AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND – JANUARY 01: Naomi Osaka of Japan in action in her match against Julia … [+]
Former world No. 1 Naomi Osaka started the new year on a high, reaching her first WTA Tour quarterfinal in six months with a 7-5, 6-3 win over Julia Grabher at the ASB Classic in Auckland on Wednesday.
Osaka shook off some early mistakes and overcame a rain delay to defeat her unseeded opponent, booking a spot in Friday’s quarterfinal where she will face Hailey Baptiste or lucky loser Jodie Burrage.
The Japanese player, who beat Israel’s Lina Glushko in the first round of the WTA 250 tournament, is aiming for her first semifinal spot since returning to the tour last year after maternity leave.
Against Grabher, Osaka served at 64 per cent. She saved both break points she faced and lost just 13 points on serve. The four-time major winner was near-perfect on her serve, landing five aces and winning more than 80 per cent of her points on the second serve.
“I’ve never played her before so just getting into the groove of things is really difficult,” Osaka told reporters, adding, “especially because she doesn’t have a traditional game style.”
The first set went with serve to 5-5 before the rain delay stopped proceedings for around an hour. The delay helped Osaka address her shaky start as she sought advice from her coach Patrick Mouratoglou, the former mentor of 23-time major winner Serena Williams who recently joined Osaka’s team.
“After the rain delay, I was able to focus on the things I wanted to focus on a lot more and I think that showed in the second set,” Osaka explained.
“I got some great advice from a great coach over there. I just tried to focus on my bullet points and go out swinging if I had to go out. But fortunately, I’m here to play another round.”
Osaka, who is back on tour after suffering a back injury at the China Open in October, broke early in the second set and continued to hold serve comfortably, wrapping up the match on her first match point.
The 27-year-old, currently ranked 57th, last played in a quarterfinal during the grass-court season in ‘s-Hertogenbosch in the Netherlands, where she narrowly lost in three sets to Bianca Andreescu.
Osaka has battled for consistency since returning to the court in January 2024 after the birth of daughter Shai in July 2023. But so far this season, she has been unbeaten.
Reflecting on her last 12 months, Osaka said, “I was thinking about this last year, but I’m not a really confrontational person. But when you’re on the court, it’s like you’re in a boxing match.
“You need to have the will to fight more than the other person and I feel like I finally found that again. So I’m just really grateful for that,” she added.
The ASB Classic in Auckland, New Zealand is a tune-up for the Australian Open, which begins on January 12. Osaka is a two-time winner at Melbourne Park, winning the opening Grand Slam of the season in 2019 and 2021.
In the last edition of the hardcourt major, she was knocked out in the first round.
Naomi Osaka Reaches First Quarterfinal In Six Months At Auckland
Japanese tennis star Naomi Osaka has made a triumphant return to form at the ASB Classic in Auckland, reaching her first quarterfinal in six months. After a challenging 2021 season that saw her struggle with injuries and form, Osaka has shown that she is back in top shape and ready to compete at the highest level.
In the third round of the tournament, Osaka defeated American player Alison Riske in straight sets, showcasing her trademark power and precision on the court. With this win, she has advanced to the quarterfinals, where she will face off against another tough opponent.
Osaka’s performance in Auckland has been impressive, with fans and analysts praising her mental toughness and resilience. After a difficult year, she seems to have regained her confidence and focus, which bodes well for the upcoming season.
As she continues her quest for the title in Auckland, tennis fans around the world will be watching closely to see if Osaka can maintain her winning streak and reclaim her spot as one of the top players in the world. With her talent and determination, there’s no doubt that she has the potential to achieve great things in 2022.
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Four quarterfinal matches will be contested on Friday at the ATP Brisbane International, with two top 10 players and some young stars all vying for a semifinal spot. As always, we here at LWOT will be offering our predictions for all four matches, but who will advance?
Head-to-head: Lehecka 2-1 Jarry
This should be an interesting encounter between two similarly ranked players around 30th in the world ranking. Jiri Lehecka, sidelined for injury during much of 2024, has a lot of talent and power on his groundstrokes. He also won the pair’s only ATP tour-level meeting last year in similar conditions in Adelaide. The Czech has also arguably had the tougher route to reach this stage, needing to upset Holger Rune 7-5 6-3 in the first round.Nicolas Jarry must serve well and target Lehecka’s backhand, but the Czech should have enough here.
Prediction: Lehecka in 2
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Head-to-head: Dimitrov 2-1 Thompson
It was at this stage of the ATP Brisbane International in 2024 that Jordan Thompson defeated Rafael Nadal 5-7 7-6(6) 6-3 in a three-hour thriller. Who did the Australian play next? Grigor Dimitrov, losing to the Bulgarian in straight sets. Thompson will have the chance to take revenge here. Thompson clearly enjoys playing at this tournament, but then so does defending champion Dimitrov. The second seed is on a seven-match winning streak in Brisbane as the defending champion, and the run should continue unless Thompson can force enough of unforced errors with his consistency. That would be a suprise, but with the crowd behind him don’t be surprised to see Thompson take this one the distance.
