arizona Sports Betting Restrictions: What You Can’t Bet On

While Arizona offers a wide range of legal sports betting options, there are a few important restrictions bettors need to know. Wagering on college player props is not allowed when the game involves in-state teams such as Arizona or Arizona State. This rule is designed to protect amateur athletes and maintain the integrity of college sports within the state.

Betting on high school sports is strictly prohibited in Arizona. This includes all markets related to team outcomes or individual performances, with no exceptions.

Additionally, sportsbooks cannot offer markets on politics, award shows, or other non-sporting events. This means bettors won’t find odds on elections, the Oscars, or reality TV outcomes, keeping Arizona’s sports betting market focused solely on athletic competition.

Responsible Sports Gambling in Arizona

Sports betting should be enjoyable and fit your budget. If gambling is affecting you or someone you know, confidential help is available in Arizona and nationwide. Most sportsbooks also offer deposit limits, time-outs, and self-exclusion to help you stay in control.

Help and resources:

  • Arizona Department of Gaming – problemgambling.az.gov – 1-800-NEXT-STEP (1-800-639-8783)
  • National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) – ncpgambling.org  | 1-800-522-4700 | Text “HELP” to 800-522-4700 | Live Chat: ncpgambling.org/chat
  • Gamblers Anonymous – gamblersanonymous.org  | 1-855-222-5542

Arizona Sports Betting FAQ

Is online sports betting legal in Arizona?

  • Yes. Online sports betting has been legal in Arizona since September 2021, with multiple licensed operators offering mobile and desktop platforms for bettors within state lines.

What is the legal betting age in AZ?

  • The legal sports betting age in Arizona is 21 years old.

Can I bet on college sports in AZ?

  • Yes, you can bet on college sports, including in-state teams. However, player prop bets are not allowed on games involving Arizona-based colleges or universities.

Which sportsbooks are available in Arizona?

  • Arizona features a competitive market with many top sportsbooks, including DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars, bet365, and Fanatics, among others.

Do I need to be in AZ to place a bet?

  • Yes. You must be physically located within Arizona state lines to place bets online. Sportsbooks use geolocation technology to verify your location before allowing wagers.

Are there retail sportsbooks in AZ?

  • Yes. Arizona has several retail sportsbooks located at casinos, stadiums, and other venues, offering in-person betting experiences alongside their online platforms.

Gambling disclaimer: Only individuals aged 21 and over are permitted to gamble. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800-GAMBLER. Gambling is subject to local state regulation and is illegal in some states. Please gamble responsibly – information relating to responsible gambling can be found here.

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Belgium Not Looking Past Senegal: ‘It Doesn’t Matter If You

By advancing to the knockout round atop Group G, Belgium has already improved upon its woeful performance at the World Cup four years ago.

After a historic third-place finish at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, Belgium did not advance past the group stage in 2022 in Qatar. With its 5-1 victory over New Zealand on Friday night, Belgium won its group and achieved what coach Rudi Garcia wanted from his club.

Ahead of Wednesday’s knockout round match against Senegal, Garcia expressed satisfaction with his group’s accomplishments, as well as a desire for more. Belgium won one game and played to two draws in group play.

“We wanted to finish first in the group stage and we succeeded,” Garcia said in French. “Of course we wanted to win more — we know the story of our World Cup so far. Now it is time for the knockout phase. Senegal is a big team. But, you have to beat them, too, if you want to go far in a World Cup.”

For Belgium’s participation in the tournament to be considered a success, it must first get by a Senegal team that finished third in Group I with three points and a plus-2 goal differential. The African team navigated one of the toughest groups in the tournament, one that featured favorite France and the Erling Haaland-led Norway.

“We know it will be a tough match,” Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku said Monday in French. “Senegal has a lot of top-level players, and the coach is, too. I think it’s 50-50. We really shouldn’t underestimate them.”

Given what transpired in the round of 32 shortly after Lukaku’s comments, Belgium would be wise to heed his warning. Germany lost to unheralded Paraguay on penalties while Morocco sent the Netherlands to its earliest World Cup exit on Monday night.

Belgium is aware that even as the odds-on pick to beat Senegal, it must be careful on Wednesday. Otherwise, it could fall victim to the same fate as its European counterparts.

