Sports
Sports news from McAllen and the Rio Grande Valley.
SportsWorld Cup Tickets for $50? This US City Announces Special Lottery
NEW YORK – Want World Cup tickets for less than the price of an official jersey? Yes, you read that right. Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani announced on Thursday that New York City, in partnership with the NYNJ Host Committee, has secured 1,000 affordable tickets for the 2026 FIFA World Cup for just $50 each. And yes… the price includes free round-trip transportation to MetLife Stadium. The announcement took place in Little Senegal, Harlem, surrounded by African community leaders, residents, and elected officials wearing jerseys from various teams participating in the tournament. 'A World Cup is literally coming to our backyard, and we want to ensure that working New Yorkers have the opportunity to be a part of it,' Mamdani stated. 'Today, a thousand New Yorkers will be able to enter those stadiums for $50 and a free bus ride.' The program will cover five group stage matches and two knockout matches, with approximately 150 tickets available for each game. Details of NYC's World Cup lottery and how to apply: Registration opens on Monday, May 25, at 10 a.m. and closes on Saturday, May 30, at midnight. You must register at: regnyctix.com. Only NYC residents aged 15 and older can participate. Each person may enter once per day. There will be a daily limit of 50,000 entries. Winners will be selected at random, and results will be announced on June 3. Each winner can purchase up to two tickets. Winners will be notified via email on June 3. If you are lucky in this lottery, you will have 48 hours to purchase two tickets for $50. You cannot pick them up immediately, but only on the day of the game, and you must do so in person. Mayor Mamdani added that the tickets will be delivered directly to the winners at the bus boarding stop. According to The Athletic, the tickets will be for several matches to be held at MetLife Stadium, although they will not include the grand final on July 19. The outlet also reported that Mamdani secured this deal after meeting months ago at City Hall with FIFA President Gianni Infantino. The FIFA World Cup 2026 will take place from June 11 to July 19. So there is still hope to experience the World Cup without draining your bank account.
SportsCowboys pro bowler Kavontae Turpin set to host youth camp in McAllen this summer
Kavontae Turpin, a Pro Bowl receiver for the Dallas Cowboys, will host a youth camp in McAllen on July 17 at the McAllen Sports Park. The camp is designed for athletes aged 6 to 16, divided into three groups: 6-9, 10-13, and 14-16. Sessions will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., each lasting 90 minutes. A total of 200 spots are available for both boys and girls. The camp fee is $115 per participant, with registration open at rgvprimesports.com/register. Karla Puente, founder of RGV Prime Sports & Events, aims to provide local opportunities for youth sports training.
SportsIt's Neither NY nor LA: This City May Have Had the First Organized Soccer Club in the U.S.
Massachusetts is known for having many firsts: the first public school, the first public garden, even the first to invent basketball, and some also claim it was the first to play soccer in the United States, or at least an early version of the sport. Walking through Boston Common, near the carousel, one might notice a discreet monument. On one side, a list of the 16 original members of the Oneida Football Club. On the other, an inscription that reads: 'The first organized soccer club in the United States.' And between the years 1862 and 1865: 'The Oneida goal was never crossed.' Dr. Kevin Tallec Marston and Dr. Mike Cronin wrote the book 'Inventing the Boston Game.' Cronin says, 'They were wealthy and educated people, so they left a lot of documentation.' Around the time of the Civil War, a type of game involving kicking a round ball was played in Boston Common by the Oneida Club. This game is a precursor to what we now know as soccer, rugby, and American football. 'Different regions of the United States had different versions of these school games of kicking the ball. The same was true in the UK,' says Cronin. 'It is not until these games come together and are defined in the 1860s and 1870s, under more established rules, that they become what we know today as soccer,' the doctor adds. The game played by the Oneida evolved into a style with greater use of hands, and it was working-class communities and immigrants from the UK, in places like Fall River, who continued kicking the round ball. Marston recounts that at that time, 'there is a very active soccer culture, although invisible from the perspective of national media, that flourishes in immigrant and ethnic communities.' This evolution of the sport led the Oneida themselves to adjust their claim of having been the first. 'Basically, they present themselves as the first organizers of soccer played with kicks, because they know full well that modern soccer was formalized in 1863. They mention it in their memoirs and correspondence. So they say, 'Well, we were from 1862.' It’s very convenient for another 'first' from Massachusetts,' says Tallec Marston. It’s a story that few know, even among soccer fans. If there is one thing the authors would ask FIFA ahead of the 2026 World Cup, it is to somehow showcase the original ball used here in the Common during World Cup matches, as a tribute to the history of the sport in the United States.
