Sport

Sport
A new era for Cleveland: Haslam Sports Group buys land for $76 million for an ambitious Browns stadium
CLEVELAND, Ohio — On Friday, June 27, 2025, Haslam Sports Group (HSG) took a decisive step toward creating a new home for the Cleveland Browns by purchasing 176 acres of land in Brook Park for $76 million, near Cleveland Hopkins International Airport. This deal, executed through the subsidiary Primacy Development LLC, marks the beginning of a transformative $3.6 billion project that includes a $2.4 billion domed stadium and a multi-purpose complex with hotels, apartments, restaurants, and offices. While the city of Cleveland struggles to keep the Browns on Lake Erie’s waterfront, the Haslams’ ambition promises to reshape the economic landscape of Northeast Ohio — or become the most expensive risk for the region.
This purchase, documented in Cuyahoga County records, was made possible after Ohio legislators approved a $600 million allocation from unclaimed state funds for the project, which is part of a two-year budget awaiting Governor Mike DeWine's signature by July 1. Along with $1.2 billion in private investment from HSG and partners such as Texas-based Lincoln Property Company, and an additional $600 million from Brook Park and Cuyahoga County, the project is positioned as a “generational opportunity,” in the words of Browns co-owner Jimmy Haslam. However, opposition from Cleveland Mayor Justin Bibb and County Executive Chris Ronayne, who describe the plan as “risky” and “fiscally irresponsible,” casts a shadow over its future.
From industrial wasteland to sports mecca
The site on Snow Road, 18300, was once part of two Ford Motor Co. plants, which in 2021 were purchased by developers Weston Inc., Scannell Properties, and DiGeronimo Cos. for $31.5 million. After demolishing the old structures and converting part of the land into warehouse space, the remaining 176 acres became an ideal canvas for the Haslams’ vision. Located 1,000 feet from the airport, adjacent to Interstates 71 and 480 and Norfolk Southern rail lines, this land offers unique accessibility, making it attractive for creating a sports and entertainment hub capable of hosting major events from NCAA finals to world-class concerts.
HSG’s plan includes a stadium, sunk 80 feet below grade due to its proximity to the airport, which would be the first of its kind in the NFL. Next to it will be a 300,000-square-foot retail and entertainment complex, two luxury hotels, 1,100 apartments, and 500,000 square feet of office space with capacity for 14,000 parking spaces. According to consulting firm RCLCO, the project will generate an annual economic impact of $1.3 billion and create 5,400 permanent and 6,000 construction jobs. Brook Park Mayor Edward Orcutt called it “a transformative investment” that will make the region a magnet for tourism and development. “This is not just a stadium,” he said. “We are building a community where people will live, work, and play all year round.”
The battle for the Browns: Cleveland vs. the suburbs
Haslam’s decision to leave Huntington Bank Field, built in 1999 on Cleveland’s waterfront, has sparked a storm of emotion and political maneuvering. Mayor Bibb, who advocates for keeping the Browns downtown, called the move “deeply disappointing” and estimated the economic loss for local businesses at $30 million annually. In August 2024, he proposed $461 million for renovating the current stadium, but HSG dismissed this idea as a “short-term solution” that wouldn’t generate the same economic effect as the Brook Park domed complex. Bibb also references the 1996 Modell law, which requires teams using taxpayer-supported facilities to secure city approval or allow local investors to buy the team before relocating. HSG has challenged this law in federal court, calling it unconstitutional, while Ohio Attorney General Dave Yost backed Cleveland’s stance.
The opposition is further fueled by criticism of the funding plan. The Haslams are requesting $1.2 billion in public funds, including $422 million from new taxes in Brook Park (on admission, revenue, and parking), $178 million from Cuyahoga County hotel and rental car taxes, and $600 million from the state via bonds repaid by project taxes. Chris Ronayne labeled these projections “overly optimistic,” pointing out risks to the county’s credit rating. The Akron Beacon Journal editorial strongly criticized the plan, calling it “a billionaire’s bailout at taxpayers’ expense,” while schools remain underfunded. Additional tension stems from the Haslams’ political ties: according to Ohio Capital Journal, they donated $60,999 to House Speaker Matt Huffman, who actively supports the project.