“It doesn’t matter who the favorite is,” said Belgium forward Charles De Ketelaere. “We have confidence and need to be sharp. Yesterday showed that it doesn’t matter if you are the favorite.”

Senegal, meanwhile, hopes it has the offensive firepower to score against stingy Belgium, which has allowed two goals in three games with star goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois in net. Led by Sadio Mane, Senegal is coming off a 5-0 rout of Iraq.

BelgiumBelgium World Cup Stories

But, Senegal will also be short-handed on the defensive side. Goalkeeper Édouard Mendy, who was injured in a 3-2 loss to Norway in group play, will not be available Wednesday, according to coach Pape Thiaw. Reserve Mory Diaw, who started in Mendy’s place against Iraq, is likely to do so again.

“Mory had a great performance,” Thiaw said in French. “He kept a clean sheet and I think (as) the goalkeeper tomorrow, we hope that we’ll also come up with a clean sheet.”

Even if Senegal has to turn to Diaw, Thiaw is confident his side can pull off an upset, much like both Paraguay and Morocco did Monday.

“It’s not because you finished top of your group that you’re not going to be knocked out in the next round,” Thiaw said. “That’s exactly what happened with the Netherlands. It’s another tournament starting. We are looking for the win tomorrow so that we can continue our journey.”

Debast out of lineup

Center back Zeno Debast, who has not appeared in a World Cup match this summer due to injury, will be available for Wednesday’s match, but is not expected to start, according to Garcia.

Debast participated in his first training session Monday after he had an MRI on Saturday for a left leg injury. He practiced again Tuesday with tape on his left knee.

“Zeno Debast is with the group, but tomorrow is still too soon,” Garcia said. “He is making progress, though. He still needs time to get fully fit, as was anticipated. I am very satisfied with the defenders we have already called upon.”

Reporting by The Associated Press.

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How to Watch Belgium vs

Belgium and Senegal meet in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32 match on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. ET from Seattle Stadium.

Belgium topped Group G with a 1-0-2 record and five points, beating New Zealand 5-1 in their final group stage match after draws with Egypt and Iran. Leandro Trossard scored twice in the tournament so far. 

Senegal advanced from Group I on three points, losing to France 1-3 and Norway 2-3 before closing with a 5-0 win over Iraq, with Ismaila Sarr scoring three times across the two matches.

Below are the details on how to watch.

How to Watch Belgium vs. Senegal

    [–>

  • When: Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. ET
  • Where: Seattle Stadium, Seattle, WA
  • TV: FS1
  • Stream: Watch 3 days free on FOX One, FOX Sports

Belgium vs. Senegal Preview

Youri Tielemans running the middle is the matchup that decides this.

Belgium’s attack has clicked into gear whenever Tielemans gets to dictate tempo from central areas, and the six goals in three matches back it up. Feed him the ball with room to work, and the rest of the front line follows his lead.

Senegal isn’t the type to sit deep and hope for scraps, though. Ismaila Sarr already has three goals of his own, part of a Senegal attack that’s put up eight in three matches, so Belgium can’t afford to crowd the middle around Tielemans and leave the back exposed. Let Senegal disrupt that rhythm and break quickly, and this turns into a shootout.

Keep an eye on the first ten minutes after Belgium settles in. If Tielemans is getting time and turning upfield cleanly, this game opens up in a hurry.

Argentina, France & Spain battle, England, Portugal make cut in FIFA World Cup Now Power Rankings

Argentina, France & Spain battle, England, Portugal make cut in FIFA World Cup Now Power Rankings

Bob Bradley, Mo Edu and Alex Scott breakdown FIFA World Cup Now’s Knockout Stage Power Rankings going into the Round of 32. Agree with their rankings?

Belgium vs. Senegal Odds

Learn more about Belgium vs. Senegal and check the full FIFA World Cup schedule on FOX Sports!

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How to Watch the World Cup Today: Schedule, Times, TV,

Day 23 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup wraps up the Round of 32, and Lionel Messi’s Argentina takes center stage against Cinderella story Cape Verde. The day opens in Dallas with Australia and Egypt, where Mohamed Salah’s fitness is in question, and closes in Kansas City with Colombia and Ghana. All three matches air on FOX, with every game streaming live and on demand on FOX One.