SportsFederal Red Snapper Season Opens May 22
The federal red snapper season for private recreational anglers will begin on May 22, earlier than the usual June 1 start date. This adjustment aims to extend the fishing period for saltwater enthusiasts and coincide with the Memorial Day holiday. Robin Riechers, Director of the Coastal Fisheries Division at the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, emphasized the goal of maximizing fishing days in federal waters while maintaining year-round fishing in state waters. Regulations remain unchanged, allowing two red snapper per person per day in federal waters, with a minimum size limit of 16 inches. In state waters, the limit is four fish per person with a 15-inch minimum size.
SportsPSJA Lady Bears softball details preparation for state semifinal against Katy
The PSJA Lady Bears softball team is preparing for their UIL State semifinal series against the Katy Lady Tigers, starting Thursday in Corpus Christi. The best-of-three series may see Game 2 on Friday and a potential Game 3 on Saturday, depending on weather conditions. With a perfect 7-0 postseason record, the Lady Bears are confident heading into the match. Coach Alyssa Garza emphasizes the importance of keeping the Lady Tigers off balance, relying on ace pitcher Emma Escamilla and strong defense. Senior Amerie Vega highlights the team's focus and humility as they pursue their championship goal. Channel 5 will provide live coverage.
SportsMcAllen High Fletcher Frisby signs with Texas A & M-Kingsville
Fletcher Frisby, a standout athlete from McAllen High, has signed with Texas A&M University–Kingsville to advance his track and field career. This season, Frisby distinguished himself as a leading discus thrower in the Valley, winning both district and area championships. He also set a new McAllen High record with a throw of 176 feet and 10 inches, breaking a 60-year-old record. Frisby expressed his excitement about the support from friends and his choice of Texas A&M-Kingsville, citing its proximity to home and its welcoming community as key factors in his decision.
SportsHarlingen South James Esquivel signs to University of Southwest
James Anthony Esquivel, a pitcher from Harlingen South, officially signed his letter of intent to play baseball at the University of the Southwest in New Mexico on Tuesday. Esquivel received first team All-District recognition and participated in the BCA RGV All-Star Game. He played a key role in leading Harlingen South to a district championship and their first regional semifinal appearance in 14 years. Reflecting on his journey, Esquivel expressed gratitude for the support he received, stating that it feels incredible to have made history with his teammates, even as he prepares to move on to the next chapter of his career.
SportsThe World Cup is Ours: Superstars Announced for Telemundo Celebration
Telemundo has announced the first round of performances for "El Mundial Es Nuestro," a two-hour live musical event celebrating the FIFA World Cup 2026. The show will air live from the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles at 9 PM/8C, hosted by Jacky Bracamontes and Mauricio Ochmann. Featured artists include Carlos Vives, Emilia, Grupo Frontera, Natalia Jiménez, Wisin, and Xavi, who will perform the official anthem "Somos Más." This event is part of Telemundo's comprehensive programming for the World Cup, which will include live coverage of all 104 matches, marking a historic broadcast for the network in the U.S. and Puerto Rico.
SportsNeymar called up by Brazil for the 2026 World Cup despite doubts about his physical condition
Brazil has officially called up Neymar for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite concerns about his physical condition. The 34-year-old forward, who is Brazil's all-time leading scorer with 79 goals, has struggled since suffering a knee injury in October 2023. He has played only eight matches for Santos this year, scoring four goals. Coach Carlo Ancelotti expressed confidence in Neymar's recovery and highlighted his experience as valuable for the team. Brazil will begin preparations on May 27 and will play a friendly against Panama on May 31 before heading to the U.S. for the tournament, where they will face Morocco first on June 13.
SportsMcAllen High Ecklyn Vaden signs with Texas A & M-Kingsville track & field
Ecklyn Vaden, a standout athlete from McAllen High School, has officially signed her letter of intent to join the track and field team at Texas A&M-Kingsville. Vaden has an impressive record, being a four-time regional qualifier and three-time state qualifier. She also holds school records in the 4x100-meter and 4x200-meter relays. Expressing her excitement, Vaden noted that running track has been her dream since second grade, and she appreciates the proximity of the university to her home, allowing her family to attend her meets.
SportsCristiano Ronaldo Leads Portugal's Roster for What Will Be His Last World Cup
OEIRAS, Portugal – Cristiano Ronaldo heads the Portugal roster announced this Tuesday by coach Roberto Martínez for the 2026 World Cup, which will be the sixth and final of his career. Ronaldo, 41, is part of a list of 27 players that includes familiar faces like Vitinha and Bruno Fernandes, with the notable inclusion of Real Sociedad forward Gonçalo Guedes. In a press conference at the Cidade do Futebol complex in Oeiras, in the Lisbon metropolitan area, Martínez highlighted Guedes' 'flexibility,' noting that he can play on the wings, in the center, and create space in counterattacks. Ronaldo acknowledged last November, during a summit in Saudi Arabia, where he plays for Al Nassr, that at 41 years old, the World Cup taking place in cities across Mexico, the United States, and Canada will be his last.