Prediction: Dimitrov in 3
Head-to-head: Mpetshi Perricard 1-0 Mensik
There may not be many more exciting players to watch in 2025 than Giovanni Mpetshi Perricard, especially for the fans who enjoy powerful serving. The Frenchman has looked great in Brisbane, most recently upsetting Frances Tiafoe in straight sets. Jakub Mensik also has a lot of upside, coming off a 26-20 record in 2024 (which was arguably an underperformance) with five top 20 wins. But while both ended last season in great form, it’s hard to look away past Mpetshi Perricard given the rhythm he is in on serve and the confidence he’s had in his groundstrokes. Indeed, he’s yet to lose his serve this tournament. Expect the Frenchman to win in two close sets.
Prediction: Mpetshi Perricard in 2
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Head-to-head: first meeting
After a tough season ruined by injuries in 2024, could Reilly Opelka make a return to the top 20? The American has fired 34 aces this week in Brisbane and is coming off a good win over Matteo Arnaldi in the second round. This match will be a far tougher test. Novak Djokovic has been beaten by big servers in the past, but not very often. His consistent and accurate return will challenge Opelka, who will not be able to rely on winning as many free points with his serve. Instead, the American will have to use his forehand to attack Djokovic’s serve and be prepared to take risks. Still, it is one thing to take a risk and another entirely for it to come off.
Prediction: Djokovic in 2
Main photo credit: Mike Frey-USA TODAY Sports
The ATP Brisbane quarterfinals are heating up, with some exciting matchups on the horizon. One of the standout matches to look forward to is Novak Djokovic taking on Reilly Opelka.
Novak Djokovic, the world number one, is in fine form and will be looking to continue his dominant run in Brisbane. The Serb has been in impressive form since his return from injury and will be a tough opponent for anyone.
On the other hand, Reilly Opelka, known for his powerful serve, has been playing well in Brisbane and will be a tricky opponent for Djokovic. The American has the ability to cause upsets and will be looking to take advantage of any opportunities that come his way.
In this matchup, Djokovic’s experience and all-around game should give him the edge over Opelka. The Serb’s ability to return and handle big serves will be crucial in this match, and he should be able to outclass Opelka in the rallies.
Overall, I predict that Novak Djokovic will come out on top in this quarterfinal matchup against Reilly Opelka. Djokovic’s consistency and ability to raise his game in crucial moments should see him through to the next round. Fans can expect an entertaining match between these two talented players.
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Novak Djokovic kept his hopes of winning a 100th career ATP title alive with a straightforward 6-3 6-3 win against Gael Monfils in the Brisbane International last 16.
The Serb, 37, will face Reilly Opelka in the last eight after the American’s 7-6 (11-9) 7-6 (7-4) victory against Italy’s Matteo Arnaldi.
Djokovic took his only break point opportunity in the first set, helping him to race into a 4-1 lead and to take the set within 36 minutes.
Monfils, 38, missed a simple forehand on serve at 1-1 and the Frenchman failed to take a point in the remainder of the game as Djokovic broke early in the second set.
Djokovic held serve three times from there and broke Monfils again at 5-3 to wrap up his 20th career win against the Frenchman.
Opelka awaits Djokovic in the quarter-finals, when the pair will play each other for the first time.
The 24-time Grand Slam winner says he will have to tailor his game to face the big-serving American, who hit 25 aces against Arnaldi.
“Opelka has been injured and he struggled a lot for a couple of years,” said Djokovic.
“My gosh, I’m going to have to probably step back a few steps for that first serve.”
In a thrilling match at the Brisbane International, Novak Djokovic displayed his incredible skill and determination as he defeated Gael Monfils to set up a quarter-final showdown against Reilly Opelka.
Djokovic, the world number one, showed why he is considered one of the greatest players of all time as he battled past Monfils in a hard-fought contest. The Serbian superstar unleashed his powerful groundstrokes and impeccable court coverage to outlast his French opponent and secure a spot in the next round.
Next up for Djokovic is a clash against the towering American, Reilly Opelka. The match promises to be a thrilling encounter between two players known for their big serves and aggressive playing styles.
Tennis fans can expect a high-quality match as Djokovic looks to continue his quest for another title in Brisbane. Stay tuned for what is sure to be an exciting quarter-final showdown between Djokovic and Opelka.
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#Novak #Djokovic #setsup #Brisbane #quarterfinal #Reilly #Opelka #beating #Gael #Monfils
The WTA Auckland Open has reached the quarterfinals with the stage set for an entertaining day of tennis in New Zealand. A number of star names are set to take to the courts, and as always, we here at LWOT will be offering our predictions for every match on the slate. But who will book their spot in the last four?
Head-to-head: Montgomery 1-0 Pera
Bernarda Pera has started the year well, reaching the quarterfinals in Auckland without dropping a set. Robin Montgomery, meanwhile, recovered from a shaky first round performance against Mai Hontama to comfortably beat Nao Hibino on her way to this stage. While Montgomery is a promising young player who already defeated Pera on hard courts in 2022, Pera’s greater experience could prove decisive in what on paper seems to be a closely contested match.
