Portugal: Cristiano Ronaldo controversy rumbles on

The controversy between Cristiano Ronaldo and Jorge Jesus continues, following the lengthy statement released by the forward on Tuesday. Ronaldo explained his decision to leave the Portugal squad and accused his coach of breaking his word. The affair dominated the headlines in the Portuguese press, overshadowing Portugal’s four Nations League victories. The media are questioning his future while Ronaldo insists he wants to continue playing for the Seleçao.

Lionel Messi admitted he was already missing the Argentina jersey after his final match for the Albiceleste, a 3-0 win over Benin.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) is hearing the appeal this Thursday against the CAF decision to award the Africa Cup of Nations to Morocco (3-0), following Senegal’s on-field victory (1-0 after extra time).

In cycling, Primoz Roglic won the European time trial ahead of Bruno Armirail and Maxime Decomble, while Marlen Reusser claimed her fifth women’s title, ahead of Demi Vollering and Juliette Berthet.

In the EuroLeague, ASVEL beat Paris 98-96, with Patty Mills scoring 21 points and Nadir Hifi 30.

At the Shanghai Masters 1000, Arthur Gea, Adrian Mannarino and Quentin Halys all won their first-round matches.

In Beijing, Coco Gauff was knocked out by Elise Mertens, 6-3, 6-3. The Belgian will face Iga Swiatek in the quarter-finals.