Last updated: September 12, 2026, 10:18 PM ET
Premier League: Arsenal Edge Sunderland to Climb Above City
Arsenal continued their perfect start to the Premier League season with a gritty 2-0 win at Sunderland, a result that lifted them above Manchester City at the top of the table. Bruno Guimaraes scored a stunning goal just two minutes after David Raya had saved a penalty, a decisive sequence that swung the match at the Stadium of Light. The victory extended Arsenal's winning run and underlined their credentials as defending champions, though the performance was far from straightforward. David Raya produced a standout display between the posts, earning a 9/10 rating, while Guimaraes was awarded 8/10 for his match-winning contribution. The penalty save proved the turning point, with Sunderland left to rue a golden opportunity to take control of the contest. Player ratings from the match reflected the fine margins, with both Guimaraes and Raya singled out as crucial to the outcome. Mikel Arteta, however, was far from satisfied with the officiating, describing the penalty awarded to Sunderland as "unacceptable" in a furious post-match assessment. Arteta raged at the decision, insisting the call could have cost his side a result on an afternoon when they were far from their fluent best. The Arsenal manager's frustration was palpable as he questioned the consistency of the officiating, even as his team maintained their 100% record. Arsenal survived the scare to extend their winning run, with Arteta fuming but ultimately relieved to leave the Stadium of Light with all three points. The result keeps Arsenal firmly in control at the summit, with the Manchester derby looming as the next major test of their title credentials. Gabriel Magalhaes also made headlines, revealing he is "eager" for another chance to take a penalty in a Champions League final, a reference to his miss in last season's showpiece. Meanwhile, Arteta expressed surprise at the criticism directed at Arsenal over the departures of Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli this summer, defending the club's handling of two popular figures. Off the pitch, Arsenal are monitoring Como's Nico Paz as the club weighs up January reinforcements, with Liverpool and Aston Villa tracking Cher Ndour and Sunderland refusing to give up on Geny Catamo.
Premier League: Tottenham's Woes Deepen in Goalless Draw with Everton
Tottenham's winless and goalless start to the Premier League season continued with a dispiriting 0-0 draw at home to Everton, a result that left coach Roberto De Zerbi searching for answers. De Zerbi admitted that his side lack both "physical condition" and "confidence," but insisted they can overcome their slow start to the campaign. The Italian's candid assessment came after another toothless attacking display, with Spurs failing to register a goal for the third consecutive league match. Toothless Spurs drew another blank, and chief football writer Phil McNulty warned that a brave new era is in danger of turning into a false dawn. The sense of frustration around the club is growing, with the attacking fluency that De Zerbi was expected to bring yet to materialise. Dominic Solanke struggled in the draw, while Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite was solid at the back as the visitors claimed a creditable point. The player ratings painted a grim picture for Spurs, with few in white emerging with credit from a flat performance. Spurs remained goalless after another bore draw against an Everton side that remains unbeaten this season, a statistic that will do little to ease the pressure mounting on De Zerbi. The Tottenham boss also had to contend with injury news, describing new arrival Mykhailo Mudryk's setback as "stupid" while backing the winger to return to action soon. The result leaves Spurs facing uncomfortable questions as they prepare for a crucial run of fixtures, with the manager's insistence that better days lie ahead yet to be backed up by results on the pitch.