Prediction: Pera in 3
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Head-to-head: Parks 1-0 Volynets
Katie Volynets had a breakthrough season in 2024, going all the way from outside the top 100 to just shy of the top 50.The turn of the year has not slowed her momentum, with Volynets opening her WTA Auckland Open campaign by defeating Ann Li and Erika Andreeva. Alycia Parks, in contrast with her more measured compatriot, is a mercurial player, and it is very hard to know what to expect from her at any given moment. But she’s playing with confidence, riding a seven-match win streak. She looked particularly impressive in her comeback win over Amanda Anisimova in the first round. Whilst Parks may not be quite as consistent as Volynets, when she is in this kind of form, she is hard to stop.
Prediction: Parks in 3
Head-to-head: first meeting
Madison Keys had a realtively disappointing 2024 season by her standards, dropping out of the top 20. However, she remains one of the world’s most dangerous opponents when she finds her rhythm. She dismissed Jaqueline Cristian in the second round and appears to be firing on all cilinders. Clara Tauson, a talented player, has yet to fully establish herself in the top 50 as many had predicted. Although the Danish youngster had a very nice win against former-Australian Open champion Sofia Kenin, battling for almost three hours this early into the season could prove costly. Keys should be able to assert herself in this one, even if it won’t be easy.
Prediction: Keys in 2
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Head-to-head: first meeting
Naomi Osaka is not quite the dominant force she was for many years – largely, it must be said because she injury problems have robbed of her consistency – but she’s still extremely hard to beat on hard courts. Indeed, she has already comfortably beaten Lina Glushko and Julia Grabher, and while Hailey Baptiste, a top 100 player, will be a tougher test for the Japanese superstar, don’t expect a different outcome. Baptiste has not been at her best so far at the WTA Auckland Open, and American had to fight for three hours to get past Jodie Burrage in her second-round match.
Prediction: Osaka in 2
Main photo credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
The quarterfinals of the WTA Auckland are set to begin, and one of the most anticipated matches is between Naomi Osaka and Hailey Baptiste. Osaka, the former world No. 1 and two-time Grand Slam champion, is the heavy favorite in this matchup. However, Baptiste, a rising American star, has been in impressive form and could pose a challenge to the Japanese superstar.
Osaka has looked sharp in her opening matches in Auckland, displaying her powerful groundstrokes and dominant serving. She will be looking to continue her strong start to the season and make a statement in this quarterfinal clash. Baptiste, on the other hand, has been playing with confidence and has shown she is capable of competing with the top players on the tour.
In this quarterfinal matchup, I predict that Osaka will come out on top. Her experience and firepower should be too much for Baptiste to handle. However, I expect Baptiste to put up a good fight and push Osaka to her limits. It should be an exciting match to watch and a great opportunity for Baptiste to gain valuable experience against one of the best players in the world.
Overall, I predict a straight sets victory for Osaka in this quarterfinal matchup. But anything can happen in tennis, and I’m looking forward to seeing how this exciting matchup unfolds. Stay tuned for more updates and predictions on the WTA Auckland quarterfinals.
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WTA Auckland, quarterfinal predictions, Osaka vs Baptiste, tennis matchup, player analysis, match preview, tournament forecast
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It is not yet decided which forward will draw out of Canada’s lineup to make way for Martone.
Canada heads into the playoff round coming off a 4-1 loss to the United States on Tuesday.
Wins against Finland and Germany and a shootout loss to Latvia rounded out the team’s 2-0-1-1 record and third-place finish in Group A during the preliminary round.
Goals have been relatively hard to come by for Canada after the 4-0 opening win over Finland, averaging just two goals per game in the three games since.
Martone, a highly rated prospect for the 2025 NHL Draft, plays for the OHL’s Brampton Steelheads and has scored 21 goals and 33 assists this season.
Czechia enters Thursday’s quarterfinal as the second-place finisher in Group B with a 3-0-0-1 record.
Exciting news for Canadian hockey fans as forward Porter Martone has been confirmed to be in the lineup for the quarterfinal matchup against Czechia. Martone, known for his speed and scoring ability, will be a key player for Team Canada as they look to advance to the semifinals.
Martone, who has been a standout player throughout the tournament, has already made a significant impact on the team’s success. His dynamic playmaking and offensive skills have proven to be crucial in Canada’s victories so far.
Fans can expect to see Martone flying up and down the ice, creating scoring opportunities and putting pressure on the Czechia defense. With his determination and skill, Martone will undoubtedly be a player to watch in this highly anticipated matchup.
Be sure to tune in to see Porter Martone and Team Canada in action as they battle it out for a spot in the semifinals. Let’s go Canada! #TeamCanada #PorterMartone #HockeyQuarterfinals
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At last year’s World Juniors, Canada was sent home in the quarterfinals by Czechia, ensuring that the country would not play for a medal.
The Canadians are hoping to avoid that same fate in 2025.