Challenges and opportunities
Despite the land deal, the path to executing the project remains thorny. The Haslams must complete financing and secure approval from local residents by the end of 2025, which may include voting on tax initiatives. The history of failed sports projects in Ohio, such as Canton’s Pro Football Hall of Fame Village, highlights risks of cost overruns and unmet expectations. Furthermore, lawsuits with the city of Cleveland and skepticism from Ronayne, who emphasizes prioritizing projects like a new county jail, complicate negotiations. Governor DeWine, who must sign the budget by July 1, faces a dilemma: support the project risking criticism for prioritizing sports venues over social needs, or veto the funding, potentially forcing the Haslams to revisit the stadium renovation in Cleveland.
For Browns fans, whose passion is at the heart of Cleveland’s culture, the move to Brook Park evokes mixed feelings. Some see the new stadium as an opportunity for the region to become a sports and entertainment hub rivaling Midwestern cities. Others, as expressed during public hearings, fear the loss of traditions like the iconic tailgating along the waterfront. “If we rebuild the stadium in the same spot, we’ll miss out on a chance for something new,” remarked one Cleveland City Council attendee. However, the average cost of a family of four attending a game—$800 in 2024—raises questions about whether ordinary taxpayers can afford to frequent games at the new complex.
Looking ahead
While the Browns prepare for the 2025 season at the old stadium, the Haslams are already eyeing 2029, when the new Huntington Bank Field could open its doors. Designed by HKS architecture firm, the project promises a “world-class” experience for fans and an economic boost for the region. But can the Haslams overcome legal, financial, and public hurdles? Will Brook Park become Ohio’s new football capital, or will it remain just a billionaire’s grand vision? In a city still haunted by the pain of the Browns’ 1996 move to Baltimore, this battle for the team’s future is not just economic but deeply emotional. As Cleveland stands at a crossroads, one thing is clear: decisions made in the coming months will shape the Browns’ legacy for generations to come.
28.06.2025

Sport
Thunder of Victory: Oklahoma City Thunder Win NBA Title in Tense Finals Against Pacers
On Sunday evening, the Oklahoma City Thunder made history by defeating the Indiana Pacers with a score of 103-91 in Game 7 of the NBA Finals to claim their first franchise championship title since relocating from Seattle in 2008. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, crowned league MVP, was the architect of this victory, scoring 29 points and 12 assists, confirming that his star season culminated in triumph. This victory, earned through an intense series that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the last second, was not only a triumph for the Thunder but also a symbol of a new era in the NBA, where young teams with deep rosters challenge the established hierarchy.
This title was the second for the franchise, which previously won the championship as the Seattle SuperSonics in 1979. However, for Oklahoma City, a city that had been dreaming of its own banner for years, it was a moment of catharsis. With 84 wins in the regular season and playoffs, the Thunder matched the legendary Chicago Bulls of 1996-97 for most wins in a season, trailing only Golden State 2016-17 (88) and the Bulls 2015-16 (87). "It's not just a win, it's a statement," said head coach Mark Daigneault, whose strategic brilliance was key to their success. "We showed that defense still wins championships."
The series against the Pacers was a real test. Indiana, which started the season with a 10-15 record, made an impressive comeback to reach the finals for the first time since 2000. They led 1-0 and 2-1, relying on fast-paced attacks and deep roster depth, but the loss of star defender Tyrus Haliburton due to an Achilles injury in the first quarter of Game 7 dealt a fatal blow. "We fought to the end," said Pacers forward Pascal Siakam, who scored 16 points and grabbed 13 rebounds. "But without Tyrus, we lacked the spark." Benedict Mathurin, with 24 points and 13 rebounds, tried to fill the gap, but the Thunder used their devastating defense, forcing the opponents into 23 turnovers, which turned into 32 points.
