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The two thousand twenty six World Cup quarterfinals are heating up, and Norway is dealing with more than just England on their mind. After knocking out Brazil, the Norwegians were forced to switch hotels due to excessive noise, and now coach Stale Solbakken confirms several players are battling illness heading into what should be a massive quarterfinal matchup. Not ideal preparation.
Speaking of the World Cup, France and Morocco meet Thursday in a quarterfinal with serious weight behind it. Morocco made this same stage in two thousand twenty two and shocked the planet. France arrive as one of the tournament's heaviest favorites. SportsLine's experts are weighing in with their best bets, and this one has the feel of a match that could go deep into extra time before someone blinks.
On the political front, eleven Republican lawmakers have formally written to the WNBA calling on the league to protect Caitlin Clark from what they're describing as racially motivated physical play on the court. Clark has absorbed some brutal fouls since entering the league in two thousand twenty four. Whether the league responds with concrete action or carefully worded statements, the pressure is now officially on the record.
That's your play-by-play. Sports Desk, back to the booth.