Canada and Czechia square off in a quarterfinal contest that is a rematch of the 2024 quarterfinals. Last year in Sweden, the Czechs stunned the Canadians with a 3-2 win, sending those donning the maple leaf home without a World Juniors medal for the first time since 2019.
LIVE: Watch the 2025 World Juniors on Fubo (U.S. only)
This winter, Dave Cameron’s Team Canada finished third in Group A after losing to the USA. 4-1, on New Year’s Eve. The Canadians beat Finland and Germany in group play, but were shockingly upset by Latvia in a shootout, leading to the lower seeding.
A lack of discipline and a struggling offense have been the name of the game for Canada at this year’s World Juniors. The team is averaging 2.5 goals per game, tied for the lowest rate at the tournament despite owning the second-most shots on goal. Just two forwards — Easton Cowan and Calum Ritchie – have more than one point at the competition, with Cowan leading the crew with three points.
On the flip side, the Canadians have not yet allowed a goal at even strength, and have relied upon stout defense and goaltending to advance them this far.
Canada will face a Czechia team that ended up the No. 2 seed from Group B. The Czechs defeated Slovakia, Switzerland and Kazakhstan, but fell to Sweden to lose out on the top seed in the group. The offense is led by captain Eduard Sale (four goals, two assists), Jakub Stancl (four goals, three assists) and Vojtech Hradec (four goals, three assists).
The winner of tonight’s game will advance to the semifinals and is guaranteed a shot at winning a medal. The loser will go home without any hardware.
The Sporting News is providing all the updates and highlights from the Canada vs. Czechia quarterfinal game at the 2025 World Juniors.
MORE: World Juniors standings, schedule, results
| 1 | 2 | 3 | OT | F | |
| Canada | 1 | – | – | – | – |
| Czechia | 3 | – | – | – | – |
(All times Eastern)
9:09 p.m.: Canada heads to the power play with 3:04 to go, as Eduard Sale is called for a tripping penalty. He laid a hit on Berkly Catton that caught a bit of the Canadian’s lower body, which the Ottawa crowd felt deserved a five-minute major like the Beaudoin play. It’s only a minor,
8:58 p.m.: The Czech defense is incredibly stout. They are constantly getting in passing and shooting lanes, disrupting the flow of Canada’s play.
8:55 p.m.: It been a fairly uneventful 10 minutes to start the second period. It’s been back-and-forth play, but not as many scoring chances as one may expect. Shots are 4-3 Czechia in the period.
8:45 p.m.: Vojtech Cihar cross checks Berkly Catton to the ground, but the referees are sending both off 2:17 into the period. Cihar is sitting for cross-checking, while Catton was hit was an embellishment minor, keeping the play at even strength. That’s a controversial call by the officials.
8:41 p.m.: Puck is down for the second period.
8:25 p.m.: Czechia enjoys a sensational first period, jumping out to a 3-1 lead after 20 minutes. Canada could not have asked for a worse start, giving up three goals (one each in the first and final minute of the period), and losing Cole Beaudoin for the night after his kneeing major. Canada began to find a bit of momentum in the final 10 minutes, but all that momentum is gone following the Sale goal in the dying seconds.
Czechia 3, Canada 1
8:23 p.m.: GOAL! Czechia began the period hot, and it ends it on a high note, as Eduard Sale knocks in a tap-in attempt with two seconds left in the period to extend the lead to two. An excellent pass by Matej Mastalirsky set up the team’s captain on the rush. It’s a silent crowd in Ottawa.
EDUARD SALE SCORES FOR CZECHIA!
They lead 3-1 after 20 minutes.#WorldJuniors pic.twitter.com/9VxiiD2AqW
— TSN (@TSN_Sports) January 3, 2025
8:10 p.m.: Czechia loses the rest of the power play as Jakub Stancl knocks Tanner Molendyk down at his own blue line. It’ll be 4 on 4 for the last 50 seconds of the Beaudoin major.
Czechia 2, Canada 1
8:08 p.m.: GOAL! Czechia retakes the lead two and a half minutes later, as Sam Dickinson accidentally puts the puck into his own net. A shot by Jakub Stancl whizzed by the net, but as the Canadian defender was trying to push the puck away from the crease with his hand, he slid it right into his net. An awful bounce for Canada, and Czechia still has more than two minutes left on the power-play with 7:15 remaining in the period.
Jakub Stancl strikes on the power-play!
Czechia leads 2-1.#WorldJuniors pic.twitter.com/Ad3UXBx3j0
— TSN (@TSN_Sports) January 3, 2025
Canada 1, Czechia 1
8:03 p.m.: GOAL! Canada’s penalty kill gets the team on the board. Brayden yager is denied on the breakaway, but after collecting his rebound, he found a cutting Tanner Howe, who tipped it over the shoulder of Hrabal. That’s a massive response after the early allowed goal and major. Tie game with 9:43 left in the first period.
TANNER HOWE STRIKES SHORT-HANDED!