The third quarter was decisive: the Thunder outscored the Pacers 34-20, creating a 13-point lead thanks to accurate three-pointers from Lou Dort and relentless energy from Jalen Williams, who added 20 points. Chet Holmgren, another young star, finished the game with 18 points, demonstrating why the Thunder are considered the youngest champion team since the Portland Trail Blazers in 1977. "We knew this was our moment," said Gilgeous-Alexander, who was named Finals MVP. "All our work, all our sacrifices led us here."
For the Pacers, this loss was a painful reminder of missed opportunities. The team, often underestimated by many, proved their strength, pushing the series to a seventh game—the first in NBA Finals since 2016. Pacers legend Reggie Miller, present at the game, acknowledged: "This team has heart. They were so close." However, injuries, including Achilles tears for Haliburton, James Weisman, and Isaiah Jackson, proved to be an overwhelming burden. According to sources within the Pacers coaching staff, Haliburton, who signed a five-year $244.7 million contract, may miss a significant part of next season, casting doubt on the team’s future prospects.
This victory for the Thunder also highlighted a paradigm shift in the NBA. Over the past seven seasons, seven different teams have won the title—a unprecedented occurrence in league history. Under Commissioner Adam Silver, who has seen nine different champions in 12 years, the NBA has become a arena where young, balanced rosters like the Thunder challenge traditional superteams. "This is the new NBA," Silver said in his postgame comment. "Depth, defense, and youth are rewriting the rules."
For Oklahoma City, a city that has endured economic hardship and tragedies, this title became a moment of unity. Fans filling the Paycom Center cheered for Gilgeous-Alexander and Dort—two Canadians who became the 11th and 12th players from Canada to win an NBA title. "This is for our city," said Sam Presti, Thunder general manager, holding the Larry O’Brien trophy. "We built this team with faith in youth and discipline."
As Oklahoma City prepares for the championship parade and the banner of the Thunder is set to rise to the arena's roof, the Pacers return to Indiana with heads held high, but with a bitter taste of lost dreams. For both teams, this series was a testament to their resilience. But that night, the thunder roared louder, and Oklahoma City celebrates the dawn of a new dynasty.
23.06.2025

Sport
Republican from Ohio proposes banning midday football games: The battle over traditions and television ratings
COLUMBUS, Ohio — In a state where football is not just a sport but a religion, Republican representative Teks Fisher has challenged one of Ohio's most controversial traditions: midday games of the Ohio State Buckeyes. His new bill, introduced last week, requires that games involving the Buckeyes against top-10 Associated Press teams begin no earlier than 3:30 PM. The proposal, which includes penalties of up to $10 million for violators, has sparked debates about football culture, television ratings, and political populism at the heart of America.
Football passion versus television schedules
Fisher, a passionate supporter of the Buckeyes from the Cincinnati suburb, does not hide his frustration. "Midday games against teams like Texas are an offense to fans," he posted on X, the platform that has become the arena for his campaign. The bill seems to have arisen from outrage over the upcoming rematch against the Texas Longhorns on August 30, which, according to rumors, Fox plans to broadcast as part of its popular Big Noon Kickoff slot. "Promises were made, promises will be kept," Fisher added, emphasizing his determination to change the status quo.
For Ohio, where the Buckeyes are a symbol of pride, midday games have long caused dissatisfaction. Fans complain that an early start ruins the atmosphere of evening games, when 100,000 spectators at Ohio Stadium create an electric energy hard to reproduce at noon. "It's not just a game; it's a ritual," says Jake Thompson, a bar owner near campus where fans traditionally gather late into the night. "Midday games kill the spirit of Columbus."
Politics, football, and big money
Fisher's bill is not only a defense of fan culture but also a challenge to television giants that dictate game schedules. Fox, whose Big Noon Kickoff program featuring Buckeyes alum Urban Meyer has become a hit, prefers midday slots to capture audiences before evening broadcasts. In the 2024 season, the Buckeyes played five such games, provoking a wave of outrage among fans but earning Fox millions in advertising revenue. According to insider sources, the network pays the Big Ten conference around $50 million a year for rights to these slots, and any changes could lead to tense negotiations.
