This year, the Italian athlete broke the long-standing Italian 800-metre record (1’43”7, set in 1973) and ran the distance in 1’42”67. “Now I’m recharging my batteries for the indoor season; I’ve missed it for the past two years due to physical problems: I want to improve my personal best, set the Italian record and head to the European Championships in Valencia with high hopes. That will be the first step.” Interview

The “Calciatori Panini” collection is back, now in its 66th edition and available at newsagents from 20 October. The main new features are the “Time Capsule” and “New Wave” sections, which bring together current stars with those of the past and emerging talents 

The four defeats in four matches suffered by Italian sides in the Champions League are a reflection of mediocre football that, at best, is content to win the prize for the best ‘head-held-high’ performance of the season

US football is growing partly thanks to the Latin American communities, their presence in the stadiums and the fan culture they have helped to build. For the clubs, this means identity and revenue. For the supporters, a sense of belonging goes beyond just the ticket

The Italian judoka has secured her place on the world championship podium for the fifth time in a row (in the 48 kg category). Following her operation in April, “I was away from the tatami and the spotlight; I began to remember why I do this sport and how much I love it, and I got my thoughts in order.”

Roma, Inter and Napoli are at the bottom of the table, whilst Como remain in the play-off zone. The four defeats are setting alarm bells ringing, but there are still six matches left to turn things round

The manager of the Spanish side, Juventus’s opponents in Europe, has fielded 55 different line-ups in his last 55 matches. He relies on young players and on the identity of a club that he has managed to lift from the lower reaches of La Liga to European competition.

Following their victory over Lillestrøm, the small Portuguese side – which still plays in the Portuguese second division – are set to take on Sunderland again