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Atletico Madrid vs Real Madrid Match Suspended Due to Crowd Trouble

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The high-profile La Liga match between Atletico Madrid and Real Madrid was temporarily suspended on Sunday due to crowd trouble at the Civitas Metropolitano stadium.

Referee Mateo Busquets halted play in the 69th minute, shortly after Real Madrid had taken a 1-0 lead through Eder Militao. Supporters behind Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois’ goal hurled multiple objects onto the pitch, including lighters and a plastic bag containing an unknown substance.

Both teams were ordered back to their dressing rooms as officials attempted to restore order. Atletico players Jose Maria Gimenez and Koke, along with manager Diego Simeone, approached the stands to appeal for calm.

The ultras responsible for the disruption were seen wearing masks to conceal their identities. Spanish media had previously reported concerns about potential troublemaking, particularly targeting Real Madrid player Vinicius Junior, who has been subjected to racial abuse in the past.

La Liga had issued a statement on Saturday condemning a “hate campaign” and threatening legal action against those promoting racist behavior. “LaLiga vigorously condemns these actions that – directly or indirectly – encourage, promote and incite hatred against an individual, in this case, the player Vinicius Junior, because of his race,” the statement read.

Stadium announcements warned fans that continued misbehavior could result in the match’s premature end. After a 36-minute delay, play resumed at 22:45 local time.

A La Liga spokesperson, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the ongoing situation, said: “We are working closely with both clubs and local authorities to identify those responsible for this unacceptable behavior. There will be consequences for these actions.”

Real Madrid Held to 1-1 Draw by Atletico Madrid After 95th-Minute Equalizer

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Real Madrid conceded a 95th-minute equalizer to draw 1-1 with city rivals Atletico Madrid in a tense La Liga encounter on Sunday, marked by a temporary suspension due to crowd trouble.

Eder Militao had given Real Madrid the lead in the 62nd minute with a deflected half-volley, but Angel Correa’s last-gasp strike, initially ruled offside before being allowed after a VAR check, ensured the points were shared at the Civitas Metropolitano.

The match was suspended for approximately 15 minutes in the second half when Atletico supporters behind Thibaut Courtois’ goal threw objects onto the pitch.

Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti expressed frustration at the late equalizer: “We were so close to a very important victory. It’s disappointing to concede so late, but that’s football.”

Atletico’s Diego Simeone praised his team’s persistence: “The spirit of this team is incredible. We never give up, and today it paid off.”

The game saw both goalkeepers in fine form, with Courtois and Jan Oblak making crucial saves throughout. Jude Bellingham, Real Madrid’s recent signing, had a quiet game by his standards, unable to break through Atletico’s stubborn defense.

The drama continued after the equalizer, with Marcos Llorente receiving a red card for a challenge on Fran Garcia, but Real Madrid couldn’t capitalize on the brief one-man advantage in the dying moments.

This result leaves both Madrid clubs trailing league leaders Barcelona, who surprisingly lost 4-2 to Osasuna on Saturday, keeping the title race wide open.

Top Russian Drone Warfare Colonel Found Dead Near Moscow

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Ukraine’s military intelligence directorate (GUR) reported Wednesday that Aleksey Kolomeitsev, a high-ranking Russian colonel who led the country’s kamikaze drone unit, was found dead near Moscow on September 27.

Kolomeitsev, 51, was regarded as a key figure in Vladimir Putin’s military structure, responsible for training Russia’s unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operators and directly involved in the invasion of Ukraine, according to Ukrainian officials.

The GUR announced the “elimination of a war criminal” but did not provide details on the circumstances of Kolomeitsev’s death. Ukrainian sources suggested the incident was a result of a joint operation between Ukrainian military intelligence and anti-Putin fighters within Russia.

“The occupier is directly involved in the full-scale invasion of Russia and the commission of war crimes against Ukraine,” the GUR stated. “The GUR of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine reminds that there will be a fair retribution for every war crime.”

Kolomeitsev led Russia’s 924th State Center of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles, which specialized in drone warfare, particularly the deployment of Iranian-made UAVs in combat. These Shahed-M drones, with a range of 1,550 miles, have been responsible for hundreds of Ukrainian casualties since the conflict began in February 2022.

This incident follows the reported death of Aleksandr Korobov, a Kremlin propagandist, in Belgorod on September 15. Ukrainian officials stated Korobov had his skull crushed in what appeared to be an assassination, though they did not claim responsibility.

Austria’s Far-Right Freedom Party Poised for First National Election Victory

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Austria’s far-right Freedom Party (FPÖ) appeared headed for its first victory in a national parliamentary election since World War II on Sunday, according to projections based on partial vote counts.

A projection by ORF public television, using about two-thirds of counted votes, showed the Freedom Party leading with 29.1% support, followed by Chancellor Karl Nehammer’s Austrian People’s Party (ÖVP) at 26.3%. The center-left Social Democrats trailed in third place with 21%.

The result, if confirmed, would mark a significant shift in Austria’s political landscape and reflect growing support for far-right parties across Europe.

Herbert Kickl, the Freedom Party’s leader since 2021 and a former interior minister, has expressed his desire to become chancellor. However, forming a government may prove challenging as rivals have stated they won’t work with Kickl.