Premier League: Liverpool Held as Fulham Claim First Point
Liverpool were held to a frustrating goalless draw by Fulham at Anfield, a result that left manager Andoni Iraola bemoaning his side's lack of cutting edge. Iraola said his players were tired but refused to use fatigue as an excuse after the stalemate, which saw the Reds drop points at home for the second time in their opening two Anfield fixtures. The Liverpool manager was candid about his team's shortcomings, acknowledging that they lacked the sharpness needed to break down a well-organised Fulham defence. Iraola bemoaned the lack of creativity and cutting edge, and also explained his plan for new signing Barcola, whose integration into the side remains a work in progress. The draw represented a significant opportunity missed for Liverpool, who dominated possession but struggled to convert territorial dominance into clear-cut chances. Fulham frustrated Liverpool to claim their first point of the season, a result that will give the visitors confidence after a difficult start to the campaign. The Cottagers defended resolutely and could even have snatched a winner on the counter-attack, underlining the home side's vulnerability. Liverpool were held to a frustrating draw as Fulham picked up their first point at Anfield, with the hosts unable to find a way through a disciplined defensive block. The player ratings made for uncomfortable reading, with Barcola, Wirtz and Gravenberch struggling as a host of top players failed to perform on the day. Questions are now being asked about whether it is too early for Liverpool to worry after failing to win either of their first two Premier League games at Anfield, though the season remains in its infancy. The broader picture also drew scrutiny, with tired Liverpool, Chelsea's leaky defence and Villa's attacking concerns emerging as the weekend's dominant talking points. Off the field, Liverpool remain keen on Inter midfielder Aleksandar Stankovic after enquiring about him while negotiating Curtis Jones' €35M move to San Siro.
Premier League: Chelsea's Defensive Frailties Exposed by Hull
Chelsea's defensive problems were laid bare once again as newly promoted Hull City extended their unbeaten start to the Premier League season with an entertaining 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge. Hull continued their impressive start to the campaign after the draw, capitalising on some poor Chelsea defending to claim a deserved point. Xabi Alonso's side have now conceded in every league game this season, and the pattern is becoming a serious concern for the new manager. Alonso called for more desire in defence, warning that it will take time to fix his side's frailties at the back after the draw with Hull. The Chelsea boss was visibly frustrated by his team's inability to protect their lead, with the visitors twice coming from behind to earn a share of the spoils. Alonso was unhappy after the draw, with the mood subdued at Stamford Bridge as newly promoted Hull departed with a point that few had predicted. The result leaves Chelsea already playing catch-up in the race for the top four, with their defensive record a glaring weakness. Poor Chelsea defending allowed Hull to extend their unbeaten run, with the visitors' organization and counter-attacking threat causing problems throughout. The west London club's star-studded attack has saved them on multiple occasions already this season, but in-form Hull showed why Chelsea fans are in for a rough ride, as the defensive issues were exposed once more. Chelsea are out of control under Alonso, raising questions about whether the chaotic approach will continue and, more importantly, whether it can keep working for them. There was also transfer news involving the club, with Monaco and Senegal midfielder Lamine Camara moving on from his failed £47.1M move to Stamford Bridge.
Premier League: Mbappe and Real Madrid Find Their Rhythm
Kylian Mbappe continued his blistering start to the season with two goals and an assist as Real Madrid returned to winning ways in LaLiga with a 4-1 victory over Rayo Vallecano. Mbappe starred as Los Blancos put their recent wobble behind them, with the French forward at the heart of everything positive his side produced. His performance served as a reminder of why Madrid invested so heavily in him, and the early signs suggest he is ready to shoulder the goalscoring burden this season. The victory eased the pressure on the Madrid coaching staff after a mixed run of results, with the team's attacking fluency returning in emphatic fashion. Mbappe also found himself in the headlines off the pitch, criticising a viral meme depicting him as a dictator, saying the trend "shows a lack of political and human awareness in people." The forward's willingness to speak out on social issues has added another dimension to his public profile since his move to the Spanish capital. In other LaLiga news, Barcelona coach Hansi Flick hailed "unbelievable" Raphinha as one of the best in the world after converting the Brazilian into a striker this season. Flick praised Raphinha's new No. 9 role, with the Brazilian thriving in a more central position and repaying his coach's faith with a series of influential displays. The tactical switch has given Barcelona a new attacking dimension, and Flick's willingness to experiment is paying dividends early in the campaign.