SportsKing Felipe VI to Attend Spain vs. Uruguay Match in Mexico on June 26
King Felipe VI of Spain will travel to Guadalajara, Mexico, on June 26 to attend the World Cup match between Spain and Uruguay. The monarch confirmed his attendance after receiving invitations from Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum and FIFA President Gianni Infantino. This match is part of the group stage of the 2026 World Cup, where Spain will first face Cape Verde, followed by Saudi Arabia, and then Uruguay. Sheinbaum had previously sent invitations to all countries with which Mexico has diplomatic relations, coinciding with a period of improving diplomatic ties with Spain.
SportsPSJA softball advances to first ever state semifinal in program history
The PSJA Lady Bears softball team has made history by advancing to their first-ever state semifinal after defeating Dripping Springs 4-2. Star pitcher Emma Escamilla hit her 17th home run of the season, giving PSJA an early lead. The team extended their advantage to 3-0 with contributions from Amerie Vega and Ivanna Salas before Dripping Springs scored. Adamaris Garza added another run in the sixth inning. Escamilla secured the win in the final frame, with Salas catching the last out. PSJA will now face Katy in the state semifinal, with the schedule yet to be announced.
SportsPSJA Bears softball team wins first-ever regional championship title
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The PSJA Bears softball team made history on Friday night with its first-ever regional championship title win against Dripping Springs. Both teams faced off in game two of the 6A DII Region IV Championship at Calallen High School in Corpus Christi. The PSJA Bears achieved their victory over Dripping Springs with
SportsThe Premier League Lights Up Telemundo This Sunday
The Premier League returns to light up Telemundo this Sunday with two important matches from English football. The day kicks off with the match between Leeds United and Brighton.
SportsChivas Hosts Cruz Azul for the Liga MX Semifinal, Watch it on Telemundo
Telemundo brings fans to Guadalajara, Mexico this Saturday, May 16, with comprehensive on-site coverage of one of the most anticipated matchups of the Liga MX Clausura, as Chivas faces Cruz Azul in the second leg of the semifinal. The match will be broadcast on Telemundo, Universo, and Peacock. Coverage begins at 8 p.m. ET with Fútbol Estelar Liga MX: La Previa, live from Guadalajara, where Verónica Rodríguez, Adriana Monsalve, Miguel Gurwitz, José Luis López Salido, and Jorge Calvo will set the stage with the latest headlines, key stories, expert analysis, and live reports ahead of the decisive clash.
SportsShakira and Burna Boy Get the World Dancing with 'Dai, Dai', the Official Song of the 2026 World Cup
Colombian superstar Shakira and Nigerian afrobeats icon Burna Boy have teamed up for "Dai Dai," the official song of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The track blends afrobeats and Latin rhythms, celebrating competing nations like Brazil, Argentina, and Mexico. It pays tribute to football legends including Pelé and Messi. The multilingual chorus, featuring phrases like "Dai dai" and "let's go!", embodies the global spirit of the tournament. Shakira, known for her previous World Cup anthems, recently teased the song with a clip from the Maracanã Stadium. The World Cup will take place in June and July across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
SportsThe Big Moment Approaches: FIFA Takes Control of Estadio Azteca After Renovation
MEXICO – Estadio Azteca was formally handed over to FIFA on Thursday in anticipation of June 11, when it will host the first match of the 2026 World Cup between Mexico and South Africa, marking its third World Cup opening, a historic record. 'After 18 months of renovations, the formal handover of Estadio Azteca to FIFA took place successfully. This iconic venue will make history as the only one in the world to host three FIFA World Cups,' the venue's management stated in a press release. Estadio Azteca was the site of the 1970 World Cup, where Brazil, led by Pelé, became champions, and the 1986 World Cup, where Diego Armando Maradona guided Argentina to lift the title. 'For the stadium and everyone working at Controladora Deportiva Águilas, it is a great source of pride to be part of this historic moment for Mexico and world football. We wish FIFA the best of luck in this event that has been years in the making,' the statement added.
SportsLuis Díaz and James Rodríguez Lead Colombia's Preliminary Roster for the World Cup
BOGOTA – Winger Luis Díaz of Bayern Munich and playmaker James Rodríguez of Minnesota United head the preliminary list of 55 players for Colombia's 2026 World Cup roster, from which 26 players will be selected to represent the country in the tournament in a few weeks. Colombia's head coach, Néstor Lorenzo, announced the preliminary list during a press conference on Thursday, which includes regular starters such as goalkeeper Camilo Vargas; defenders Daniel Muñoz, Davinson Sánchez, Jhon Lucumí, and Johan Mojica; midfielders Jhon Arias and Jefferson Lerma; and striker Luis Suárez. Notable additions include 21-year-old playmaker Juan Manuel Rengifo, a standout for Atlético Nacional; forward Néiser Villarreal of Cruzeiro, who was the top scorer at last year's U-20 World Cup; and midfielder Johan Rojas, who has delivered outstanding performances with Vasco Da Gama.