馃嚦馃嚘NamibiaSouthern Africa
USA advances to World Cup knockout rounds with victory over Australia
via The Namibian3 min read
The United States secured a spot in the World Cup knockout rounds after defeating Australia 2-0. A Cameron Burgess own goal and an Alex Freeman header sealed the win for Mauricio Pochettino's side, who now advance with a game to spare. This victory follows their 4-1 win against Paraguay. Brazil is preparing to face Haiti after a 1-1 draw with Morocco, with defender Gabriel Magalhaes emphasizing the team's commitment to improve. Coach Carlo Ancelotti plans lineup changes, stressing resilience over perfection. Scotland's captain Andy Robertson is focused on building on their 1-0 win against Haiti and aiming for a result against Morocco to reach the knockout rounds for the first time. Morocco's captain Achraf Hakimi will face trial for alleged rape, a charge he denies, and stated he has been "waiting for this trial since day one." Off the field, Iran's football federation plans to lodge a complaint with FIFA regarding alleged travel restrictions impacting their team's tournament preparations, specifically a denied request to fly from Tijuana to Los Angeles before their match against Belgium.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by The Namibian.
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The United States and Australia are looking to secure their spots in the World Cup knockout rounds on Friday. Mexico has already advanced to the last 32 after a 1-0 victory over South Korea. The USA, coming off a 4-1 win against Paraguay, is confident ahead of their match against Australia. Australia also enters the game with momentum after a 2-0 upset against Turkey. A comment from a US pundit suggesting Australia would be an easy opponent has added tension, with Socceroos coach Tony Popovic stating his team will earn respect on the field. Meanwhile, Brazil aims to improve their performance against Haiti after a 1-1 draw with Morocco. Brazil defender Gabriel Magalhaes acknowledged the team's poor first match and pledged commitment for the upcoming game. Coach Carlo Ancelotti plans to change the lineup and emphasized resilience. Scotland's captain Andy Robertson is urging his team to build on their 1-0 win against Haiti and secure a result against Morocco to advance to the knockout rounds for the first time. Off the field, Iran's football federation plans to lodge a complaint with FIFA regarding alleged travel restrictions, claiming their request to fly to Los Angeles two days before their match against Belgium was denied. The White House's point person for the World Cup, Andrew Giuliani, stated that Iran was informed they would be allowed to enter the United States only on the day before the game.
Namibian long-distance runners Eliander Nepembe and Titus Elago earned silver medals at the 99th Comrades Marathon in South Africa. They completed the 85.7-kilometre Up Run between Durban and Pietermaritzburg in under seven hours and 30 minutes. Nepembe finished in seven hours, seven minutes, and 16 seconds, while Elago crossed the line in seven hours, 24 minutes, and 57 seconds. Their performances contributed to a strong showing by Namibian runners at the event. Nepembe described feeling a mix of excitement and nerves at the start, highlighting the intense preparation involving early morning and weekend training sessions. He found the Polly Shortts climb particularly challenging. Elago credited strategic pacing for his success, conserving energy in the initial 50 to 60 kilometres before increasing his speed. He also overcame discomfort in his right foot during the race by maintaining a determined mindset. The Windhoek City Runners Club sent a record 34 members to this year's Comrades Marathon, reflecting the growing popularity of distance running in Namibia. Both athletes emphasized the value of international competition for gaining experience and exposure, with Elago suggesting it helps improve local events. Nepembe plans to compete in the Comrades and Two Oceans marathons next year, while Elago aims to qualify for the 2027 Comrades Marathon through the Black Mamba Marathon.