Arsenal struck first when Kai Havertz found the net in the sixth minute. PSG responded in the second half through Ousmane Dembele, who converted a penalty in the 65th minute after Khvicha Kvaratskhelia was fouled inside the box.

The French champions pushed for a winner late in regulation, with Kvaratskhelia hitting the post and Vitinha narrowly missing the target. Arsenal also survived a late scare when Bradley Barcola squandered a clear opportunity in stoppage time.

Neither side could find a breakthrough in extra time, sending the final to penalties.

Goncalo Ramos and Desire Doue scored PSG’s opening spot kicks, while Arsenal’s Eberechi Eze missed his attempt. Although David Raya saved Nuno Mendes’ penalty, Achraf Hakimi and Lucas Beraldo converted to keep PSG in control.

After Gabriel Martinelli leveled the shootout at 3-3, Beraldo calmly scored PSG’s fifth penalty. Arsenal defender Gabriel then missed the decisive kick, firing over the crossbar and handing PSG a successful title defense.

“A Team Is Working on the Managerial Process”

Speaking about the search for a new head coach, Yıldırım said a dedicated team has been formed to handle the process.

“We established a team for this matter and the work is ongoing. For now, I can only mention Oğuz Çetin by name, but there is also a group made up of our former athletes working on the project,” he said.

“Talks Started Before My Candidacy”

Yıldırım stated that negotiations with managerial candidates began before he officially announced his candidacy.

“We held meetings before becoming a candidate. This process did not start afterwards,” he explained.

“Our Priority Is Two Strikers”

Addressing transfer plans, Yıldırım revealed that signing two forwards is the club’s main target.

“The team’s needs are clear. Our first priority will be bringing in two strikers,” he said.

“We Will Reach Agreements by June 30”

Yıldırım also confirmed that important meetings were held in England regarding transfers.

“We will have reached agreements by June 30. However, we will not make any announcements at this stage,” he said.

“In the past, we suffered from interference in the process. There were people trying to disrupt negotiations, so this time we will wait before speaking publicly.”

“We Are Returning Stronger Than in 1998”

Confident about the club’s future plans, Yıldırım claimed the current project is stronger than the one launched during his first presidency era.

“We are returning from England with big news. We are coming back even stronger than in 1998. We are working very well right now and we have an excellent team,” he stated.

“A Different Process Began After July 3”

Yıldırım also referred to the controversial July 3 match-fixing investigations period, claiming Fenerbahçe was deliberately targeted through various operations.

“After July 3, a completely different process began. They saw Fenerbahçe as an obstacle. Through Ergenekon, Balyoz, Odatv and various operations, they tried to destroy Fenerbahçe. They tried to stop us, but they were unsuccessful,” he said.

Yıldırım’s remarks from London are expected to create significant discussion among Fenerbahçe supporters and the wider football community.

In a game played as the curtain-raiser to the EuroLeague Championship Game for the very first time, neither team led ever by more than 5 points until Barca’s added physicality proved decisive in the closing possessions. The Blaugrana claimed the title for the second time, and the first in ten years.

Nikola Kusturica was the chief inspiration, returning from injury to lead his team with a double-double of 20 points and 10 rebounds. Joaquim Boumtje-Boumtje added 17 points, while Jakob Siftar and Mohamed Dabone both scored 10. Egor Amosov paced Real with 16 points, Fabian Kaiser scored 14, Gunars Grinvalds netted 13 and Ilia Frolov contributed 11.

Three-pointers from Kusturica and Diego Ferreras gave Barca the early advantage, but 6 fast points from Grinvalds brought Real level, 8-8. Kayser and Kusturica traded triples to keep it close, before Siftar stepped up with 5 points, but Andrej Bjelic hit back from deep to help make it 22-24 after ten minutes.

Ousmane Diarra started the second quarter with a highlight reel dunk, but Boumtje-Boumtje answered with his first score to edge Barca back in front. Siftar stayed hot with a pair of close-range finishes, but Amosov’s three and Osa Hadi’s fastbreak layup in a 9-0 run sent Real back ahead, 36-31. Nil Poza’s triple changed the momentum, and Kusturica’s putback made it 38-39 at the break.

