Orleans Masters: Justin, Ling Ching secure wins in extra time

Justin Hoh and Wong Ling Ching scored wins in extra time to secure a place in the second round of the Orleans Masters on Wednesday.

Football

Iran continuing World Cup preparations but will not play in US, says soccer chief

March 19 (Reuters) - The Iranian national team are continuing to prepare for the World Cup finals and have no intention of pulling out of the tournament even if they will not travel to the United States, soccer chief Mehdi Taj said on Wednesday.

Football

Iranian women's soccer team arrive back in Iran after some withdrew asylum claim

GURBULAK, Turkey, March 18 (Reuters) - The Iranian women's soccer team crossed the Turkish border into Iran on Wednesday to complete a fraught return journey from Australia, after five members withdrew asylum claims they had lodged there.

Football

Barcelona hit seven past Newcastle to roar into Champions League quarters

BARCELONA, March 18 (Reuters) - Barcelona stormed into the Champions League quarter-finals with a thumping 7-2 victory over Newcastle United at Camp Nou on Wednesday, sealing an emphatic 8-3 aggregate triumph in a compelling round-of-16 tie.

Football

Kane reaches 50 Champions League goals as Bayern beat Atalanta to book last eight spot

MUNICH, Germany, March 18 (Reuters) - Forward Harry Kane scored twice as Bayern Munich crushed Atalanta 4-1 on Wednesday, for an aggregate 10-2 demolition, to reach the Champions League last eight.

Football

Atletico survive scare at Tottenham to reach quarter-finals

LONDON, March 18 (Reuters) - Atletico Madrid withstood a rousing Tottenham Hotspur fightback to reach the Champions League quarter-final with a 7-5 aggregate victory despite a 3-2 loss in north London on Wednesday.