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Nkunku Scores Debut Goal as France Dominates Israel 4-1 in Nations League Clash

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Christopher Nkunku marked his return to the French national team with his maiden international goal, helping France secure a commanding 4-1 victory over Israel in their UEFA Nations League encounter on Thursday. The win narrows the gap between Les Bleus and Group A2 leaders Italy to just one point.

Playing in Hungary due to security concerns in Israel, France demonstrated their depth and resilience in the absence of captain Kylian Mbappe. Eduardo Camavinga opened the scoring for France in the 7th minute, capitalizing on a handling error by Israeli goalkeeper Omri Glazer.

Israel briefly leveled the match in the 24th minute through Omri Gandelman, who headed home from Oscar Gloukh’s long pass. However, France’s lead was quickly restored four minutes later when Nkunku, making his first appearance for the national team in nearly 10 months, skillfully evaded two defenders before slotting home a low shot.

The Chelsea forward’s goal was a highlight of a strong French performance that saw Matteo Guendouzi and Bradley Barcola add late strikes to seal the comprehensive victory. Guendouzi found the net with a low shot from outside the box, while Barcola contributed a curling effort in the penultimate minute.

France coach Didier Deschamps acknowledged the team’s transitional phase but expressed satisfaction with the result. “It’s always good to win. The atmosphere around the squad is not exactly pleasant,” Deschamps remarked, alluding to recent criticism of Mbappe’s absence. “It’s not perfect, we’re in a transition period but there are some good things, with players who have qualities and now need to confirm.”

The match also marked France’s first outing since Antoine Griezmann’s retirement from international football. Michael Olise, starting in Griezmann’s absence, showed promise but also revealed his inexperience at the international level.

With this victory, France moves to six points from three games in their Nations League campaign, trailing Italy by a single point. The result sets up an intriguing clash with Belgium in Brussels on Monday, as Les Bleus continue their pursuit of the group leaders.

The match, played in Hungary due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza, underscored France’s depth and adaptability, as they convincingly overcame both the absence of key players and the challenges of a neutral venue.

Italy Held to 2-2 Draw by Resilient Belgium in UEFA Nations League Thriller

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In a pulsating UEFA Nations League encounter at the Stadio Olimpico, Italy surrendered a two-goal advantage as Belgium fought back to secure a 2-2 draw on Thursday evening. The result leaves Italy atop League A Group 2, while Belgium salvaged a crucial point in their campaign.

Italy started the match in blistering fashion, taking the lead after just two minutes. Federico Dimarco’s dangerous cross caused chaos in the Belgian defense, with Andrea Cambiaso capitalizing to poke home from close range after Maxim De Cuyper’s near own-goal was initially saved by Koen Casteels.

The Azzurri doubled their advantage in the 25th minute through Mateo Retegui. A sweeping attack saw Cambiaso’s effort parried by Casteels, only for Retegui to calmly slot home the rebound, putting Italy firmly in control.

However, the game’s complexion changed dramatically five minutes before halftime. Lorenzo Pellegrini received a straight red card following a VAR review for a dangerous tackle on Arthur Theate, reducing Italy to ten men.

Belgium immediately capitalized on their numerical advantage. A clever free-kick routine in the 42nd minute saw Maxim De Cuyper whip a superb effort past Gianluigi Donnarumma, bringing the Red Devils back into the contest before the break.

The second half saw Belgium press for an equalizer, which arrived in the 62nd minute. Wout Faes’ header from a corner was skillfully redirected by Leandro Trossard, who poked the ball into the near corner to level the scores.

Trossard emerged as the standout performer for Belgium, playing a pivotal role in both goals. The forward was at the heart of Belgium’s attacking play, registering 57 touches, making two key passes, and contributing defensively with two tackles and three duels won.

Despite being a man down, Italy managed to weather the Belgian storm in the closing stages, holding on for a point that keeps them at the summit of their group. The Azzurri will look to maintain their unbeaten start when they face Israel on Monday.

For Belgium, the comeback draw provides a significant boost to their Nations League campaign. Domenico Tedesco’s side will aim to build on this result when they host France in their next fixture on Monday.