Fisher proposes strict sanctions: a $10 million fine for a sports conference or TV network that schedules a midday start, with the guilty party determined by the Ohio attorney general. An exception is made for the legendary game against Michigan, traditionally played at noon to preserve its historic significance. "It's a compromise," a source close to Fisher said. "He knows he can't touch everything, but he wants to hit Fox where it hurts."
Reactions and broader context
Fisher's proposal has elicited mixed reactions. Supporters, especially Buckeyes fans, welcome it as a defense of their culture. "Teks is saying what we all think," wrote one fan on X, where Fisher's post has garnered thousands of shares. But critics, including Democratic Senator Bill DeMora, call the bill a populist stunt. "We have problems with education, healthcare, and he's wasting time on football," DeMora said. His own bill, banning exclusive streaming services like Peacock, also aims to protect fans.
The Ohio State University, which earns tens of millions from football broadcasts, finds itself in a delicate position. According to an administrative source, university leadership fears that supporting Fisher could jeopardize contracts with the Big Ten and Fox, but ignoring fans risks sparking a uprising in Columbus. "It's a political minefield," a source said. "Fans want evening games, but the money comes from TV networks."
Football as a mirror of America
Fisher's bill is more than a dispute over game times. It reflects deeper tensions within American society: the struggle between tradition and commerce, between local identity and corporate power. In Ohio, where the Buckeyes symbolize resilience in a post-industrial region, football is not just entertainment but a means to unite the community. Many believe midday games steal this magic, prioritizing TV ratings over the fan experience.
But Fisher's proposal also raises questions about its viability. Can the state afford to allocate legislative resources to such initiatives when schools are underfunded and healthcare is in crisis? And will Fisher be able to stand up to television giants whose financial might often outweigh political will? According to insiders, Big Ten lawyers are already preparing arguments against the bill, claiming it violates federal trade laws.
Looking ahead
As Columbus prepares for the game against the Longhorns, Buckeyes fans dream of an evening under stadium lights rather than a sizzling noon. Fisher, whose bill still needs to pass through committees, has become a hero for some and a laughingstock for others. But his initiative has already shifted the conversation, forcing TV networks and universities to consider who owns the soul of American football.
"It's not just about game time," Thompson, pouring beer for fans in his bar, said. "It's about whether we, the fans, still have a voice." In a state where every fall belongs to the Buckeyes, the answer to that question could shape not only the game schedule but also Ohio's vision of its future—as a land of tradition or a marketplace for goods.
23.05.2025

Sport
NASCAR returns the season final in Homestead, initiating a new era of the rotational championship
Homestead, Florida — At a moment that simultaneously symbolizes a return to traditions and a new strategic course, NASCAR announced on Tuesday: the championship weekend in 2026 will take place at the iconic Homestead-Miami Speedway. This means that for the first time in seven years, champions of the three main NASCAR series — Truck Series, Xfinity Series, and the top-tier Cup Series — will be crowned here.
However, as recent statements from leadership indicate, this is not just about a return. It is the beginning of a rotational formula that, according to NASCAR, aims to "redistribute the dramatic season finale between key markets and historic motorsport venues."
“It’s not just about geography — this is a new level of challenge for drivers and new emotions for fans,” — said Ben Kennedy, NASCAR Executive Vice President, adding that the format will create “a dynamic, unpredictable finish each year.”
The choice of Homestead is not accidental but a strategic acknowledgment of this arena’s role in NASCAR history. From 2002 to 2019, this track was the backdrop for decisive moments of the season. It became a championship forge for legends: Kyle Busch won titles here twice, Brett Kesselowski — in 2012, Joey Logano — in 2018. And, of course, Jimmie Johnson, seven-time champion, engraved his name in Homestead’s asphalt, where each of his titles ended with a triumphant finish in South Florida. It was here that the tunnel was named after him — a unique honor even by NASCAR standards.
Since 2020, the season finale has been held in Phoenix — a transfer initially perceived as an experiment but cemented for several years. However, there were already talks in the sidelines about returning to the “floating finale” model, which allows organizers to adapt the format to the demands of the modern market and media landscape.