Amosov opened the second half hot with a threeball and a layup, but close-range scores from Dabone and Kusturica forced another tie, 43-43. Poza hit his second triple and Mohamed Keita scored 5 fast points for a 47-51 lead, before a long-range barrage from Amosov, Frolov, Bjelic and Boumtje-Boumtje gave Real a small advantage, 62-60, at the end of the third.

A low-scoring start to the final period led to Amosov’s three-point play immediately being bettered by 5 points for Kusturica, making it 67-68 heading into the final five minutes. Boumtje-Boumtje and Grinvalds traded three-point strikes, before Ferreras scored at the rim for a 72-77 advantage. Kusturica protected the lead from the foul line, but Kayser kept Real hoping with a three, 77-79. Ferreras added a layup, and Barca’s defense did the rest.

Qualification for the 2026 World Cup represents one of the most important moments in Turkish football over the last decades. An achievement built through planning, consistent work, and a new international mentality that has allowed the Turkish national team to become competitive again at the highest level.

Behind this journey is also the work of Italian coach Vincenzo Montella, who in a short time has become one of the symbols of Turkey’s football renaissance. With balance, tactical discipline, and great ability in managing the group, Montella succeeded in transforming a young and talented squad into a credible, modern, and ambitious national team.

Turkish fans are now dreaming of a new achievement similar to the one in 2002. Enthusiasm is growing every day not only in Turkey, but also in the United States, where major preparations are already underway ahead of the World Cup tournament. Thousands of supporters will arrive from Europe and Turkey to follow the national team and support Montella and his players during their World Cup journey.

In the United States, a large logistical and institutional organization surrounding the presence of the Turkish national team has already begun. An important role in this process is attributed to Çağrı Kanver, Vice President of the External Relations Council of the Turkish Football Federation and regional representative in the United States.

According to sources close to the federation, Kanver had already begun working with a clear vision two years ago, when İbrahim Ethem Hacıosmanoğlu was elected President of the Turkish Football Federation. The objective was clear: to prepare the international future of the national team and build a strong Turkish presence in the United States ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Based mainly between New York City and Miami, Cagri Kanver is now considered one of the emerging figures in the landscape of international sports diplomacy. An entrepreneur active in real estate development, innovation, culture, and sports, he has contributed to strengthening the connections between Turkish football and the American continent.

His vision concerns not only the present of the national team, but above all the future of new generations. Through sports projects and international relations, Kanver has for years supported the discovery of young Turkish talents in the United States and across the American continent, convinced that modern football must increasingly embrace a global dimension.

According to people close to his projects, Kanver considers talent a heritage to be protected through modern infrastructure, international education, and global networks capable of creating new opportunities for young athletes.

Alongside sports, he also continues to invest in architecture, contemporary art, and cultural innovation, building a modern entrepreneurial model in which business, culture, and social development coexist within a single international vision.

Turkey’s qualification for the 2026 World Cup therefore represents much more than a sporting result. It is the symbol of a new generation, a new organization, and a new international mentality that looks to the future with ambition.

Twenty-four years after that historic night in 2002, the Turkish people are dreaming again. And this time, they want to experience the World Cup not only as protagonists, but as a possible surprise of world football.

Turkish international Enes Ünal came off the bench in the 89th minute for Bournemouth.

The result allowed Arsenal to move four points clear at the top with only one match left to play, sealing their first league title since the 2003-04 campaign.

Under the guidance of Spanish manager Mikel Arteta, Arsenal claimed the 14th league title in the club’s history.

Semifinal A: OLYMPIACOS PIRAEUS – FENERBAHCE BEKO ISTANBUL will tip-off at 18:00 local time (15:00 GMT)

Semifinal B: VALENCIA BASKET – REAL MADRID will tip-off at 21:00 local time (18:00 GMT)

Olympiacos Piraeus vs. Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul

Tip-off: 18:00 local time (15:00 GMT)
The opening semifinal promises an electric atmosphere as Greek giants Olympiacos face Turkish powerhouse Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul. With passionate fanbases and championship pedigree on both sides, this matchup could become one of the defining games of the season.