Greece Stuns England with 2-1 Victory in Nations League Clash at Wembley

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Greece achieved a historic first victory over England at Wembley Stadium on Thursday night, winning 2-1 in a Nations League Group B2 match that dealt a blow to England’s caretaker manager Lee Carsley’s hopes of securing the job permanently.

Striker Vangelis Pavlidis emerged as the hero for Greece, scoring both goals including a dramatic winner in the fourth minute of stoppage time. The victory puts Greece in control of the group with a maximum nine points, while England suffered their first defeat under Carsley, leaving them second with six points.

Pavlidis opened the scoring early in the second half with a clinical finish, showcasing impressive footwork to dispatch a low shot past Jordan Pickford despite being surrounded by England defenders. The Greek striker’s performance was even more remarkable considering Greece had three goals disallowed throughout the match.

England, fielding an ultra-attacking lineup in the absence of injured captain Harry Kane, struggled to find their rhythm. Jude Bellingham appeared to have salvaged a point for the hosts with a powerful equalizer in the 87th minute, but Pavlidis capitalized on poor defending to score the winner from close range in stoppage time.

The defeat raises questions about Carsley’s tactics and England’s defensive vulnerabilities. John Stones, wearing the captain’s armband in Kane’s absence, expressed his disappointment: “On a personal note, absolutely gutted. To have a result like that with the armband for the first time. We prepared like we normally do and it didn’t come off.”

The evening began poignantly with a minute’s silence for former Greek international George Baldock, who passed away this week at the age of 31. Pavlidis dedicated the win to Baldock’s memory, saying, “We gave our soul for him tonight. Today is not a day to talk about football.”

Despite England’s attacking potential, with players like Cole Palmer, Phil Foden, and Bellingham in the starting lineup, it was Greece who created the better chances throughout the match. England goalkeeper Pickford had a nervy performance, nearly gifting Greece a goal in the first half when he lost possession near his own goal line.

As Greece celebrates this landmark victory, England and Carsley must regroup quickly. The result not only impacts their Nations League campaign but also raises questions about the team’s direction following Gareth Southgate’s departure.

With the next round of matches looming, both teams will be keen to build on this result – Greece looking to maintain their perfect start, and England aiming to bounce back from this unexpected setback at Wembley.

Diddy Appears Distressed in Court, to Remain Jailed as Court Sets May 2025 Trial Date

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Hip-hop mogul Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs appeared visibly distressed in Manhattan federal court on Thursday as he learned he would remain behind bars until his trial, now set for May 2025. The 54-year-old rapper, facing multiple sex trafficking and racketeering charges, has spent three weeks in custody following two rejected bail requests.

Court sketches depicted Combs in prison attire, a stark contrast to his usual stylish appearance. His mother, Janice Combs, 84, was seen in the background, having braved hecklers who shouted “Your son is a predator” as she entered the courthouse. The emotional family reunion, which included Combs’ children, was brief as the court proceedings dashed hopes of his release.

Combs’ legal team filed a third bail application just two days prior to the hearing, arguing that their client is not a flight risk. They highlighted Combs’ willingness to surrender his passport, sell his private jet, and offer his $48 million home as security. However, this appeal, now under consideration by the Second Circuit Court of Appeals, appears to be a final attempt at pre-trial release barring significant case developments.

The charges against Combs stem from his September 16 arrest, with prosecutors alleging a pattern of sex trafficking and racketeering offenses. Since his arrest, over 120 alleged victims have come forward, significantly expanding the scope of the investigation.

Despite the mounting allegations, Combs maintains his innocence and will face a jury trial next spring. The case has sent shockwaves through the entertainment industry, with many watching closely to see how it unfolds.

Man Sentenced to Over 10 Years for Attempted Child Sex Trafficking

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Dimitri Shawn McKenzie, a 29-year-old Boston resident, has been sentenced to 126 months in federal prison for attempting to purchase sex with a 14-year-old girl. U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young handed down the sentence, which will be followed by five years of supervised release.