“The modern fan is mobile, multi-platform, diverse. They expect the unexpected. We’re not just selling tickets to the track — we’re delivering emotions into every home,” — says one NBC Sports analyst who asked not to be named while commenting on the format change.
2026 will mark a new era: tradition returns to a familiar track, but in a new format — as part of a rotational strategy. After that, championship weekends will probably shift between historic locations — Chicago, Atlanta, Charlotte, and possibly even new city circuits currently in planning stages.
Homestead has once again gained the chance to become the place where tears of joy mix with the track’s dust, where history is rewritten with every steering wheel turn, and where tens of thousands of fans will witness the birth of a new champion — or a legend.
14.05.2025

Sport
A golf club Ridgewood will be opened in Parma: a large-scale project worth $12.3 million will operate as early as autumn
This fall, the renovated Ridgewood Golf Club Event Center / Clubhouse and community center are scheduled to open in Parma, Ohio. The $12.3 million capital reconstruction of the complex has become one of the largest recreational investments in the city in recent years.
The project is aimed not only at experienced golf players but also at the broad community — the space is intended to be accessible and attractive to everyone. Renovation and construction are proceeding on schedule, with opening planned for October 2025. The golf course continues to operate during the works.
The new facility, covering over 15,000 square feet, includes a lobby, event halls, a lounge area with grill partitions, a modern golf simulator room with six simulators, management offices, a bar, player shops, and additional services. An additional 5,000 square feet will be designated for an open interior courtyard.
Photo: Mike Holden
The project envisions space for weddings, celebrations, children's events, training sessions, and business meetings. The hall can be transformed for groups of up to 200 people and features a contemporary design with panoramic 14-foot windows offering views of the golf course. To emphasize aesthetics and completeness, landscape architects have even “flipped” the front and back nines of the course so that players’ final shots are visible to guests.
“This is revolutionary for our community. We want this space to become a place where both golf players and those simply looking to spend time with family or friends come together,” said Tony Vannello, director of the city’s Department of Service.
The upgraded infrastructure also includes practical amenities: a new area for golf carts, changing rooms, improved parking with ramps for people with disabilities, and safe pedestrian pathways. The building is designed with various scenarios of limited access in mind (for example, during pandemics) — each part of the complex has dedicated entrances and logistics.
The previous club building was demolished in 2022 due to its emergency condition — it was nearly 100 years old. Higley Construction is carrying out the reconstruction in partnership with the architectural studio American Structurepoint.
To support the renovated complex, the city has already planned the creation of new seasonal jobs and the introduction of a full-time event coordinator position.
An interesting note is that Parma’s city council plans to increase the course fee; however, city officials emphasize that this is not related to the reconstruction costs but simply reflects the overall rising expenses for personnel and maintenance. The game fee will increase by $1: nine holes for city residents will cost $16, and for non-residents — $17.
“This space is not just about sports. It’s about community, hospitality, and comfort. We want every resident to feel that it’s a place created for them,” Vannello concluded.
29.04.2025

Sport
60 Thousand Fans in Cleveland: Inter Miami Again Makes MLS History
On Saturday, «Inter Miami» defeated the reigning MLS Cup champion «Columbus Crew» with a minimal score of 1:0 at the packed «Huntington Bank Field» stadium in Cleveland. The author of the only goal was 20-year-old Benjamin Cremaski, who scored with a header in the 30th minute of the game.
The match set a new attendance record for «Crew» home games — 60,614 spectators, which also became the largest non-NFL event in the stadium's history, a traditional arena for «Cleveland Browns». The relocation of the game from Columbus to Cleveland was driven by overwhelming demand for tickets, fueled by the participation of global football star Lionel Messi.
This is already the second time this season that a match involving «Inter Miami» has attracted over 60 thousand fans on the road, and the ninth instance since Messi joined the club in 2023 when a «pink-black» team’s game garners such spectator attention.