Semifinal B
Valencia Basket vs. Real Madrid
Tip-off: 21:00 local time (18:00 GMT)
The second semifinal features an all-Spanish showdown between Valencia Basket and Real Madrid. Valencia continues its rise among Europe’s elite, while Real Madrid enters the Final Four once again carrying its unmatched legacy and championship expectations.

Athens Ready for Europe’s Biggest Basketball Weekend

The 2026 EuroLeague Final Four Athens presented by Etihad is expected to draw thousands of fans from across the continent, transforming the city into the center of European basketball for the weekend. With high-profile rivalries, elite talent, and a championship berth on the line, the semifinal night on 22 May promises drama, intensity, and unforgettable moments on the road to the EuroLeague title.

The first female presenter of UEFA Champions League broadcasts

Murati made history in her country as the first female presenter to host UEFA Champions League broadcasts. For more than a decade, she has been a key figure of prime-time programming on Tring TV. This success earned her the nickname “Champions Girl,” which has since evolved into a strong personal brand.

More than just a sports presenter

What sets Eva Murati apart is not only her on-screen success. With a background in law, she brings analytical depth to her communication style. Her ability to convey the atmosphere of matches, the excitement of the crowd, and the emotional rhythm of the game places her beyond traditional sports presenting, representing a modern and dynamic narrative approach.

In addition to sports broadcasting, Murati has also appeared in culture and entertainment programs, making her a symbol of a multifaceted success story for Balkan youth.

A powerful figure in the digital age

Murati’s influence extends far beyond television. With over 1.4 million followers on Instagram and a total digital reach exceeding 2 million, she stands out as a powerful figure in the new media landscape. Her social media presence reaches millions, transforming her into not just a presenter but also a regional media phenomenon.

A bridge between journalism and diplomacy

The Euro-Mediterranean Journalism Awards aim to strengthen dialogue and cooperation among countries in the region while promoting accurate and responsible journalism. In an increasingly complex global communication environment, the role of media in maintaining intercultural balance has become more critical than ever.

With numerous diplomatic representatives expected to attend, this year’s ceremony will once again highlight the strategic importance of journalism in international dialogue. The event will be hosted by RAI journalist Roberto Ammendola.

A success story from the Balkans to Europe

Eva Murati’s rise represents not only an individual career achievement but also the transformation of the Balkan media landscape. Her journey from local screens to international recognition continues to inspire a new generation of journalists. With the prestigious ceremony taking place in Rome on May 4, Murati is set to make her mark once again on the Euro-Mediterranean media stage.

If you want, I can also make it more “news agency style” (shorter, punchier) or adapt it for a specific outlet like Reuters/AP tone.

Fans once again responded in massive numbers, reaffirming the immense global anticipation for European basketball’s premier event. The speed at which each sales phase sold out highlights the unmatched appeal of the Final Four, as fans from across Europe and beyond secured their place in Athens for the season’s ultimate showdown.

With demand consistently exceeding supply throughout all four sales phases, the 2026 edition is set to be one of the most sought-after Final Fours in EuroLeague history.

Fans are encouraged to stay tuned to official EuroLeague channels for any further updates or information regarding the event.

In statements to the European press, Musa described himself as “a London-born Turkish Cypriot strength athlete,” emphasizing that his achievement carries great personal meaning as well as significance for his community.

90-day continuous strength challenge

Musa’s record-breaking program was as follows:

• Days 1–60: 300 kg farmer’s walk every day
• Days 61–90: 220 kg squat every day
• Total: 90 consecutive days with no rest days

The athlete described the process as “a continuous and extremely intense test of strength,” saying he constantly pushed himself beyond his limits.

Musa stated:

“With this major strength challenge I recently completed, I achieved a world record. The challenge had such a big impact that the Islington Tribune covered it.”