The sentencing comes after McKenzie’s conviction in June 2024 on one count of attempted sex trafficking of a child, following a three-day jury trial. The case, prosecuted in federal court in Boston, stems from an undercover law enforcement operation conducted in November 2022.

According to court documents, McKenzie responded to an online advertisement purportedly offering two minor girls, ages 12 and 14, for sexual services in the Boston area. The advertisement was a fictitious post created by undercover law enforcement agents as part of a sting operation to catch potential child predators.

During subsequent text communications with undercover officers, McKenzie agreed to pay $100 for sex with the fictitious 14-year-old at a hotel. Upon arriving at the designated location, McKenzie met with an undercover agent posing as the seller in the hotel parking lot. He provided cash and accepted a hotel room key before being immediately taken into custody.

Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy emphasized the gravity of the crime and the importance of prosecuting those who drive demand for child sex trafficking. “The sad reality is that children are being sold for sex in our communities because of people like Dimitri McKenzie,” Levy stated. He warned potential offenders that undercover operations are ongoing, and those considering such crimes face severe consequences.

Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Krol of Homeland Security Investigations in New England echoed these sentiments, stating, “It is deeply disturbing to know that people pay to sexually abuse children. McKenzie was ready and willing to pay to sexually assault a child.”

This case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement agencies to combat child exploitation and sex trafficking. Authorities encourage anyone who may be impacted by or have knowledge of commercial sex trafficking to contact USAMA.VictimAssistance@usdoj.gov for assistance.

Source: DOJ

Hurricane Milton Death Toll Rises to At Least 16 in Florida

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At least 16 people have died in Florida as a result of Hurricane Milton’s devastating impact, according to officials who spoke to CBS News, the BBC’s US partner. The powerful storm, which made landfall as a Category 3 hurricane on Wednesday evening, has left a trail of destruction across the state, with millions without power and extensive flooding in its wake.

St. Lucie County on Florida’s east coast bore the brunt of the initial impact, with at least five fatalities reported. Local authorities confirmed that a dozen tornadoes touched down in the area before Milton’s arrival, contributing to the loss of life. The Spanish Lakes Country Club Village, a senior mobile home community near Fort Pierce, was among the hardest-hit areas, with at least one death reported there.

Further fatalities were confirmed in other parts of the state. St. Petersburg in central Florida reported two deaths, while Volusia County, approximately 50 miles from Orlando, saw at least two people killed when trees fell on their homes. One of the victims in Volusia County was identified as a 79-year-old woman. In Citrus County, officials reported one death resulting from a vehicle crash into a fallen tree.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, in a Thursday morning briefing, warned that the death toll could rise as rescue efforts continue and the full extent of the storm’s impact becomes clear. “We don’t have confirmed reports of other fatalities throughout the rest of the state, but we may as the day goes on,” DeSantis stated, adding that state forces had been involved in “definitely dozens of rescues” since the storm hit.

The hurricane brought torrential rains, with some areas receiving up to 18 inches (45 cm) of precipitation. Storm surges, while not reaching the feared 10-15 foot levels in Tampa Bay, still caused significant coastal flooding. In the Siesta Key area, where Milton made landfall, storm surges of 5-10 feet (1.5-3m) were reported.

The storm’s impact extends beyond the immediate loss of life. Approximately 3 million homes and businesses across Florida are without power, with additional outages reported in Georgia and North Carolina. In St. Petersburg, officials were forced to shut down the water supply system due to hurricane damage, leaving residents without water until repairs can be safely conducted.

As Milton moves eastward towards the Atlantic, north of the Bahamas, Florida begins the arduous task of recovery. Governor DeSantis warned that flooding remains a significant concern in the coming days, particularly as high tides could exacerbate river flooding across Hillsborough County and beyond.

The devastation wrought by Hurricane Milton compounds the challenges faced by the southeastern United States, which is still recovering from Hurricane Helene’s impact just two weeks prior.