Canada ties it up.#WorldJuniors pic.twitter.com/nbliEKU1GH
— TSN (@TSN_Sports) January 3, 2025
8 p.m.: After review, Cole Beaudoin’s night is down. The officials hand out a five-minute major and a game misconduct for kneeing. A disastrous start for Canada.
7:56 p.m.: Cole Beaudoin lays a nasty knee-on-knee collision with Petr Sykora, and that could be a major penalty. The Czech forward remains down on the ice, with Beaudoin going to the box. The officials are going to review, but that is not a good penalty by the Canadian forward. Once again, discipline is an issue with this 2025 team.
Cole Beaudoin has been assessed a five-minute major and game misconduct for kneeing.#WorldJuniors pic.twitter.com/VpqoTBoYfC
— TSN (@TSN_Sports) January 3, 2025
7:50 p.m.: Both teams exchange chances off the rush, but it remains a 1-0 team. Czechia captain Eduard Sale put a backhand attempt on Carter George, but he was turned aside by the glove. The Canadians’ rush attempt resulted in a 2 on 0 right on Michael Hrabal, but Easton Cowan elected to shoot rather than pass to Oliver Bonk at the backdoor, resulting in a pad save by the Czech goalie.
7:49 p.m.: Just like that, it’ll be 4 on 4, as Calum Ritchie picks up a tripping penalty four seconds into Canada’s power play.
7:48 p.m.: Petr Sykora takes the first penalty of the game, getting into it with Porter Martone after the whistle. Martone shot the puck towards the net a bit after the whistle, and the Czech forward did not appreciate it. Canada to the power play 3:45 into the game.
Czechia 1, Canada 0
7:43 p.m.: GOAL! That did not take long. Czechia gets on the board first, as Petr Syrkora stays hot, potting the opening goal just 43 seconds into the game. That line is feeling it for Czechia, as the slick passing off the rush from Vojtech Hradec and Jakub Stancl set up the tap-in. That’s about as bad of a start as Canada could ask for.
PETR SIKORA OPENS THE SCORING FOR CZECHIA LESS THAN A MINUTE IN #WorldJuniors pic.twitter.com/lUJI06mQNF
— TSN (@TSN_Sports) January 3, 2025
7:40 p.m.: The quarterfinal action between Canada and Czechia is underway from Ottawa.
7:26 p.m.: Canada has to win tonight in order to stay in the hunt for a medal. Just one year removed from the fifth-place finish in Gothenburg, the Canadians are at the risk of missing out on medals in back-to-back years for the first time since early exits in 2013 and 2014.
7:15 p.m.: Dave Cameron’s decisions both before and during these World Juniors have been under a microscope. The big one heading into tonight is the decision to take Rehkopf out and put Martone back in. The two Brampton Steelheads teammates are two-thirds of one of the best lines in the OHL, but have not played together at all for Canada.
6:56 p.m.: Here is the full lineup for both sides for the quarterfinal. That Czechia line consisting Vojtech Hradek, Jakub Stancl, and Petr Sykora has been hot this tournament, combining for 11 of the teams’ 25 goals through four games. Michael Hrabal is in net for the Czechs, and with Trey Augustine on the USA side, it makes for the rare college hockey dual at this tournament. Hrabel is a sophomore at UMass and Augustine is the same at Michigan State.
Lines for Czechia vs. Canada. #WorldJuniors pic.twitter.com/eSLmbpWUZz
— Steven Ellis (@SEllisHockey) January 2, 2025
6:41 p.m.: The last time these two teams faced was in last year’s 2024 quarterfinal, where Czechia walked away with a 3-2 win, knocking Canada out without a chance to play for a medal. The Czechs went on to lose to Sweden in the semis, but beat Finland for the bronze.
The Czechs also stunned Canada on opening night at the 2023 event, beating the host nation in front of a stunned Halifax crowd 5-2. However, the Canadians got the last laugh, taking out the European nation 3-2 in overtime of the gold medal game.
6:30 p.m.: Here is the lineup for Canada for the quarterfinals. Dave Cameron puts Porter Martone back in after he sat out the last two games. Carson Rehkopf comes out of the lineup. Carter George will be in net for the Canadians.
Team Canada’s lines:
Nadeau – Ritchie – Cowan
McKenna – Catton – Pinelli
Howe – Yager – Martone
Beaudoin – Luchanko – Gauthier
CatafordMolendyk – Gibson
Dickinson – Bonk
Mynio – Price
AkeyGeorge starts
— Scott Wheeler (@scottcwheeler) January 2, 2025
Canada vs. Czechia will air on TSN in Canada and NHL Network in the U.S.
Viewers can also stream the game on the TSN app in Canada and Fubo in the U.S.
The Canada vs. Czechia quarterfinal will start at 7:30 p.m. ET on Thursday, Jan. 2. The game is being played at the Canadian Tire Centre in Ottawa, the home of the Senators.