“As a Turkish Cypriot athlete, it is a great honour for me to represent the Turkish community in London.”

Strongman career

Musa, who began strength sports six years ago, says he has been involved in sports since childhood and was raised by a father with a professional boxing background. He is currently taking a break from his career to prepare for professional strongman competitions.

Musa’s story is being seen as a notable achievement in both endurance sports and for Turkish Cypriot diaspora athletes.

According to a formal message delivered on behalf of USSI President Gianfranco Coppola, Erdoğan’s work was described as extending beyond sport, encompassing a broader cultural mission that connects heritage with universal values. Coppola emphasized that in an increasingly globalized world, traditional sports play a key role in maintaining societies’ links to their past, preserving rituals, lifestyles, and collective memory.

The message further underlined that initiatives such as Etnospor contribute not only to the sporting landscape but also to strengthening intercultural understanding and reinforcing shared human values. Coppola, who was unable to attend the forum due to official commitments, expressed support for the event and voiced confidence that future projects under the “Ethnosports 2027” vision would further expand international cooperation.

The plaque was formally presented on Coppola’s behalf by Dündar Kesaplı, who has roles in international relations within the Italian Sports Press Union.

Organizers and participants at the Antalya forum framed the gathering as more than a sporting event, describing it as a platform where culture, identity, and heritage intersect. Traditional sports were highlighted as instruments not only of physical activity but also of cultural expression and continuity, with proponents arguing they can serve as bridges between generations and across societies.

The recognition comes amid broader efforts by cultural and sports organizations to elevate traditional and indigenous sports onto the international stage, positioning them alongside mainstream sporting disciplines while preserving their distinct historical and social significance.

Dündar Keşaplı is a Turkish journalist and international sports media figure who has been based in Italy for many years. He works as a correspondent for TRT Spor and A Spor, covering sports and cultural topics. Keşaplı is recognized for his efforts in fostering intercultural communication, building bridges between Mediterranean and European communities, and promoting dialogue through media. He has also been honored for his contributions to cultural and sports communication, highlighting his role in strengthening understanding between institutions, journalists, and societies.

Montella: “We Are Ready to Face Europe’s Best”

Speaking after the draw, Turkey’s head coach Vincenzo Montella expressed his satisfaction at competing against strong opponents. “First of all, we are happy to be facing some of the best teams in Europe,” Montella said, emphasizing that it is natural for League A to feature high-intensity and highly competitive matches.

The Italian coach described the competition as an important test and development opportunity for Turkey, adding that facing Italy carries special emotional significance for him personally.

Montella also referred to the crucial upcoming match against Romania, stating, “These kinds of matches are almost like finals. Being physically and mentally at our best will be decisive.”

The experienced manager concluded his remarks by saying, “We believe in ourselves. We know we need to perform at the highest level, and we are preparing accordingly.”

The first ticket sales phase opened on February 11 at 10:00 CET and, within less than 5 minutes, overwhelming demand exhausted the entire allocation.

Fans who were unable to secure tickets during Phase 1 will still have multiple opportunities to attend European basketball’s premier event. The second public ticket sales phase will open on February 26 at 10:00 CET. The third phase will tip off on March 17 at 10:00 CEST, coinciding with the conclusion of the Regular Season, as ten teams remain in the race for a Final Four spot. The final sales phase will begin on April 20 at 10: 00 CEST, strategically positioned between the end of the Play-In Showdown and the start of the Playoffs series.

Each ticket sales phase will feature a limited allocation across multiple price categories, offering fans several opportunities to purchase tickets and ensuring broader access to the event.

Additionally, Euroleague Basketball will open a special sales window on Wednesday, February 11 at 17:00 CET for fans who experienced technical issues that prevented them from completing their ticket purchase during February 10th general public pre-sale window.

All affected fans will receive an email before the special general public ticket sale window opens containing an updated link, along with a personal and non-transferable code granting access to this special sales window.

Please note that fans who purchase tickets in one sales phase will not be eligible to participate in subsequent sales phases.