Serie A: Pulisic Inspires Milan Comeback at Lazio
Christian Pulisic marked his first appearance since the 2026 World Cup with an assist as AC Milan came from 2-0 down to claim a dramatic 2-2 draw at Lazio on Saturday. Pulisic helped Diego Moreira score twice in three minutes as Milan staged a remarkable comeback, with the American's introduction changing the complexion of the match. The draw saw Lazio drop points in Serie A, while Milan will take encouragement from their resilience after a difficult opening period. Pulisic marked his return with an assist, underlining his importance to the Rossoneri as they look to mount a serious challenge this season. The United States international had been heavily linked with a move away from San Siro, but his performance off the bench served as a reminder of the quality he possesses. Pulisic is "upset" about not yet featuring more prominently for Milan this season, coach Ruben Amorim admitted before hinting that the winger is likely to get more playing time The manager's comments suggested that Pulisic's frustration is understood internally, even if his bench role has raised eyebrows among supporters. Milan's comeback also highlighted the attacking depth at Amorim's disposal, with Moreira's quickfire double demonstrating the threat the substitutes can pose.
Championship and EFL: West Ham's Statement Win, Swansea's Rise
West Ham United produced a statement performance in the Championship, running rampant in a 6-0 rout of Wrexham that inflicted the heaviest defeat of the Ryan Reynolds and Rob Mac era on the Welsh club. Wrexham suffered their heaviest loss under the Hollywood ownership, with the Hammers demonstrating the gulf in class between the two sides. The result underlined West Ham's promotion credentials and left Wrexham facing a period of reflection after a chastening evening. Nuno Espirito Santo believes the size of the Hammers' home crowds is a big advantage in the Championship, with the London Stadium atmosphere cited as a factor in their impressive start. The West Ham head coach's comments came after the comprehensive victory that sent a message to the rest of the division. In other Championship action, Swansea moved back into the automatic promotion places with a 3-1 win over Burnley, piling more misery on new Clarets boss Nicky Hayen, whose side slumped to the bottom of the table. The result leaves Burnley already facing a relegation battle, while Swansea's promotion push gathers momentum. Middlesbrough edged a seven-goal thriller against Norwich, with Ashley Phillips the unlikely late match-winner in a 4-3 victory at the Riverside Stadium. The dramatic encounter was one of the games of the weekend, with both sides trading blows before Phillips settled it late on. Southampton hammered Bristol City 4-1 at St Mary's, with Cyle Larin scoring twice in a comprehensive victory that boosted the Saints' promotion hopes. Stoke secured their first away win since January with a deserved 2-1 success at Watford, Jack McGlynn orchestrating the victory. Blackburn claimed a much-needed 3-1 win over Millwall at Ewood Park, with Dapo Afolayan's brace helping to ease the pressure on the home side. West Brom came from behind to draw 1-1 against QPR at The Hawthorns, Callum Styles earning a point for the Baggies. Bolton ended a run of four successive Championship defeats with a 1-0 win over Cardiff, substitute Thierry Gale heading a 90th-minute winner. Birmingham won 2-1 at Derby, with Paik Seung-Ho scoring his first goal since December to give his side victory at Pride Park. Charlton maintained their unbeaten home record with a 0-0 draw against Portsmouth, while Lincoln earned a late 1-0 win at Preston, Freddie Draper coming off the bench to net the winner. Ipswich came from behind to secure their first Premier League away win since April 2025, beating 10-man Crystal Palace 3-2 in a dramatic encounter. The EFL's weekend talking points also drew analysis, with West Ham's dominance and Leicester's relief among the themes highlighted by BBC Final Score pundit Sam Parkin.
Premier League: Villa's Struggles Continue as Forest Strike Late
Aston Villa's difficult start to the season continued as they fell to a 2-1 defeat at home to Nottingham Forest, leaving boss Unai Emery still searching for answers. Emery is left searching after Villa lost three of their opening four Premier League games, a run that has raised serious questions about their prospects this season. The Villa Park defeat was compounded by the manner of the loss, with Forest scoring a late winner through Jesus to snatch all three points. Glasner haunted Emery again as Forest won at Villa Park, leaving the home side still searching for their first Premier League victory of the campaign. The result heaps pressure on Emery, who has struggled to find the right formula despite the club's significant investment in the squad. In team news ahead of the match, Forest were without key defenders, with no Milenkovic or Cunha available for the trip to Villa Park. The absences did little to disrupt Forest's game plan, as they produced a disciplined and clinical performance to claim a valuable away win. The result leaves Villa among the early-season strugglers, with Emery under increasing scrutiny as he attempts to arrest the slide.