World Cup Schedule for Friday, July 3

Australia vs. Egypt

  • Time: 2 p.m. ET
  • TV: FOX
  • Stream: Watch 3 days free on FOX One
  • Venue: Dallas Stadium, Dallas, TX

Australia advanced from Group D on four points, beating Turkiye 2-0 before losing to the United States and drawing Paraguay 0-0. Egypt advanced from Group G on five points but enters banged up, with captain Mohamed Salah forced off with a hamstring strain in the group finale against Iran. Head coach Hossam Hassan is optimistic that Salah will play, but Egypt’s offense will struggle to compete if Salah is not fit. Neither nation has ever won a World Cup knockout match, so history is on the line for the winner.

Player to Watch

Patrick Beach

 It was a shocking decision shortly before the first game when Popovic benched veteran starter and now former captain Matthew Ryan in favor of the inexperienced Beach, who plays domestically for Melbourne City. Beach has only five caps with Australia but put in a stunning performance in the win over Türkiye and then earned a second clean sheet against Paraguay. Beach is likely going to need to be at his best again if Australia is to advance.

Argentina vs. Cape Verde

  • Time: 6 p.m. ET
  • TV: FOX
  • Stream: Watch 3 days free on FOX One
  • Venue: Miami Stadium, Miami, FL

Argentina won Group J by multi-goal margins in all three games and has won its last 10 matches, with Lionel Messi tied for the tournament lead with six goals. Cape Verde has been the World Cup’s best underdog story, going unbeaten through three draws, including a scoreless result against Spain, to finish second in Group H. Goalkeeper Vozinha has been outstanding, but the Blue Sharks face a massive step up in class against the defending champions.

Player to Watch

Lionel Messi

It is an obvious pick to say Messi is the player to watch, but there is no other realistic pick. Messi now has 19 World Cup goals and at age 39, he is the tournament’s co-leading scorer and arguably the best player yet again. It is hard to see the Blue Sharks keeping him off the scoreboard when no one else can. 

Is Mexico Finally a Top 10 Team? Alexi Lalas Updates His FIFA World Cup™ Rankings

Is Mexico Finally a Top 10 Team? Alexi Lalas Updates His FIFA World Cup™ Rankings

Alexi Lalas updates his 2026 FIFA World Cup™ Top 10 rankings and reveals where Mexico and Norway land after their latest performances.

Colombia vs. Ghana

    [–>

  • Time: 9:30 p.m. ET
  • TV: FOX
  • Stream: Watch 3 days free on FOX One
  • Venue: Kansas City Stadium, Kansas City, MO

Colombia won Group K behind wins over Uzbekistan and DR Congo and a scoreless draw with Portugal. Its attack, led by Luis Diaz and James Rodriguez, has been one of the tournament’s most fluid. Ghana advanced as one of the third-place finishers out of Group L behind a defense that coach Carlos Queiroz has quickly repaired, though the team managed just 15 shots across the group stage. Colombia is heavily favored, but Ghana’s physical, low-event approach could make this an ugly grind.

Player to Watch

James Rodriguez

Colombia’s captain has not had much club success in recent years, but he continues to be an excellent player for his national team. For Rodriguez, the test is for him not just to play well, but to also be a leader on the field for his team against an opponent that will aim to frustrate with a much slower and more physical approach. 

Who Plays Today in the World Cup?

  • Australia
  • Egypt
  • Argentina
  • Cape Verde
  • Colombia
  • Ghana

World Cup Scores Yesterday

How to Watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup

All World Cup matches air on FOX and FS1, with every game streaming live and on demand on FOX One.



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What is Bobby Bonilla Day? Explaining the New York Mets’

Major League Baseball might be intertwined with July 4, but another early-July holiday holds special significance for a significant portion of baseball fans.

That day is July 1, also known as “Bobby Bonilla Day.” It’s the day when the New York Mets pay their annual deferred fee to former player Bobby Bonilla — who last played an MLB game in October 2001.