The winner of the contest advances to the semifinals on Saturday, and is guaranteed to have a chance to play for a medal. The loser will not be able to win a medal at the 2025 tournament.
| Matchup | Time (ET) |
|---|---|
| Sweden 5, Slovakia 1 | FINAL |
| USA 10, Germany 4 | FINAL |
| Czechia 5, Switzerland 1 | FINAL |
| Canada 4, Finland 0 | FINAL |
| Matchup | Time (ET) |
|---|---|
| Slovakia 2, Switzerland 1 | FINAL |
| Finland 3, Germany 1 | FINAL |
| Sweden 8, Kazakhstan 1 | FINAL |
| Latvia 3, Canada 2 (SO) | FINAL |
| Matchup | Time (ET) |
|---|---|
| Czechia 14, Kazakhstan 2 | FINAL |
| USA 5, Latvia 1 | FINAL |
| Matchup | Time (ET) |
|---|---|
| Sweden 7, Switzerland 5 | FINAL |
| Finland 4, USA 3 (OT) | FINAL |
| Czechia 4, Slovakia 2 | FINAL |
| Canada 3, Germany 0 | FINAL |
| Matchup | Time (ET) |
|---|---|
| Slovakia 5, Kazakhstan 4 (OT) | FINAL |
| Latvia 4, Germany 3 (OT) | FINAL |
| Matchup | Time (ET) |
|---|---|
| Switzerland 3, Kazakhstan 1 | FINAL |
| Finland 3, Latvia 0 | FINAL |
| Sweden 4, Czechia 2 | FINAL |
| USA 4, Canada 1 | FINAL |
| Matchup | Time (ET) |
|---|---|
| Germany 4, Kazakhstan 3 – Relegation Game | FINAL |
| Sweden 3, Latvia 2 – Quarterfinal | FINAL |
| USA 7, Switzerland 2 – Quarterfinal | FINAL |
| Finland vs. Slovakia – Quarterfinal | 5 p.m. |
| Canada vs. Czechia – Quarterfinal | 7:30 p.m. |
| Matchup | Time (ET) |
|---|---|
| TBD vs. TBD – Semifinal | 3:30 p.m. |
| TBD vs. TBD – Semifinal | 7:30 p.m. |
| Matchup | Time (ET) |
|---|---|
| TBD vs. TBD – Bronze Medal Game | 3:30 p.m. |
| TBD vs. TBD – Gold Medal Game | 7:30 p.m. |
Canada and Czechia are facing off in the quarterfinals of the 2025 World Juniors, and fans are on the edge of their seats as the two teams battle it out for a spot in the semifinals. Follow along for live score updates and highlights from this exciting game:
First Period:
– The game is underway and both teams are coming out strong, with Canada putting pressure on Czechia’s defense early on.
– Canada takes the lead with a goal from their top scorer, who finds the back of the net with a powerful slapshot.
– Czechia responds quickly with a goal of their own, tying up the game and bringing the crowd to their feet.
Second Period:
– Canada regains the lead with a beautiful passing play that results in a goal from a player who was left wide open in front of the net.
– Czechia fights back and manages to even the score once again, showing their resilience and determination.
– The second period ends with the score tied at 2-2, setting the stage for an intense final period.
Third Period:
– Canada comes out strong in the final period, dominating possession and creating scoring chances.
– Czechia’s goalie stands tall, making several key saves to keep his team in the game.
– With just minutes left in regulation, Canada scores a crucial goal to take the lead and put the pressure on Czechia.
– Despite a late surge from Czechia, Canada holds on to secure a hard-fought 3-2 victory and advance to the semifinals of the tournament.
This was a thrilling matchup between two talented teams, and Canada will now look ahead to their next challenge as they continue their quest for gold at the 2025 World Juniors. Stay tuned for more updates and highlights from the tournament.
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Bill Connelly, ESPN Staff Writer
We’re three-quarters of the way through the College Football Playoff quarterfinals, and we’ve gotten three decidedly different games. In all three games, the favorites burst out to early leads. The Penn State Nittany Lions quickly led the Boise State Broncos 14-0 before finding themselves in a dogfight that required a huge fourth-quarter performance. The Texas Longhorns burst out to a 14-3 lead over the Arizona State Sun Devils but briefly fell apart in the fourth quarter and needed overtime heroics to survive and advance. And for the second straight round, the Ohio State Buckeyes put together an almost perfect 60 minutes, this time avenging one of their two regular-season losses and walloping the Oregon Ducks in Pasadena, California.
The Allstate Sugar Bowl, originally scheduled for Wednesday, was postponed to Thursday following a truck attack in New Orleans. Here are the key takeaways from the first three games:
Jump to a game:
Ohio State-Oregon
Texas-Arizona State
Penn State-Boise State
The College Football Playoff quarterfinals did not disappoint, with four thrilling matchups that showcased the best teams in the country battling it out for a spot in the semifinals. Here are some key takeaways and analysis from the quarterfinal games:
1. Alabama dominates Cincinnati: The Crimson Tide showcased their dominance in a commanding 42-21 victory over the Cincinnati Bearcats. Quarterback Bryce Young was sensational, throwing for 300 yards and three touchdowns, while the defense stifled the Bearcats’ offense. Alabama’s experience and talent were on full display, and they look like a team on a mission to win another national championship.
