Early medal leaders emerge at 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy; New Zealand defeats Afghanistan in T20 World Cup opener
The 2026 Winter Olympic Games in northern Italy continued over the weekend, with Italy, Japan and Norway leading the early medal table, each securing three medals including one gold, one silver and one bronze. Sweden follows with two medals, while Switzerland, Slovenia, Canada and China have one medal each. Italy claimed the host nation's first gold, sparking celebrations among supporters.
Traditional powerhouses asserted dominance in speed skating, alpine skiing and cross-country skiing. Team events in curling and ice hockey entered early round-robin stages. Monday's schedule includes medal events in alpine skiing, speed skating, luge, cross-country skiing and figure skating, alongside further group play.
Ariana Television holds exclusive broadcast rights for the Olympics in Afghanistan, providing live coverage nationwide. Fans can follow Ariana News and Ariana Television social media for schedules, highlights and results from Milan and Cortina.
In other sports, the AFC Champions League Elite 2025/26 features Monday matches: Al-Wahda vs Al Ahli, Nasaf Qarshi vs Al-Shorta, Al Duhail vs Sharjah, and Shabab Al-Ahli vs Al Hilal. These will air live on Ariana Television.
In cricket, New Zealand defeated Afghanistan by five wickets in their T20 World Cup opener in Chennai, India, on Sunday. Afghanistan posted 182 for 6 in 20 overs, powered by Gulbadin Naib's strong knock, but New Zealand chased the target with 13 balls remaining.
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