Bonilla was owed $5.9 million when the Mets cut the aging player in 1999 and bought out the rest of his contract. Instead of paying him the sum up front, however, then-Mets owner Fred Wilpon cut a deal with Bonilla’s camp. The Mets would pay Bonilla in installments, with annual interest, every year from 2011-2035. Those installments will eventually total nearly $30 million, much more than what Bonilla was owed, according to ESPN.

But there were several upsides for the Mets to pursue this strategy as well — at least, that’s the way it looked at the time. The Mets used the $5.9 million to create an annuity with a securities investor they were heavily in business with at the time that would pay them back in annual dividends. By doing so, they also freed up that money from their payroll for MLB bylaws purposes, meaning that they could use it to sign other players without adding to the total roster payroll that the league could potentially levy taxes against. 

The investor with whom they created the account was known for paying back those dividends with high interest, so the Mets themselves thought they would reap the profits of millions of dollars over the course of the deal even when subtracting all the money they would pay Bonilla.

Tom Brady Reveals NFL Performances as EPIC as Shohei Ohtani’s 10-Strikeout, 3-Homer Game 🤯

Tom Brady Reveals NFL Performances as EPIC as Shohei Ohtani’s 10-Strikeout, 3-Homer Game 🤯

Tom Brady reveals what a Shohei Ohtani-level game looks like in football — the kind of rare performance where an athlete completely takes over the field. The 7-time Super Bowl champ dives into the NFL archive to share the most incredible individual and team performances he’s ever witnessed. From his own snowy 5-touchdown quarter against the Titans to rival Peyton Manning’s 7-TD opener and legendary days from Joe Montana, Adrian Peterson, Julio Jones, and Jerry Rice—these are the games even the GOAT can’t believe.

Just one problem — that investor’s name was Bernie Madoff, and in 2009, Madoff was convicted of running the largest Ponzi scheme fraud in recorded history and sentenced to 150 years in prison. In other words, the profits that the Mets were counting on in their Bonilla strategy likely never came. The fallout of Madoff’s crimes financially devastated the Mets, whose dealings with the corrupt money manager went far beyond their Bonilla agreement. The Mets struggled financially for the rest of Wilpon’s tenure as owner until the team was sold to current owner Steve Cohen in late 2020.

Given the backdrop of Madoff’s involvement, Wilpon’s struggles in the later years of his ownership, and the general drama on and off the field that the Mets even to this day cannot seem to escape, “Bobby Bonilla Day” has become an ironic anti-holiday for fans who want to commemorate the fact that the Mets are paying a now-60-year-old — whose last MLB appearance came nearly 22 years ago — nearly $1.2 million on every July 1 until 2035.

Of course, as the folks over at For The Win pointed out, Bonilla is hardly alone in having a massively deferred contract. Several major MLB contracts over the last few years include large sums of deferred money installments that extend almost two decades into the future, such as Freddie Freeman’s deal with the Los Angeles Dodgers and current Mets star Francisco Lindor’s extension. Of course, these deferments were agreed to when both players were still in their respective primes and not at the end of their careers like Bonilla.

Bonilla was not a bad player by any stretch of the imagination. He made six All-Star teams and won three Silver Slugger Awards in the 1980s and 1990s. Pittsburgh Pirates fans likely remember Bonilla as one of the best hitters on the perennial early 90s playoff-contending teams that also featured a young Barry Bonds. Miami Marlins fans likely remember him as a key part of the team that won the franchise’s first World Series title in 1997.

But to Mets fans and baseball fans in general, Bonilla — fairly or not — will be commemorated every year on the day when he becomes about $1 million richer.

Other Notable Deferred Money Deals

Bobby Bonilla is not alone. A few other notable deferred-money arrangements are still on the books:

    [–>

  • Bobby Bonilla (part 2): A second deal with the Mets and Orioles pays him $500,000 a year for 25 years, with payments beginning in 2004.
  • Bret Saberhagen: Collects $250,000 a year from the Mets for 25 years, also starting in 2004. This deal was the original inspiration for Bonilla’s more famous arrangement.
  • Manny Ramirez: Collecting the final installment of $24.2 million total from the Red Sox through 2026.
  • Max Scherzer: Will receive $105 million total from the Nationals, paid out through 2028.
  • Chris Davis: The Orioles’ arrangement with Davis may make him the next Bonilla. He collects $59 million across a 15-year stretch that runs through 2037. He was paid $9.16 million in both 2024 and 2025, then $3.5 million annually from 2026 to 2032 and $1.4 million from 2033 to 2037.