The key moment of the match occurred at the 30th minute, when Marcelo Viagandt delivered a precise pass from the right flank into the penalty area, where Cremaski, outrunning «Crew» defender Malte Amundsen, directed the ball into the net past goalkeeper Patrick Schulte. This was the young American midfielder’s first goal of the season and the first «Inter Miami» goal not scored by Messi in the last 277 minutes of play.
Despite active involvement, Messi was unable to add to his goal tally — his best opportunity came at the end of the first half, when the Argentine slightly missed, shooting past the left post.
In the second half, the hosts intensified their efforts, but the reliable play of «Inter Miami» goalkeeper Oscar Ustari, who made three saves, helped keep a clean sheet and secure an important away victory.
After this win, «Inter Miami» remains among the leaders of the Eastern Conference with a record of 5 wins, 0 losses, and 3 draws, while «Columbus Crew» suffered their first loss of the season — 5 wins, 1 loss, 3 draws.
The next meeting of the teams is expected with no less interest, as tension in the East is mounting, and Messi’s participation in MLS matches attracts huge attention — not only on the pitch but also in the stands.
20.04.2025

Sport
Cleveland Cavaliers and Miami Heat will face off in the first round of the 2025 NBA playoffs
In the first round of the 2024/2025 NBA playoffs, the «Cleveland Cavaliers» will host the «Miami Heat» — a historic matchup that promises to be tense and emotional. The first game of the series kicks off this Sunday, April 20th, at 7:00 PM at the «Cavs» home court — Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.
After a dramatic play-in game on Friday evening, in which the «Miami Heat» defeated the «Atlanta Hawks» with a score of 123-114 in overtime, it was announced that the team from Florida will be the Cavaliers’ opponent. It is worth noting that the «Heat» became the first team in the history of the new Play-In format to, as a tenth seed, break into the main playoff bracket.
«Historically, it’s a great team. They are very strong on offense. But we are excited, we are ready for the challenge,» — commented Miami leader Tyler Herro after the game against the Hawks, gearing up for a serious confrontation with Cleveland.
During the regular season, the teams met three times: twice Cleveland celebrated victory, and only once—in December—the «Heat» managed to beat their opponent with a score of 122-113. In the January game in Miami, Cleveland took revenge convincingly, 126-106, and again secured a home victory in March — 112-107.
The «Cavs» coaching staff and players gained a clear understanding of their opponent only on Friday evening. Isaac Okoro noted after practice: «We’re focused. Watching videos, preparing for Sunday. Now that we know who we’re playing — we can work on the game plan.»
On Saturday, the team will undergo a detailed analysis of the opponent’s game, strategic training, and work on the starting lineup.
«Cavs» have the advantage of playing at home and boast a strong roster, but the experience of «Miami» in critical matches and the charisma of their leaders could pose a serious challenge for the young and ambitious team from Cleveland.
Will «Cleveland» be able to take advantage of the home starting series? The first answer will be given this Sunday at 7:00 PM.
19.04.2025

Sport
Barça, Inter, PSG, and Arsenal: a new era in the Champions League
The quarter-final stage of the UEFA Champions League 2024/2025 provided fans with incredible emotions, unexpected twists, and a loud farewell to the main favorite of the tournament — Madrid's Real. In the battle for the semi-finals, eight of the strongest teams in Europe faced off, but only four advanced further: Barcelona, PSG, Arsenal, and Inter.
Goodbye, Real: Arsenal makes history
The London Arsenal became the author of the most sensational event of this stage, defeating Real twice. After a crushing 3:0 defeat in the first match at the Emirates, Mikel Arteta's team proved their advantage at Santiago Bernabéu — 2:1. Although Bukayo Saka missed a penalty at the start of the game, he eventually opened the scoring. Vinícius quickly responded, but in added time Martinelli scored the final goal — 5:1 on aggregate.
Oleksandr Zinchenko, although not entering the field, celebrates with the team as they reach the semi-final — only the third in the club’s history. Previous attempts in 2006 and 2009 ended in failure.
