Football, World Cup: Canada has qualified for the final of the Football World Cup for the second time since 1986. Without Bayern Munich’s Alfonso Davies, England coach John Hardemann’s side snatched the required one point before the final day of the CONCACAF group as they beat Jamaica 4–0 (2–0) in front of 30,000 spectators in Toronto. Canada had lost all three preliminary round matches at the 1986 World Cup in Mexico and did not score a goal.
The United States and Mexico (with 25 points each) have the best chance of finishing the other two at the World Cup. Former Dortmund player Christian Pulisic scored three goals as USA beat Panama 5-1 (4-0) in Orlando and could even suffer a loss against fourth-placed Costa Rica (22 points) on the last day of play . The Americans have a goal difference that is ten goals better.
Mexico won 1–0 (0–0) in Honduras and would take at least third place with one point against El Salvador and thus secure participation in the World Cup. The fourth in the CONCACAF group – USA, Mexico or Costa Rica – will play an international play-off against the winners of at least the Oceania group. The opponent will be decided on Wednesday between New Zealand and the Solomon Islands.
Golf, World Rankings: Professional golfer Scotty Schaeffler has topped the world rankings for the first time in his career. The 25-year-old American won the Match Play Championship in Austin in the final against Kevin Kissner. Due to success in the US state of Texas, he replaced Jon Rahm of Spain as number one in the world. “I never really got so far in my dreams,” said Scheffler, who cried after the win. “I like to play golf. I love to compete. I’m happy to be here.”
According to the AP news agency, Schaeffler is the sixth youngest player to be ranked number one in the world since rankings began in 1986. Scheffler said he is delighted with the success in the presence of friends and family. “I don’t feel like the world number one. I feel like the man I was four months ago and I hope that doesn’t change.”