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How to Watch USA vs

The USMNT and Bosnia and Herzegovina meet in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32 match on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at 8:00 p.m. ET from San Francisco Bay Area Stadium.

The United States won Group D with a 2-1-0 record. Their World Cup path started by beating Paraguay 4-1 and Australia 2-0 before falling 2-3 to Türkiye in their final group match. Folarin Balogun scored twice for the Americans in the group stage. 

Bosnia and Herzegovina advanced as one of the tournament’s best third-place finishers out of Group B, going 1-1-1, drawing 1-1 with Canada in their opener, losing 1-4 to Switzerland in their second match and beating Qatar 3-1 in their final group match. Ermin Mahmic found the net twice across the group stage.

Below are the details on how to watch.

How to Watch USA vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina

    [–>

  • When: Wednesday, July 1, 2026 at 8:00 p.m. ET
  • Where: San Francisco Bay Area Stadium, San Francisco Bay Area, CA
  • TV: FOX
  • Stream: Watch 3 days free on FOX One, FOX Sports

Zlatan & Thierry Henry Preview United States’ Round of 32 Matchup vs Bosnia and Herzegovina

Zlatan & Thierry Henry Preview United States’ Round of 32 Matchup vs Bosnia and Herzegovina

Check out Zlatan Ibrahimović, Alexi Lalas & Thierry Henry’s preview of the United States’ Round of 32 Matchup against Bosnia and Herzegovina.

United StatesProjecting USA’s Starting Lineup

    [–>

  • Goalkeeper: Matt Freese
  • Defender: Antonee “Jedi” Robinson
  • Defender: Tim Ream
  • Defender: Chris Richards
  • Defender: Alex Freeman
  • Midfielder: Tyler Adams
  • Midfielder: Malik Tillman
  • Midfielder: Weston McKennie
  • Attacker: Christian Pulisic
  • Attacker/Defender: Sergiño Dest
  • Forward: Folarin Balogun

 

WHAT YOU SHOULD READ NEXT

USA vs. Bosnia And Herzegovina: Storylines, Projected Lineup, Predictions

Everything to know about USA vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina in their round of 32 showdown.

 

USA vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina Odds

Learn more about United States vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina and check the full FIFA World Cup schedule on FOX Sports!

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Last Night In Baseball: Watch Out For The Surging, MLB-Best

There is always baseball happening — almost too much baseball for one person to follow themselves.

Don’t worry, we’re here to help you by figuring out what you missed but shouldn’t have. Here are all the best moments from last night in Major League Baseball:

Miami MarlinsMarlins Close June With Dominant 20th W

The Marlins crushed the Rockies on Tuesday, 14-3, earning Miami its 20th win of June on the month’s final day. That is not only the most of any team in MLB in June, but also is just the second instance in Marlins’ history where they won at least 20 games in a single month. With the Braves losing to the Cardinals, 5-3, Miami is now just 4.5 back of Atlanta in the NL East: on June 7, the Marlins were 14 behind the Braves. On May 31, they were eight games under .500.

Now, Miami is 46-40, and just capped a month in which it outscored opponents by 53 runs, scoring 133 while allowing just 80: just three teams in the National League have a run differential for the entire season that bests that +53 mark, and only one in the AL managed as much.

Left fielder Griffin Conine — who went 4-for-5 on the day — led off the scoring with an RBI double in the first. The third inning is where business would pick up, though, when shortstop Javier Sonoja hit a three-run homer, his third dinger of the year, to put Miami up 5-1.

That ended up being the game-winning hit, but no one knew it at the time. The Marlins would add another three runs in the sixth on a series of singles, and then in the seventh catcher Joe Mack drove in Sonoja with a two-run jack.

This was overkill at this point, but the longest long ball of the game came off the bat of Owen Caissie: the right fielder drove this 90.4-mph inside-and-low fastball 453 feet to right-center, with it coming off the bat at over 109 mph. Smoked.