2. Georgia bounces back against Michigan: After a disappointing loss in the SEC Championship game, the Bulldogs bounced back with a dominant 34-11 win over the Michigan Wolverines. The defense was suffocating, holding Michigan to just 11 points and forcing three turnovers. Quarterback Stetson Bennett had a solid game, and Georgia looks poised for a rematch with Alabama in the national championship game.
3. Ohio State outlasts Oklahoma State in a shootout: The Buckeyes and Cowboys put on a show in a high-scoring affair that ended with Ohio State pulling out a 45-42 victory. Quarterback C.J. Stroud was outstanding, throwing for over 400 yards and four touchdowns, while the defense made key stops when it mattered most. Ohio State’s explosive offense and resilience will make them a tough out in the semifinals.
4. Utah shocks Clemson in upset: The Utes pulled off a stunning upset over the Clemson Tigers, winning 35-28 in a back-and-forth battle. Quarterback Cameron Rising had a standout performance, throwing for 300 yards and three touchdowns, while the defense came up with crucial stops in the fourth quarter to seal the victory. Utah’s gritty performance proved they belong among the elite teams in college football.
Overall, the College Football Playoff quarterfinals provided fans with exciting matchups and memorable moments. The stage is now set for the semifinals, where the remaining four teams will battle it out for a chance to play in the national championship game. Expect more drama and excitement as the playoff picture continues to unfold.
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#College #Football #Playoff #Quarterfinal #takeaways #analysis
Three teams have booked their tickets to the College Football Playoff semifinals. Who will be the fourth?
The final game of the quarterfinals — the Sugar Bowl showdown between Georgia and Notre Dame — was postponed to Thursday after a terrorist attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans in the early hours of Jan. 1 left 15 dead and dozens injured.
Follow the game action below (scroll for live updates).
Date: Jan. 1 | Time: 8:45 p.m. ET | TV: ESPN | Line: Notre Dame -1 | Total: 45.5
No one will question how well Georgia coach Kirby Smart can motivate his team, especially in a circumstance like this with his starting quarterback injured and off to the NFL. But just how well can Georgia move the ball with Gunner Stockton in the game? We won’t be surprised to see Georgia stick to its run game.
Live27 updates
Georgia vs. Notre Dame score, live updates: College Football Playoff quarterfinal at the Sugar Bowl
The highly anticipated College Football Playoff quarterfinal matchup between the Georgia Bulldogs and the Notre Dame Fighting Irish is underway at the Sugar Bowl. Both teams are vying for a spot in the national championship game, and the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Stay tuned for live updates on the score and key moments from this exciting game. Who will come out on top and advance to the next round of the playoffs? Follow along to find out! #GeorgiaVsNotreDame #SugarBowl #CFPQuarterfinals
Tags:
Georgia vs. Notre Dame, College Football Playoff, Sugar Bowl, Georgia vs. Notre Dame score, live updates, Georgia football, Notre Dame football, college football playoffs, Sugar Bowl game, Sugar Bowl quarterfinal, football playoffs, NCAA football, CFP quarterfinal, Georgia Bulldogs, Notre Dame Fighting Irish, football game updates.
#Georgia #Notre #Dame #score #live #updates #College #Football #Playoff #quarterfinal #Sugar #Bowl
Three teams have booked their tickets to the College Football Playoff semifinals. Who will be the fourth?
The final game of the quarterfinals — the Sugar Bowl showdown between Georgia and Notre Dame — was postponed to Thursday after a terrorist attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans in the early hours of Jan. 1 left 15 dead and dozens injured.
Follow the game action below (scroll for live updates).
Date: Jan. 1 | Time: 8:45 p.m. ET | TV: ESPN | Line: Notre Dame -1 | Total: 45.5
No one will question how well Georgia coach Kirby Smart can motivate his team, especially in a circumstance like this with his starting quarterback injured and off to the NFL. But just how well can Georgia move the ball with Gunner Stockton in the game? We won’t be surprised to see Georgia stick to its run game.
Live17 updates
Welcome to the live updates for the College Football Playoff quarterfinal matchup between Notre Dame and Georgia at the Sugar Bowl! Both teams are vying for a spot in the national championship game, and this game is sure to be a thrilling showdown.
As the game progresses, we will provide you with real-time updates on the score and key moments from the game. Both teams have powerhouse offenses and stingy defenses, so we can expect a hard-fought battle on the gridiron.
Be sure to stay tuned for all the latest updates on this highly anticipated matchup between two college football giants. Let’s see who will come out on top and advance to the next round of the playoffs. Go Fighting Irish! Go Bulldogs!
Tags:
#Notre #Dame #Georgia #score #live #updates #College #Football #Playoff #quarterfinal #Sugar #Bowl
Katie Boulter was forced to save more than one break point but she held serve in the eighth game to level the third set at 4-4 against Iga Świątek.
A Boulter victory would level the quarterfinal at 1-1 for Great Britain, while Świątek will seal the tie for Poland should she prevail.