Premier League: Bournemouth and Brentford Share the Spoils
Bournemouth's wait for a first Premier League win under Marco Rose continued as they were held to a 2-2 draw by Brentford, with Kevin Schade scoring twice for the visitors. Schade netted a double as Brentford twice came from behind to earn a point at the Vitality Stadium, leaving Rose still searching for his first win as head coach. The German manager has endured a difficult start to his tenure, and the draw did little to lift the mood despite his side twice taking the lead. The result leaves Bournemouth among the sides yet to register a victory this season, with Rose's methods yet to fully translate into results on the pitch. Brentford, meanwhile, will take encouragement from their resilience, with Schade's brace demonstrating the attacking threat they possess even when not at their best. The draw was a fair reflection of an evenly contested match, with both sides creating chances and showing defensive vulnerability at times.
Manchester United: Dalot's Belief and Questions Over Defensive Rebuild
After eight years at Old Trafford, Diogo Dalot still believes he can win the biggest trophies with Manchester United, even as another crucial derby looms. Dalot still believes in United's future despite the ups and downs of his time at the club, with the Portuguese defender expressing his desire to bring major silverware back to Old Trafford. His commitment comes at a time when the club faces renewed scrutiny over its recruitment strategy, with the Manchester derby providing an immediate test of their progress. Questions are being asked about whether United have made a mistake waiting to rebuild their defence, with the club's slow approach of prioritizing one position every summer leaving them light at the back. The strategy has drawn criticism from observers who believe United have fallen behind their rivals in addressing glaring weaknesses, and the upcoming derby could expose those deficiencies further. Dalot's optimism stands in contrast to the broader concerns about the club's direction, with the defender's eight-year tenure having yielded far fewer trophies than he would have hoped. The derby represents a significant opportunity for United to prove their critics wrong, but it also serves as a reminder of the work still to be done.
US Open: Rybakina Dethrones Sabalenka to Claim Maiden Title
Elena Rybakina cemented her position as world No 1 by dethroning two-time US Open winner Aryna Sabalenka to seal her maiden title in New York. Rybakina won the US Open and became world No, a victory that caps a remarkable rise for the Kazakhstani player. The final was a blockbuster encounter between two of the biggest hitters in the women's game, with Rybakina's power and composure proving decisive. Sabalenka took on Rybakina in the highly anticipated final, with the two-time champion unable to find the answers to her opponent's relentless hitting. The match lived up to its billing, with both players trading blows before Rybakina pulled away to claim the title. On the men's side, Ben Shelton finds himself in unfamiliar territory after reaching his first Grand Slam final, with the American ready to "do it for the USA" when he takes on top seed Alexander Zverev. Shelton defeated compatriot Frances Tiafoe in an electric semi-final to secure the showdown with Zverev, a result that delighted the home crowd. There was also double success for Britain at the US Open, with Alfie Hewett and Neal Skupski clinching respective wheelchair singles and men's doubles titles on Saturday. Hewett regained his wheelchair singles crown, while Skupski finally claimed the men's doubles title after years of near misses.
World Athletics: Hodgkinson Settles for Silver in 800m
Keely Hodgkinson settled for silver in a hotly anticipated women's 800m final at the World Athletics Championships, with her Swiss rival Audrey Werro taking the title. Hodgkinson fell short as Werro won the 800m, denying the British athlete the gold medal she had targeted. The race was expected to be one of the highlights of the championships, and it delivered on its promise with a fiercely contested final lap. Hodgkinson's silver adds to her growing collection of major championship medals, but the British star will be disappointed not to have gone one better. Werro's victory represents a significant breakthrough for the Swiss athlete, who has emerged as a serious contender on the global stage.