It wasn’t just the hitting that starred, though: starter Eury Pérez went 5 ⅓ innings with just two hits and a run allowed, while striking out eight Rockies against four walks. Remember, this game was played at Coors Field — that’s a pretty good turn in the rotation right there.

The Marlins were highly successful in June, and they were also facing legitimate competition. In order: they swept the Nationals, won a series against the Rays, swept the Diamondbacks, took a series from the Pirates, swept the Giants, won series against the Rangers and Cardinals, and have already guaranteed that they would at least do that much against the Rockies. The only series that the Marlins lost all month was to the Phillies, who also spent June surging up the standings. The Rockies are the only team Miami played all month that lacks postseason aspirations, and the Marlins acquitted themselves against that competition quite well.

Arizona DiamondbacksMarte Homers In 4th-Straight Game

Speaking of the Diamondbacks, Arizona won 8-2 against the Giants last night, powered in part by Ketel Marte. The leadoff hitter and second baseman went 2-for-5 with three RBIs and a run, with the first two RBIs coming on a single to left in the bottom of the third.

The last RBI might have counted for less, but it was much louder. Marte hit his 17th homer of the year in the bottom of the sixth, drilling a middle-middle curveball 431 feet to right off of Adrian Houser.

It marked the fourth-straight game in which Marte has homered: in a season where his average and walks are both down a bit, the pop is still very much there. And really, the rest of the package has been there since mid-May, as well: Marte is batting .315/.373/.611 with 11 doubles and homers each since May 20, a 37-game stretch.

The D-backs are just 2.5 back of a wild-card spot in the NL, while this loss shoved San Francisco back to 35-50 and 10.5 behind.

San Francisco GiantsDevers Hits No. 250

The Giants did have something noteworthy happen in their favor during the game, at least. In the top of the seventh, first baseman Rafael Devers crushed a 94.2-mph cutter left over the middle of the plate, and sent it 424 feet to left-center at over 111 mph.

It was career homer No. 250 for Devers, who also drew a pair of walks during the game. He’s now batting .261/.336/.563 with 19 doubles, a triple and 13 of his 15 homers in 52 games since May 3; reports of his demise seem premature, which is good news for the Giants whether they decide to hang on to the slugger or deal him before the trade deadline next month.

Devers, 29, is in his 10th season in the majors, and has played in nine years’ worth of games. He’s averaged 33 homers per 162 games at this point, and if April’s struggles were a temporary thing and not a warning of a steep decline that’s soon to come, he should keep piling on home runs even while playing in that enormous park in San Francisco half the time.

Tampa Bay RaysCaminero Homers In 5th-Straight Game

Four games in a row with a home run is great, there’s no attempt to take away from what Ketel Marte has pulled off. However, four games in a row? Not five. And five is where Rays’ third baseman Junior Caminero is right now, as he went yard again

In a 10-4 Tampa Bay victory, Caminero made his presence felt with a 2-for-5 showing that included three RBIs and a run. All of those ribbies came on the dinger in the third, one Caminero sent an impressive 438 feet to left-center on a mid-90s four-seamer that caught way too much of the top of the zone.

Fittingly, Caminero was the first player to announce that he’ll be competing in the 2026 Home Run Derby. Looks like he’s got a little bit of a head start on that front.

Caminero is now up to .294/.384/.555 with 23 dingers, with the 22-year-old’s long ball last night putting a bow on a torrid June in which he slugged .673.

Los Angeles DodgersRoberts Fastest-Ever To 1,000 Wins

On Monday, Tigers’ manager A.J. Hinch became just the second active manager with at least 1,000 career wins. On Tuesday, he and Reds’ skipper Terry Francona were joined by Dave Roberts when the Dodgers downed the Athletics, 9-3. On top of being the third active manager to 1K, Roberts is also the fastest manager to ever reach 1,000 career wins. And this despite his first — and only — game managed outside of his time with the Dodgers being a loss, too.

In 10 full seasons with the Dodgers, Roberts has finished in first nine times and second once. He has a record of 1,000-605, good for a .623 winning percentage, which is just goofy — no wonder he’s the fastest to 1,000 wins, with a track record where the worst season featured 106 wins, and the only time Los Angeles didn’t win at least 91 times was 2020, when the pandemic-shortened season featured just 60 total.