Euroleague Basketball sincerely apologizes for the inconvenience and confirms that this special window will ensure a fair and equal purchasing process for all eligible fans.

The 2026 EuroLeague Final Four semifinals will be played on Friday, May 22, at 18:00 and 21:00 local time (17:00 and 20:00 CEST). On Sunday, May 24, the adidas NextGen EuroLeague Championship Game will tip off at 18:00 local time (17:00 CEST), while the season will culminate with the Championship Game, at 21:00 local time (20:00 CEST), when a new EuroLeague champion will be crowned.

All ticketing details for the 2026 EuroLeague Final Four Athens presented by Etihad are available at https://euroleaguef4tickets.com/en/

Bueno, 56, was unanimously elected by the Euroleague Commercial Assets (ECA) Board of Directors and will succeed Paulius Motiejunas, who was named CEO in June 2022. Chus Bueno will lead Euroleague Basketball’s overall strategy, with a strong focus on business growth, enhancing the game and fan experience, and expanding into new markets and audiences, while maximizing the value delivered to clubs, partners, players and fans. His mandate is to continue building on the success achieved over the past 25 seasons and to further position the EuroLeague, the BKT EuroCup and the NextGen EuroLeague as the undisputed premier basketball competitions in Europe.

Bueno brings more than 30 years of experience and strategic leadership within the professional sports ecosystem. His career has been closely linked to basketball, both on and off the court. He made his professional playing debut with FC Barcelona during the 1988–89 season and went on to compete for eight seasons with five additional clubs, including Atlético de Madrid and Valencia Basket. Following his retirement as a player, Bueno transitioned into executive and management roles within the basketball industry.

He began his off-court career at the Spanish Basketball Players Association (ABP) before joining the Spanish Basketball Federation (FEB) in 2006 as Executive Director. During his tenure, the Spanish National Team experienced one of the most successful periods in its history, winning the 2006 FIBA World Championship and the 2009 EuroBasket, as well as earning silver medals at the 2008 Olympic Games and the 2007 EuroBasket.

Bueno later joined the National Basketball Association (NBA), where he served as Vice President, Europe, Africa and Middle East, and Managing Director of NBA Spain. After 12 years with the NBA, he moved to Legends, the global leader in venue management and hospitality, where he was Managing Director of the company’s Iberian operations.

Most recently, Bueno led the creation and development of the basketball vertical at DAZN, the global sports OTT platform, further reinforcing his expertise in media, digital transformation, and fan engagement within the modern sports landscape.

The clubs would like to express their gratitude to Paulius Motiejunas for his service, commitment and dedication during his tenure. Under his guidance, the organization has achieved important milestones and continuous growth that have helped strengthen its position within the basketball ecosystem. The ECA Board of Directors, on behalf of all Euroleague Basketball clubs wish him every success in his future professional endeavors.

The Board of Directors remains fully committed to Euroleague Basketball’s mission of promoting excellence, innovation, and sustainable growth across European basketball.

Organisers said Keşaplı was honoured for his reporting, interviews and analysis that have helped bring Italian sport to international audiences, particularly in the run-up to the Milan–Cortina Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, set to take place in February.

Speaking at the ceremony, Keşaplı described sport as “a universal language that goes beyond competition” and highlighted the role of international media in shaping global understanding.

He said the Milan–Cortina Games would present Italy to the world not only through sport, but also through its culture, sustainability goals and winter sports heritage.

The two-day summit brought together leading figures from sport and journalism, including Paralympic champion Martina Caironi, former Juventus and AC Milan footballer Marco Borriello, European record-holder Filippo Tortu, Italian Coaches Association president Renzo Ulivieri, and Giancarlo Antonioni, a member of Italy’s 1982 World Cup-winning team.

The event focused on the future of sports journalism and the growing role of international media ahead of major global sporting events.

Despite Kendrick Nunn of Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens posting the highest PIR of the round (40), his team lost 82-87 at home to archrival Olympiacos Piraeus. Nunn scored 32 points on 8-of-8 two-pointers, 3-of-8 three-pointers, and 7-of-7 free throws, adding 5 rebounds, 6 assists, 2 steals and 6 fouls drawn.

