Grandees River Plate all at sea and banking on new president with a familiar name | Jonathan Wilson

Lionel Messi has just wrapped up an incredible season in Major League Soccer, marking the best individual performance in the league's history. Despite his remarkable achievements, there seems to be a lack of widespread recognition or interest in MLS among the American public. This raises questions about the league's ability to capture mainstream attention, even with a global icon like Messi playing in the U.S. His commitment to stay for three more years could potentially change the landscape of soccer in America, but for now, it appears that many are still unaware of his historic season.

The Chicago Bears are on a roll with a four-game winning streak and are gearing up for a crucial Week 8 game against the Baltimore Ravens. The good news for fans is that starting running back D’Andre Swift is expected to play, which could significantly boost the team's chances. This matchup is important not just for the Bears' playoff hopes but also showcases their improvement under head coach Ben Johnson.

This weekend's matchday is packed with exciting fixtures, including the highly anticipated clásico between Real Madrid and Barcelona, which promises to be a thrilling showdown. Additionally, Scottish Premiership fans can look forward to the Hearts vs. Celtic match, while Arsenal hosts Crystal Palace. These games matter not just for the points but for the pride and passion they ignite among fans, making it a must-watch weekend for football enthusiasts.

Steve Sarkisian, the head coach of the Texas Longhorns, expressed his frustration over rumors linking him to the NFL, stating that it 'really pisses me off.' This reaction highlights the challenges coaches face when their commitment to college football is questioned, especially during a pivotal season. Sarkisian's strong response underscores his dedication to the Longhorns and the importance of stability in college coaching, which can impact team morale and recruitment.

In a thrilling conclusion to the group stages of the Women’s Cricket World Cup, England showcased their dominance by defeating New Zealand by eight wickets. England bowled New Zealand out for just 168 runs, with standout performances including an unbeaten 86 from Jones. This victory not only boosts England's confidence as they advance in the tournament but also marks a disappointing end for New Zealand's Sophie Devine in her final one-day international. Such performances are crucial as teams gear up for the knockout stages, making this win significant for England's campaign.

The Atlanta Falcons are facing a tough challenge as they prepare for their Week 9 game against the Miami Dolphins, especially with the news that starting quarterback Michael Penix Jr. is expected to miss the game due to injury. This setback comes at a critical time for the Falcons, who are struggling to keep pace in the NFC South division, currently trailing behind both the Carolina Panthers and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The absence of Penix Jr. could significantly impact the team's chances of securing a much-needed victory.

Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who recently signed a record-breaking $325 million contract with the Dodgers, is quickly proving his worth in American baseball. Despite not having pitched an inning before joining the MLB, his impressive performances in the playoffs suggest that he may actually be underpaid. This situation highlights the evolving dynamics of player contracts and the potential for international talent to reshape the league.