Roberts and the Dodgers got there with help from third baseman Tommy Edman, who blasted a three-run homer in the third inning to make it 5-1, Los Angeles.

And on the mound was lefty Justin Wrobleski, who continued his excellent campaign with an 11-strikeout performance, a new career-best. Wrobleski picked up his 10th win while walking no one while allowing three runs and seven hits over seven innings of work.

The A’s fell to 40-46 with the L, and have lost four in a row, dropping them to 3.5 back of a wild-card spot in the AL. A tough end to a month that had been promising not all that long ago, but there’s also a lot of 2026 left.

Chicago White SoxWhite Sox Score 7 Before Making An Out

The top of the third was not kind to the Orioles. Starter Trey Gibson got wrecked there, with the White Sox managing to score seven runs before an out was recorded. DH Andrew Benintendi led things off with a single, and then shortstop Colson Montgomery hit his 21st homer of the year — a 440-foot blast — to make it 3-1, Chicago. 

Right fielder Braden Montgomery and second baseman Chase Meidroth would both walk, then center fielder Tristan Peters singled to load the bases. First baseman Jacob Gonzalez would plate two with a single of his own, and then came the final blow, with Junior Perez getting his second dinger of the year, a three-run shot, to make it 8-1, White Sox.

Gibson would recover from that long enough to record consecutive outs, ending the streak, but he then walked Benintendi in his second plate appearance of the inning, and that was it for his outing. There was no major comeback for the Orioles in the works, either: Baltimore would lose, 9-3, with Chicago’s bats going mostly quiet the rest of the way but not until way too much damage had already been done. With the Guardians losing — more on that shortly — the White Sox are now two games up in the AL Central, while the O’s have lost four-straight games and five back of a wild-card spot and 12.5 behind the Rays in the AL East.

Houston AstrosAlvarez’s Milestone Grand Slam

Yordan Alvarez hit the seventh grand slam of his career on Tuesday, helping the Astros to a 6-4 win over the Twins. It put them ahead for good, as Houston was down 3-2 at the time, but Alvarez cleared ‘em all with a swing of the bat against starter Joe Ryan.

It was his 26th homer of the season, but more notable is that seven grand slams tied the franchise mark for the Astros, also held by Carlos Lee, Alex Bregman and current teammate Jose Altuve. This is also Alvarez’s third grand slam of the season, tying the Astros’ mark for the most in a single season — that is also held by Altuve and Bregman, as well as George Springer, per MLB.

Alvarez is leading the American League in homers and runs (59), and the majors in on-base percentage (.428), slugging (.618), OPS (1.046), OPS+ (189), and total bases (191). Unsurprisingly given all of that, he’s also leading the bigs with 13 intentional walks.

Cleveland GuardiansOh No

Poor Cooper Ingle. The Guardians’ rookie was making just his second big-league start in the outfield after he was called up last week, and he lost track of how many outs there were. Not only that, but he lost count with a runner on second, and threw the ball into the stands for a fan as if the inning was over.

Right fielder Ezequiel Duran hustled home when he realized there was a miscount, but was awarded the run, anyway, since the ball had been thrown out of play — it counts as a “throwing error” in the boxscore, which, yes, that’s true.

The good news — silver lining edition — is that the Rangers would win this game 4-2, not by a single run, and that the additional run didn’t come until an inning later and not as a direct continuation of this miscue.

On the Rangers’ side that didn’t involve some luck, there was starter Jacob deGrom. The veteran right-hander went seven strong innings with nine strikeouts against zero walks, and gave up two runs on four hits. Tanner Bibbee was nearly as good, but not quite, and the Guards dropped in the AL Central standings while Texas kept its pace ahead of the Mariners and Astros with the W.

Detroit TigersSkubal Dominated, Schlittler Did Not

The Yankees ended their June with six-straight losses, and while they are still comfortably five games up on a wild-card spot in what’s been a mostly uninspiring American League, New York also fell another game back of the Rays with the latest L, dropping to 2.5 behind.