Israeli Strikes on Central Beirut Kill 22, Injure 117, Lebanon Reports

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A building is destroyed after being hit by an Israeli airstrike in central Beirut, Lebanon, Thursday, Oct. 10, 2024. (AP Photo/Bilal Hussein)

Israeli air strikes on central Beirut have resulted in 22 deaths and 117 injuries, Lebanon’s Health Ministry reported on Thursday. The attacks, which targeted the Bachoura district, a predominantly Shia area of the Lebanese capital, mark a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hezbollah.

BBC reporters on the ground heard loud explosions echoing from the strike site in Bachoura. Rescue workers were observed digging through rubble, while numerous ambulances rushed the injured to the American University hospital.

Unconfirmed media reports suggest that the apparent target of the strikes was Wafiq Safa, brother-in-law of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and a high-ranking security official within the organization. Hezbollah’s media office has not yet commented on these reports.

The attacks on Beirut come after two days of relative calm in the capital, which had experienced intensive strikes in recent weeks. This marks the third time Israel has conducted air strikes on Beirut outside of the Dahieh suburb, an area repeatedly targeted for its association with Hezbollah commanders and munitions caches.

One eyewitness, who wished to remain anonymous, told reporters that the building hit was entirely residential, standing four or five stories tall. The woman, who was in an adjacent building at the time of the blast, reported that one of her relatives was being treated for head injuries.

These strikes coincide with an incident in southern Lebanon where two Indonesian UN peacekeepers were injured when an Israeli tank fired at a watchtower. The United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (Unifil) reported that an observation tower at their base in Naqoura was directly hit, causing the peacekeepers to fall.

The UN has accused Israeli forces of “repeatedly hitting” UN positions in the last 24 hours, including deliberately targeting cameras and lights at two other Unifil bases. The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) stated that their troops fired from the area around the base after ordering base members to remain in “protected places.”

Unifil, established in 1978 to monitor hostilities and ensure humanitarian access in southern Lebanon, currently has around 10,000 military peacekeepers from 50 countries, with Indonesia contributing the largest contingent of over 1,200 troops.

The situation remains tense, with Hezbollah claiming to have fired rockets at Israeli soldiers on the ground and using guided missiles to destroy a tank near Naqoura. Israel reportedly has four divisions of soldiers fighting inside Lebanon as part of its ground operations against Hezbollah, which began on September 30.

These events unfold against the backdrop of ongoing regional hostilities that have escalated since Hezbollah began firing rockets into northern Israel on October 8, 2023, following Hamas’s attack on southern Israel. The conflict has led to widespread displacement, with Lebanon’s government reporting that up to 1.2 million people have fled their homes over the past year.

One Dead, 12 Trapped in Colorado Gold Mine Elevator Accident

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A tragic incident at the Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine near Cripple Creek, Colorado, has left one person dead and 12 others trapped approximately 1,000 feet (305 meters) underground following an elevator malfunction, authorities reported on Thursday.

Teller County Sheriff Jason Mikesell stated in a press conference that the elevator experienced mechanical problems around 500 feet (152 meters) below the surface, creating a “severe danger for the participants.” The identity of the deceased and the cause of death have not been disclosed.

The 12 individuals still trapped at the bottom of the mine are reported to be in safe conditions and in communication with authorities. Sheriff Mikesell confirmed that two children were involved in the incident, though it’s unclear if they are among those still trapped.

Eleven people who were riding the elevator at the time of the malfunction were successfully rescued, with four sustaining minor injuries. The nature of these injuries and the specific mechanical issues with the elevator were not elaborated upon.

Rescue efforts are currently focused on safely reactivating the elevator system. “We want to inspect it, make sure it’s safe before bringing them back up with it,” Mikesell explained. He also noted that alternative rescue plans using ropes are in place if necessary.

The state of Colorado is sending an elevator expert to assist with the situation. Among those trapped is a member of the family mining operation with mine rescue experience, potentially aiding in maintaining calm and safety underground.

Communication with the trapped group is being maintained via radio, though they have not been fully informed about the extent of the elevator problem to prevent panic. The elevator typically takes about two minutes to descend, traveling at approximately 500 feet per minute.

Governor Jared Polis announced that the state is providing resources, including a specialized mine rescue team, stating, “We will do everything possible and assist the county to ensure a speedy and safe resolution of the situation.”