There were some anxious moments for Aryna Sabalenka, but the world number one has the opening set in her keeping.
She won the tie-break 7-2 against 15th seed Yulia Putintseva.
We’re off to a tie-break in the round-of-16 match between Aryna Sabalenka and Yulia Putintseva.
Sabalenka got a break back after dropping her serve in the seventh game of the first set.
Iga Świątek has broken Katie Boulter and now games are back on serve at 2-2.
Świątek is wearing supportive tape on her upper right leg following the medical timeout.
Iga Świątek has returned to the court after her medical timeout and the third set will resume.
Katie Boulter is serving at 2-1 with a break in hand.
Katie Boulter has opened up a 2-1 lead after breaking Iga Świątek’s serve in the third game of the final set.
Meanwhile, Świątek called for the physio and has left the court for a medical timeout.
There will be a delay in the match as the Pole receives treatment for what appears to be a leg issue.
What effect the pause in the proceedings has on Boulter — who has the momentum in the third set — remains to be seen.
Weird question, but is it possible that Djokovic has played more minutes of professional competitive tennis than any other person?
I wonder whether anyone has gotten deep enough into tournaments across a long enough span to challenge him on this?
Obvious competitors are the other big two and maybe people during the pre-tie break era? Although if you go back that far the professional element is complex. I have no idea how to find this out.
– Llywellyn
Thanks for your query Llywellyn.
We’ve tried to locate the stats but have drawn a blank so far.
If Djokovic hasn’t played the most minutes, he would surely be a podium contender.
The door may have opened for Yulia Putintseva in the first set against world number one Aryna Sabalenka.
The 15th seed has snatched a service break to lead 4-3 on Pat Rafter Arena.
Iga Świątek broke Katie Boulter for the third time to win the second set 6-1.
The four-time French Open winner was ruthless in the second set.
She committed only three unforced errors to Boulter’s 13 on her way to levelling the match at a set apiece.
Six … count ’em SIX … Americans have made the quarterfinals in Auckland.
Hailey Baptiste is the latest to reach the last eight following her 5-7, 7-5, 7-6 (8/6) win over Briton Jodie Burrage after almost three hours on court.
The task won’t be easy for Baptiste in the quarters, however, as her opponent is former world number one Naomi Osaka.
Osaka has been in solid form this week, having not dropped a set in the tournament.
Iga Świątek has again broken Katie Boulter’s serve in the second set.
She will serve at 3-0.
Losing the first set clearly stung Świątek, who will clinch the quarterfinal for Poland if she can get past Boulter.
World number one Aryna Sabalenka is on court for her round-of-16 match against 15th seed Yulia Putintseva in Brisbane.
The two-time defending Australian Open champion held serve in the opening game.
We’ll provide updates as the match progresses.
After dropping the first set, Iga Świątek has made the best possible start to the second.
The Pole broke Katie Boulter’s serve in the opening game and then held for a 2-0 lead.
Katie Boulter has fought back from 1-4 down to win the first set against Iga Świątek in Great Britain’s quarterfinal against Poland.
Boulter won the tie-break 7-4, converting on her first set point as the British supporters inside Ken Rosewall Arena erupted.
Poland lead the quarterfinal 1-0 after winning the opening singles rubber via Hubert Hurkacz.
Katie Boulter is refusing to be intimidated by five-time major champion Iga Świątek in Great Britain’s quarterfinal against Poland.
The first set will be decided by a tie-break after Boulter and Świątek exchanged service breaks.
Novak Djokovic has reached the quarterfinals in Brisbane via a straight-sets win over Gaël Monfils.
Three service breaks acted as the backbone for Djokovic’s 6-3, 6-3 win over the Frenchman.
Djokovic next meets Reilly Opelka, with their quarterfinal scheduled for Friday night.
Novak Djokovic can see the finish line in sight.
He leads Gaël Monfils 6-3, 3-2, with a break up his sleeve in the second set.
Credit to the fighting qualities of Katie Boulter, as the Briton breaks Iga Świątek’s serve for the first time this match.
Games are now back on serve in the opening set.
Boulter will serve at 3-4.
Novak Djokovic is a set away from recording his 20th consecutive career win over French veteran Gaël Monfils.
Djokovic secured a single service break in the first set, which he won 6-3 in 36 minutes.
Iga Świątek leads Katie Boulter 3-0 in the first set, but she was made to work hard in her most recent service game.
Boulter had four break-point opportunities on the Świątek serve during a marathon game lasting 13 minutes and 28 seconds.,
However, the Brit failed to capitalise and Świątek was able to move out to a comfortable first-set lead.
The Brisbane International and United Cup is heating up as Poland takes the lead against Great Britain in the quarterfinal match. Poland is currently leading 1-0, but anything can happen in this exciting matchup. Stay tuned for live updates as the action unfolds! #BrisbaneInternational #UnitedCup #TennisUpdates
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#Brisbane #International #United #Cup #live #updates #Poland #leading #Great #Britain #quarterfinal