The problem here was… everything. The Yankees scored just three runs and had four hits, which is part of a larger alarming run: since scoring 12 and 10 runs in back-to-back games, New York has scored five runs once in 13 games, four runs three times, and three or fewer in the rest. That’s an average of 2.5 runs per game, and sure, the endpoints are arbitrary, but it’s another example of what can go wrong whenever historically great hitter Aaron Judge isn’t there to pick up the slack.

A much larger problem on Tuesday, though, was the starting pitching. The normally reliable Cam Schlittler had his second poor start in a row and third of June, as he allowed six runs on four homers in just four innings of work. His ERA for the season is still 2.08, but it’s worth pointing out that his previous appearance had four unearned runs and yet it still climbed from 1.50 at May’s end to this. 

There’s no reason to panic yet — Schlittler is great — but if he’s sliding back towards “great” instead of “elite” then the Yankees need their injured reinforcements to come back whole even sooner.

Meanwhile, Tarik Skubal looked a lot like he’s supposed to for the Tigers, going six innings with nine strikeouts, no walks, and one hit — a solo homer. He gave up two runs, one unearned, before his night ended, which is the kind of performance the ace needed to have with trade rumors swirling. Hey, the Tigers might be just 6.5 back of a wild-card spot, but Skubal is a free agent this offseason and there are nine teams in front of them, and just the Angels and Royals behind.

Philadelphia PhilliesHarper With The Snag

Bryce Harper used to be a catcher, and then he was an outfielder, and now he’s a first baseman who sometimes is penciled in as a designated hitter. He can still field out there, though, even if he’s not as young as he used to be.

The Phillies blanked the Pirates, 8-0, with starter Cristopher Sánchez lowering his ERA to 2.00 with nine strikeouts and seven scoreless innings, and Harper had an RBI single and a walk to go with the nifty glovework.



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Why Are So Many Players Wearing Pink Cleats At The

If you have tuned into the 2026 World Cup, you have likely noticed one striking visual trend across the pitches as an overwhelming number of players are wearing bright pink cleats. 

Major sports apparel brands, including Nike, Adidas, Puma, New Balance and Sketchers, all independently released pink-centric footwear packs for this summer’s tournament.

This widespread adoption of the color comes down to a combination of broadcast visibility, consumer trends, and player confidence, according to a report by The Athletic.

Erling Haaland in his pink cleats during Norway’s group-stage match against Senegal. (Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

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The primary technical reason for the color choice is high contrast.

Pink sits opposite green on the color wheel, making it the most visible color against a soccer pitch. Product testing from major brands revealed that pink provided the maximum visual impact for fans watching both in the stadiums and on TV or mobile screens. 

Furthermore, because no participating country at the World Cup features a primarily pink uniform, the cleats are guaranteed to stand out without clashing or blending into team kits.

Kylian Mbappé is among the stars who have been rocking pinck cleats at the FIFA World Cup. (Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

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There is also a psychological element behind the design choice. Brand executives noted that athletes request loud, bright colors during high-pressure moments to boost their confidence.

Odinga Nimako, a senior member of Nike’s global soccer footwear team, told The Athletic that players wearing such a loud color can amplify their confidence.

Rob Sheldon, head of product for soccer at New Balance, echoed that sentiment, noting that pink aligns with global design trends focused on visibility while reflecting their own energy.

“Athletes (are) demanding the most advanced performance footwear available and increasingly wanting products that reflect their individuality,” Sheldon told CNN Sports.

One player who’s not wearing the pink boots and is standing out in doing so: Lionel Messi.

Lionel Messi stands out as one of the few World Cup stars who is not wearing pink cleats. (Pablo Morano/BSR Agency/Getty Images)

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While the simultaneous release of pink cleats by rival companies makes it look like a coordinated effort, industry experts suggest it is a coincidence driven by shared market research and consumer data as each brand aimed to create the most eye-catching product for the world’s biggest sporting stage. 

However, the uniform shift toward pink should not be expected to be permanent.

“When a new season begins, it’ll be a new color, around the end of July,” Ben Warren, founder of BW Boots UK told The Athletic.

For those viewing the World Cup, the green grass of the pitch will have pink cleats sprinkled atop for at least the remainder of the tournament.



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