Nadir Hifi of Paris Basketball recorded a PIR of 30 in his team's 94-89 road loss against LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne, scoring 26 points. Hifi also added 4 rebounds, 7 assists and 10 fouls drawn.

Other top individual performances in Round 19 include Nick Weiler-Babb of Anadolu Efes Istanbul with a PIR of 28, as well as Jordan Nwora of Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade, David McCormack of FC Bayern Munich and Nikola Milutinov of Olympiacos, each with a PIR of 27. Weiler-Babb had 17 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, 5 steals and 4 fouls drawn in Efes’s 65-87 defeat to Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade, a game that saw Nwora post 24 points, 5 rebounds, 1 assist, 2 steals and 2 fouls drawn for the visitors. McCormack amassed 18 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal and 8 fouls drawn as Bayern beat Maccabi 95-71, while Milutinov recorded 10 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal, 1 block and 4 fouls drawn in Olympiacos’s 82-87 win at Panathinaikos in the Greek derby.

Individual highs: Kendrick Nunn, Panathinaikos, 32 points

Kendrick Nunn of Panathinaikos was the top scorer of the round with 32 points. Nadir Hifi of Paris currently leads the competition in scoring with an average of 20.0 points per game.

Three players grabbed 9 rebounds in Round 19: Sasha Vezenkov of Olympiacos, his teammate Nikola Milutinov, and Mbaye Ndiaye of ASVEL. Milutinov and Chima Moneke of Crvena Zvezda are tied for the lead in rebounds per game, each averaging 7.7.

Codi Miller-McIntyre of Crvena Zvezda dished out 9 assists, the most of anyone in Round 19. McKinley Wright of Dubai Basketball leads the EuroLeague in assists this season, averaging 6.9 per game.

Nick Weiler-Babb of Efes recorded 5 steals, leading the category for Round 19. Alpha Diallo of AS Monaco is currently ranked first overall with 1.7 steals per game.

Walter Tavares of Real Madrid had 4 blocks in this round. He also leads the league in blocks, averaging 2.1 per game.

There were no double-doubles in Round 19.

This partnership will harness the strength of Chelsea FC’s global footprint and worldwide fanbase to showcase Pegasus Airlines as it continues its expansion. Together, the two organisations will collaborate across key international markets, delivering innovative campaigns and experiences for supporters and customers around the world.

Pegasus Airlines Chief Commercial Officer, Onur Dedeköylü, said: “We are proud to partner with Chelsea FC, one of the most recognised and followed teams in the world of sport, with a truly global fanbase that mirrors our own international reach. The United Kingdom is also an important market for us, with services to five destinations and further growth planned. This partnership brings together two brands driven by ambition, energy and connection, and we look forward to working with Chelsea FC to create special campaigns and meaningful experiences for supporters and travellers alike.”

From Left to Right: Aki Mandhar – CEO of Chelsea FC Women, Onur Dedeköylü – CCO of Pegasus, Ahmet Bağdat – CMO of Pegasus, Todd Kline – President, Commercial of Chelsea FC

Speaking on the partnership, Oliver Boden, Partnership Sales Director for Chelsea Football Club, added: “Pegasus Airlines’ progress in recent years speaks for itself, their vision to transform the aviation industry and unlock the possibility of travel to so many is inspiring. The expansion of their fleet underlines the scale of their aspirations. We are proud to partner with Pegasus at this exciting time, to support them in the next stage of their journey and build a unique partnership together.”

Leandro Petersen, AFA’s Chief Commercial & Marketing Officer, highlighted the importance of strategic planning and professional management in the federation’s growth. “We’re not only focused on football results, but on building a global brand with identity, values, and a clear expansion strategy,” Petersen explained.

World Cup-winning goalkeeper Emiliano “Dibu” Martínez also attended, emphasizing the unique global connection between Argentine football and its fans. “The passion for our team knows no borders. Every jersey worn worldwide represents a shared identity,” he said.