Darts: Van Gerwen Knocked Out in Antwerp
Michael van Gerwen is out of the Flanders Darts Trophy after Damon Heta edged a tight second-round clash in Antwerp, with neither player losing a leg against the throw. Van Gerwen was knocked out by Heta in a match that went down to the wire, with the Australian claiming a notable scalp. The defeat continues a frustrating period for the Dutchman, who has struggled for consistency on the European tour this season. Nathan Aspinall also shone at the event, with the Englishman producing an impressive display to progress. Meanwhile, Phil Taylor stirred debate by suggesting that an amateur could beat Luke Littler in a single leg, with the 16-time world champion arguing that the format gives underdogs a genuine chance. Taylor's comments add another layer of intrigue to the ongoing debate about Littler's dominance and the depth of talent in the sport.
Solheim Cup: USA Pull Level with Europe After Kupcho Heroics
Team Europe are tied 8-8 with Team USA heading into the Sunday singles at the Solheim Cup, after late heroics from Jennifer Kupcho levelled the contest. USA pulled level with Europe after the late drama, with Maja Stark and Linn Grant continuing their perfect start while Charley Hull and Lottie Woad struggled. The momentum shifted dramatically on Saturday, setting up a tantalising final day of singles matches. Europe moved into the lead after the Saturday foursomes, with Stark and Grant ending Nelly Korda and Allisen Corpuz's unbeaten partnership to help their side into a 7-5 advantage. However, the Americans fought back to level the scores, with Kupcho's contribution proving decisive. Europe lead USA 7-5 despite the thrashing of Woad and Hull, with the European pair enduring a difficult day in the foursomes. The contest remains finely poised, with everything to play for in the Sunday singles. Anna Nordqvist insisted that Charley Hull's game is "right where it needs to be" and kept faith in the Englishwoman by sending her out first for Team Europe in the Sunday singles. Nordqvist's backing represents a significant show of confidence in Hull, who will be determined to repay her captain's trust.
Formula 1: Norris Takes Pole at Madring as Hamilton Crashes
Lando Norris produced a stunning lap to beat Kimi Antonelli to the first pole position at Formula 1's all-new Madring circuit in a thrilling Spanish Grand Prix qualifying session. Norris produced a "masterpiece" to beat Antonelli to pole, with the British driver mastering the unfamiliar circuit to claim the top spot. The session was closely contested, with Antonelli continuing his impressive form in the championship battle. Lewis Hamilton's preparations were disrupted by a crash in final practice, with the seven-time champion losing valuable track time ahead of qualifying. Championship leader Antonelli was fastest in that session, underlining his status as the man to beat this weekend. George Russell believes the first race at the Madring could swing one of two extreme ways, while Hamilton admitted he does not know what exactly to expect heading into Sunday's race. The unknown nature of the circuit has added an element of unpredictability to the weekend. Mercedes chief Toto Wolff dismissed suggestions from "couch warriors" that the Silver Arrows failed to treat Russell fairly during the Italian Grand Prix, defending his team's strategy. Charles Leclerc was fastest in final practice as Hamilton crashed, with the Ferrari driver laying down a marker ahead of qualifying.
Cricket: England Sweep Pakistan Despite Early Scare
England clinched a first home series whitewash of Pakistan despite an early scare, chasing down 130 on day four of the third Test at Edgbaston. Root steered England to the series sweep after the hosts had been reduced to two down in calamitous fashion during their pursuit of a modest target. The early wobble briefly raised hopes of an unlikely Pakistan victory, but England's experienced batsmen steadied the ship. England collapsed to two wickets down early in their chase, with Pakistan sensing an opportunity to salvage something from the series. However, the target proved too small, and England recovered to complete a comprehensive series victory. The whitewash represents a significant achievement for the England side, who have now won every match of the home summer against Pakistan.