The Mollie Kathleen Gold Mine, which opened in the 1800s and closed in the 1960s, now operates as a tourist attraction. It offers one-hour tours that descend 1,000 feet into the earth, allowing visitors to see gold veins and ride an underground tram.

Witnesses Report Building Full of People Collapse in Beirut Strike, Casualties Feared-CNN

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Two witnesses have reported to CNN that an entire building collapsed in central Beirut following one of tonight’s strikes, stating that the structure was occupied by both long-term residents and people recently displaced by conflict.

Hassan, a witness interviewed outside a hospital near Beirut’s Upper Basta neighborhood, described the incident to CNN: “The bomb hit. And the entire building fell down. There were so many people in the building. Not just the residents but also people who were displaced from other parts of the country.”

A Lebanese security source had previously informed CNN that an Israeli strike had caused the collapse of a four-story building in Upper Basta. The incident has raised immediate concerns about potential civilian casualties and the targeting of residential areas in the ongoing conflict.

Outside the hospital, people gathered anxiously awaiting news of their loved ones. Partim, a migrant worker from Bangladesh, told CNN, “I’m waiting for my brother and sister. They were the concierges of the building. I’m sure they’re ok.”

The scene outside the hospital was one of tension and worry, with friends comforting each other as they waited for information. “Don’t worry,” one man was overheard telling his friend. “I’m sure we’ll hear from her very soon.”

In Beirut’s Al Nuwairi neighborhood, the site of another strike, reports indicate that a building’s third floor was hit. Eyewitnesses described seeing firetrucks and ambulances near the affected building, while women carrying bags were observed fleeing the area.

These incidents mark a significant escalation in the conflict, with strikes now directly impacting densely populated urban areas in Beirut. The reported targeting of buildings housing civilians, including displaced persons, raises serious humanitarian concerns and questions about the conduct of military operations in residential zones.

Futuristic 33,000-Seat Stadium to Replace Las Vegas’s Tropicana Resort

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The Oakland Athletics have revealed stunning new renderings for a futuristic 33,000-seat stadium set to replace the iconic Tropicana resort in Las Vegas. The $1.5 billion project, slated for completion in 2028, showcases an innovative design reminiscent of the Sydney Opera House.

The proposed ballpark features a distinctive domed roof with five overlapping layers, creating a striking silhouette on the Las Vegas skyline. Inside, plans include an 18,000-square-foot video board and a glass window beyond the outfield, offering spectators views of the famous Las Vegas Strip.

Designed by architectural firms Bjarke Ingels Group and HNTB, the stadium will occupy nine acres of the 35-acre site owned by Bally’s at the intersection of Tropicana Avenue and Las Vegas Boulevard. The project’s budget includes $380 million in taxpayer funding approved by the Nevada Legislature.

A’s owner John Fisher praised the collaboration between the architectural teams, stating, “The collaboration between BIG’s creativity and HNTB’s technical expertise allows for a truly innovative and bold design while ensuring an unmatched fan experience.”

The stadium complex will extend beyond the enclosed dome, featuring a massive patio area where fans can view the action from outside. This design element aims to integrate the ballpark with the vibrant atmosphere of the Las Vegas Strip.

George Papanier, president of Tropicana owner Bally’s Corp., described the project as a “once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” emphasizing its potential to become a new landmark that pays homage to Las Vegas’s iconic history and global appeal.

The unveiling of these plans follows the recent demolition of the Tropicana resort, which was imploded in a spectacular display of fireworks and drones. The implosion marked the end of the resort’s 67-year history, clearing the way for the new stadium and accompanying hotel development.

With the Athletics’ lease at their current home, the Oakland Coliseum, expiring after the 2024 season, the team will need a temporary venue for the 2025-2027 seasons before moving into their new Las Vegas home.

This ambitious project represents a significant shift for the Athletics franchise and promises to add a cutting-edge sports facility to Las Vegas’s already impressive array of attractions. As construction begins, the development is set to transform the corner of the Strip where the Tropicana once stood, ushering in a new era for both the team and the city.

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