Brand Finance revealed AFA’s value in the global sports market and highlighted the association’s strong sponsorship network, which positions it as the federation with the most global sponsors. Genius Sports joined the event to discuss the role of data, technology, and innovation in commercial growth.

The event, held with the support of Arsenal FC, demonstrated AFA’s commitment to global visibility and strategic partnerships, projecting Argentine football onto the world stage with a strong, sustainable commercial model.

Karolis Lukošiūnas led the way off the bench, knocking down five-of-six from beyond the arc for 15 points, repeatedly punishing defensive breakdowns and halting Surrey momentum.

“I know why I’m on the court — to shoot open shots and tough shots,” said Lukošiūnas. “I’m happy my teammates found me, and I was able to make those shots.”

Aaryn Rai chipped in 14 points, while Ethan Price was a steady interior presence with 13 points and six rebounds. Tarik Phillip calmly controlled the closing stages, finishing with 14 points and six assists.

Kino Lilly Jr. led a balanced Surrey starting unit with 22 points. The rest of the starting group — Isaiah Small, Michael Graham, Owen Koonce, and Ronald Polite III — also reached double figures. Despite that collective output, the 89ers’ bench contributed just nine points, limiting their ability to sustain runs late.

London established early rhythm through crisp pick-and-roll execution, highlighted by a Chasson Randle and Ethan Price connection for a dunk followed by a defensive shot-clock violation on the other end.

After Surrey endured an early scoring drought, Koonce sparked the visitors with two quick threes, but the Lions responded with strong perimeter shooting and pace, closing the first quarter ahead 27–19.

The period also marked the return of Shavar Reynolds Jr., back on the floor after seven weeks out.

The Lions built a 35–20 second-quarter lead through interior scoring before settling after a Surrey push to carry a 48–40 halftime advantage.

Surrey raised the intensity after halftime, trimming the deficit to 65–61 despite another timely three from Karolis Lukošiūnas.

The 89ers pulled within one midway through the fourth, but a poster from Deane Williams and a late three from Aaryn Rai helped London close out the 87–83 win.

On the defensive end, Lukošiūnas pointed to the collective effort while stressing the need for greater consistency.

“Just find ways to get stops,” he said. “Some things may happen that shouldn’t, but staying solid and helping each other defensively is what matters.”

The Lions now turn their attention to Wednesday night, returning to the Copper Box Arena to host EuroCup leaders Beşiktaş Gain Istanbul.

International Mediterranean Excellence Award: The “Oscar of the Mediterranean,” a Bridge Between Cultures, Sports, and Solidarity

Prestigious Patronages

The 2025 edition received the Patronage of the Ministry of Culture, the Ministry of Sports and Youth, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (Farnesina), as well as the support of CONI, USSI (Italian Sports Press Union), and AIPS Europe (International Sports Press Association).

These institutional recognitions confirm the growing importance of the Award as a platform for encounter among cultures, experiences, and diverse expressions, united by a shared vision of cooperation and progress throughout the Mediterranean area.

An Event of International Scope

The ceremony took place in Rome, in the evocative Sala Spadolini of the Ministry of Culture, attended by prominent figures from over twelve Mediterranean countries, including diplomats, ambassadors, consuls, sports executives, artists, musicians, entrepreneurs, and journalists.

Among the distinguished guests were Enas Mekkawy, Ambassador of the League of Arab States to Italy and the Vatican, numerous ambassadors and consuls from Mediterranean nations, and the Vice President of the Italian Supreme Court of Cassation. Their participation gave the event a strong symbolic value as a place of intercultural dialogue and cultural diplomacy.

Special Award “Luciano Pavarotti” In Memoriam

A particularly emotional moment came with the presentation of the Special “Luciano Pavarotti” Award In Memoriam, established to honor the legendary Italian tenor — a universal symbol of art, humanity, and dialogue among peoples.