PSG: the fight for their first-ever trophy continues
The Parisians are once again close to a historic breakthrough. After a 3:1 home victory over Aston Villa, the return match in Birmingham turned into a real thriller. Despite an early lead for the guests at 2:0 (thanks to Hakimi and Mendes), the hosts equalized — Tillemanns, McGinn, and Consa brought the Villans victory of 3:2. However, the total score of 5:4 in favor of PSG kept the English team out of the competition.
PSG has advanced to the semi-finals only four times in history. The previous final in 2020 ended in a defeat by Bayern. Now, the Parisian grand is facing Arsenal.
Inter maintains advantage over Bayern
The Munich team, as always, had ambitions for the title but had to finish their run at the quarter-final stage. After a minimal 1:2 home defeat, Bayern could not turn the tide at San Siro. Kane put the visitors ahead, but Lautaro Martínez and Pavar’s own goal made the score 2:1 in favor of Inter. D’Ayer’s goal only equalized the score — 2:2, but the situation remained: 4:3 on aggregate — and the Italians advance to the semi-final.
This will be the tenth semi-final in the club’s Champions League history for Inter. The last time the Nerazzurri reached this stage was in the 2022/2023 season when they advanced all the way to the final.
Barcelona withstood pressure in Dortmund
Despite a home victory of 4:0 in the first match, Barcelona almost lost control in Dortmund. Girussi scored a hat-trick, and an own goal by Bensebaini helped the Catalans maintain a comfortable advantage. The match ended with a victory for Dortmund 3:1, but the total score of 5:3 left the Germans out of the competition.
The semi-final will be the 18th in the history of the Catalan club. The last time Barcelona played in the Champions League semi-final was in 2019.
Who faces whom in the semi-finals?
🔸 Arsenal – PSG🔸 Inter – Barcelona
The matches will take place on April 29 and 30 (first games) and May 6–7 (return matches).
18.04.2025

Sport
Football celebration in Cleveland: Columbus Crew will play against Inter Miami at Huntington Bank Field
On Friday, April 19, 2025, Cleveland will host one of the most anticipated soccer events of the year — at Huntington Bank Field, the MLS Cup 2023 champions «Columbus Crew» and the Supporters’ Shield 2024 winners «Inter Miami» will face off. The game begins at 4:30 PM Eastern Time.
This is not just another regular-season match — it’s a historic confrontation between two powerful teams in a new MLS location. The match will be the first league championship game in northeastern Ohio, highlighting the expansion of football’s popularity in the region.
Tickets and Priority for Fans
Ticket sales started on Tuesday, January 14, at 10:00 AM, but the most dedicated supporters had the opportunity to access early tickets a day earlier — on January 13, from 3:00 PM on the website columbuscrew.com/coming-to-cleveland.
Owners of «Crew» season tickets will receive seating equivalent to or better than their usual seats, along with exclusive bonuses:
free parking pass,
food and drink voucher,
ticket to the post-match party right on the field.
The Voice of the Club and Community
«Crew» President of Business Operations Josh Glessing emphasized that this match is an important step in the club’s development across the entire state:
«We want to provide more opportunities for our fans. Huntington Bank Field is a chance not only to watch the game live but also to attract a new fan base in northeastern Ohio».
The team will also implement a social project as part of its mission to support youth soccer in the region. Further details will be announced later.
A Stadium with a Rich History
Huntington Bank Field is the home stadium of Cleveland Browns, hosting dozens of major events since 1999:
CONCACAF Gold Cup,
matches of the US men's and women's national teams,
WWE SummerSlam 2024,
concerts by Rolling Stones, , Rod Stewart,
and soon — AC/DC (May 28, 2025).
What to Expect?
The showdown between «Columbus Crew» and «Inter Miami» promises to be a real spectacle: high-level gameplay, a fiery atmosphere at the 67,000-seat stadium, and incredible energy from the fans. The full MLS 2025 season schedule will be announced soon.
Tickets for other «Crew» matches in Columbus will be available later on the website columbuscrew.com/tickets.
Don't miss the opportunity to be part of Ohio’s soccer history — this match will be not only a sporting event but a true celebration for the entire community!
If needed, I can also adapt this for social media posting or create a shorter news version.
16.04.2025