Scottish Football: Old Firm Derby Preview and League Cup Action
The first Old Firm meeting of the season takes centre stage this weekend, with Rangers and Celtic set to face off in the Premier Sports Cup quarter-finals at Ibrox. BBC Scotland previews the crucial clash, which comes amid a backdrop of no away fans, European calamities and derby debuts for several new signings. The match represents a significant early-season test for both clubs, with the winner taking a major psychological advantage. In other Scottish League Cup action, Hibernian cruised past Ross County with a convincing 3-0 victory in Dingwall to reach the semi-finals. Aberdeen and Hibs both made it through to the last four, with 10-man Aberdeen heaping misery on Kilmarnock. Celtic's Benjamin Nygren also made headlines, revealing summer transfer interest as Rangers ruled out a move to Saudi Arabia for Nico Raskin.
Horse Racing: Osborne Makes History at Doncaster
Saffie Osborne made history at Doncaster as she became the first female jockey to win a British Classic, steering Highwayman to victory in the 250th Betfred St Leger. Osborne made history with the landmark victory, a moment that will be remembered as a significant milestone for the sport. The 250th running of the St Leger provided a fitting stage for the achievement. Enceladus took on the Ballydoyle duo of Christmas Day and Pierre Bonnard in the latest renewal of the St Leger, with the field producing a compelling contest. Hollie Doyle previewed the final day of the St Leger Festival at Doncaster, with the Sky Sports Racing ambassador also to top-quality action on Champions' Weekend at The Curragh.
Rugby, Boxing and Other Sport
South Africa scored a spectacular try against the All Blacks in Baltimore, with the match broadcast live. South Africa scored a super try against New Zealand in a fixture that brought international rugby to the United States. In boxing, Conor Benn must prove he belongs at world level in this weekend's fight against Ryan Garcia, though Johnny Nelson believes the WBC champion might be too fast and too sharp. The fight represents a significant step up for Benn, who has long been criticised for the level of his opposition. In women's football, West Ham claimed their first Women's Super League win of the season with a 2-1 home victory over London City Lionesses. In rugby union, England's Red Roses are warned there is "so much more to come" as they continue their WXV campaign.
Transfer News and Broader Football Stories
The transfer window may be closed, but speculation continues to swirl around several high-profile players. Arda Guler could reportedly extend his contract with Real Madrid, while Richarlison is eyeing an exit from Tottenham to Vasco da Gama. The Premier League's spending power over Europe remains a dominant theme, with Barcola's big move from PSG to Liverpool highlighting another summer in which English clubs effectively subsidized big European leagues such as Ligue. Leicester City's sad descent to English football's third tier, barely a decade after their stunning Premier League win and Champions League debut, raises questions about whether there is a way back for the fallen champions. Elversberg, the small-town team shaking up German soccer, saw their coach cleared to face Bayern Munich after a referee admitted he made a mistake sending him off. Fenerbahce coach Ismail Kartal returned to his duties on Saturday, contradicting media reports from the day before suggesting his resignation was final. In the USMNT pool, fringe players with 2030 World Cup hopes include Luna and Musah, who missed this year's tournament but may get another chance in four years. San Diego Wave FC signed Barbara Bonansea on loan from Juventus through June 2027. On-loan Real Madrid winger Franco Mastantuono eclipsed Lionel Messi as the youngest Argentine player to score a hat trick in Europe's top five leagues. Manchester City's new captain Ruben Dias said the club's summer signings are "desperate to win" and that the squad is buying into new manager Enzo Maresca's ideas. Lauren Hemp has already achieved more than most footballers at the age of, with the Manchester City forward building a legacy at the club. Anthony Gordon's £70M move to Barcelona was questioned by some, but the England winger is already proving his worth for the free-scoring Spanish giants. Jordan Pickford joined the Premier League clean sheet 100 club, becoming one of an elite group of goalkeepers to reach the milestone. The weekend's Premier League action also featured live updates across the fixtures, while Championship, League One and League Two matches were covered across Sky Sports. Tottenham host Everton in their Premier League fixture on September 12, with the match available to watch live. For those the weekend soccer preview examined whether Madrid can bounce back and who will win the Manchester derby.