The award was received by Nicoletta Mantovani Pavarotti, the Maestro’s widow, who sent a heartfelt message of gratitude, recalling Luciano Pavarotti’s lifelong commitment to spreading a message of peace, solidarity, and universal brotherhood through music.
Through this tribute, the Award sought to remember Pavarotti as a true ambassador of Italian culture worldwide and as a voice capable of uniting people beyond all borders.

The 2025 Honorees

Sports and International Diplomacy:
Servet Yardımcı – UEFA Executive Committee Member (Turkey);
Giuseppe Manfredi – President, Italian Volleyball Federation;
Antonio Fantin, Edoardo Giordan & Monica Boggioni – Olympic and Paralympic champions of Fiamme Oro;
Valentina Giacinti – Galatasaray footballer, Mediterranean Sports Ambassador;
Luis Figo, José Mourinho & Kenan Yıldız – Icons of European and world football.

Culture, Art and Research:
Nicoletta Mantovani – President, Luciano Pavarotti Foundation;
Ignacio Peyró Jiménez – Director, Cervantes Institute of Rome (Spain);
Ilhem Sbaii Chaabane – Artist and professor (Tunisia);
Hania Harrati – Fashion designer (Morocco);
Jelena Medaković – Director, Belgrade City Museum (Serbia);
Olen Cesari – International musician (Albania);
Josep Solé Coll – Principal organist, Papal Basilica of St. Peter (Vatican/Spain).

Institutions, Justice and Social Commitment:
Marcello Viola – Chief Prosecutor of Milan;
Maiello Tammaro – Section President, Court of Auditors;
Martina Semenzato – MP, President of the Parliamentary Committee on Femicide;
Immacolata Scognamiglio – Superintendent, Italian State Police, Institutional Communication Office;
Wael Farouq – Professor of Arabic Language and Literature, Catholic University of Milan;
Gabriele Pao Pei Andreoli – President, IASC & LiDU Ethical, Representative of the Pontifical Academy of Theology (Vatican State).

Entrepreneurship and Solidarity:
Domenico Scialabba & Maria Pizzillo – Sicilian entrepreneurs in social tourism;
Amirouche Noureddine – President, Un Bastone per l’Africa (Algeria);
Petros Kattou – Specialist in neuromodulation medicine.

A Message of Unity and Hope

The International Mediterranean Excellence Award – the “Oscar of the Mediterranean” once again proved to be a laboratory of ideas and relationships, capable of connecting different worlds through a shared commitment to peace, solidarity, and the promotion of human talent.

“The Mediterranean is the cradle of civilization, but also the heart of the future,” said founder Dündar Kesaplı. “This award aims to build bridges among peoples and nations through culture, sport, and dialogue.”
With its third edition, the Award has consolidated its status as one of the most significant cultural platforms on the international scene, strengthening ties among nations that share the same sea, the same history, and the same hope for a common future.

Osimhen gave Galatasaray the lead after 16 minutes when French referee Clement Turpin adjudged that Dominik Szoboszlai had fouled Baris Alper Yilmaz.

The goal came just 17 seconds after former Tottenham Hotspur defender Davinson Sanchez had cleared off the line from Cody Gakpo.Slot introduced Salah and Alexander Isak just after the hour in an attempt to salvage something but it was to no avail. Liverpool thought they would get the chance to rescue a point when referee Turpin pointed to the spot after Ibrahima Konate went down, but the decision was overturned following a video assistant referee review.

Liverpool player ratings

Liverpool: Alisson (7); Szoboszlai (4), Konate (5), Van Dijk (6), Kerkez (5); Gravenberch (4), Jones (5), Wirtz (5); Frimpong (6), Ekitike (5), Gakpo (6)

Subs: Mamardashvilli (6), Salah (6), Isak (5), Bradley (6), Mac Allister (6)

Player of the Match: Baris Alper Yilmaz (Galatasaray)

Galatasaray    1    -    0    Liverpool

 Possession: Galatasaray 33%-67% Liverpool

Shots: 9-16

Shots on target: 4-4

Corners: 3-7

Touches in opposition box: 17-33