“We don’t need to change our position, because we have always said that we’re ready to lead a government,” Kickl said in a televised appearance. “The other parties should ask themselves where they stand on democracy.”

The Freedom Party’s surge in popularity has been attributed to several factors, including frustration over high inflation, concerns about the war in Ukraine, lingering resentment over COVID-19 pandemic measures, and worries about migration.

The party’s election program, titled “Fortress Austria,” calls for the “remigration of uninvited foreigners” and achieving a more “homogeneous” nation through tight border controls and suspension of asylum rights via emergency law.

Chancellor Nehammer acknowledged the defeat, calling it “bitter” but noted he had improved his party’s standing from earlier poll predictions. He reiterated his pre-election stance of not forming a coalition with Kickl.

The election saw more than 6.3 million people aged 16 and over eligible to vote for the new parliament in Austria, an EU member with a policy of military neutrality.

This projected result would be the Freedom Party’s best performance in a national parliamentary election, surpassing its 26.9% share in 1999. The party has rebounded significantly since a 2019 scandal that led to the collapse of a coalition government in which it was the junior partner.

The outcome has drawn congratulations from other European far-right leaders, including Geert Wilders of the Netherlands and Alice Weidel of Germany’s Alternative for Germany party.

As vote counting continues, the final results could reshape Austria’s political alliances and potentially influence the country’s stance on key issues such as immigration, EU relations, and support for Ukraine.

AP

Zookeeper Killed by Lion at Nigerian Presidential Library Wildlife Park

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A 35-year-old zookeeper was mauled to death by a lion at the Presidential Library Wildlife Park in Abeokuta, Nigeria, after failing to secure the animal’s enclosure during a feeding routine, local police reported Sunday.

The incident occurred Saturday evening at the facility owned by former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo in Ogun state. Police spokesperson Omolola Odutola stated that “the lion inflicted serious fatal injuries to the man’s neck.”

According to a statement from the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, the zookeeper, identified as Babaji Daule, had taken guests to observe the lion’s feeding after regular hours. “The zookeeper, apparently feeling comfortable with the animal, left the safety protection gate open and proceeded to feed the animal. He was mauled by the animal and died on the spot,” the statement read.

To prevent further mutilation of the body, park personnel were forced to put down the lion immediately.

This tragic event comes less than a year after a similar incident at Obafemi Awolowo University, also in southwestern Nigeria, where another zookeeper was killed by a lion.

The back-to-back fatalities have sparked concerns about zoo safety protocols and wildlife management in Nigeria. Critics are calling for a review of regulations governing animal handling and zoo operations across the country.

“These incidents highlight the need for stricter safety measures and better training for zoo staff,” said Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, a wildlife conservation expert at the University of Ibadan, who was not involved in the incident. “We must ensure that both animals and humans are protected in these environments.”

The Nigerian Association of Zoological Gardens and Wildlife Parks announced it would be conducting an urgent review of safety protocols at all member institutions in light of the recent tragedies.

As investigations continue, the incident has reignited debates about the ethics of keeping wild animals in captivity and the risks associated with human-wildlife interactions in controlled environments.

Local authorities have stated that a full inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the zookeeper’s death will be conducted, with findings to be made public upon completion.

Hezbollah Confirms Death of Another Senior Figure, Ali Karki, in Israeli Airstrike

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Hezbollah has confirmed that Ali Karki, a senior military commander, was killed alongside the group’s leader Hassan Nasrallah in Friday’s massive Israeli airstrike on southern Beirut.

Karki, who had been commanding Hezbollah’s southern front forces for the past year, was a veteran of previous conflicts with Israel in 2000 and 2006, according to a statement from the militant group.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) released additional information on Sunday, claiming that more than 20 Hezbollah members “of varying ranks, who were present at the underground headquarters in Beirut” were killed in the strike. Among those named were Ibrahim Hussein Jazini, head of Nasrallah’s security unit, and Samir Tawfiq Dib, a long-time adviser to Nasrallah. The IDF described both as “among Nasrallah’s closest associates.”

The Israeli military also reported the death of Ali Naaf Ayoub, who was responsible for coordinating Hezbollah’s firepower.

“This strike has significantly impacted Hezbollah’s leadership structure,” an IDF spokesperson said, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the operation.

Hezbollah has not commented on the additional casualties claimed by Israel beyond confirming the deaths of Nasrallah and Karki.

Tottenham Thrash 10-Man Manchester United 3-0 at Old Trafford

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Tottenham Hotspur delivered a commanding performance to defeat 10-man Manchester United 3-0 at Old Trafford on Sunday, further deepening the crisis for the home team in the 2024/25 Premier League season.

Brennan Johnson opened the scoring for Tottenham in the third minute, capitalizing on a swift counterattack initiated by Micky van de Ven. The visitors dominated the first half, with United struggling to find their rhythm.

The Red Devils’ woes compounded just before halftime when captain Bruno Fernandes was sent off for a high challenge on James Maddison, leaving United a man down for the entire second half.

Tottenham took full advantage after the break, with Dejan Kulusevski doubling their lead through an impressive volley. Dominic Solanke sealed the victory late in the game, tapping in from close range after a well-executed set-piece.

“We played with intensity and purpose throughout the match,” said Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglou. “Even before the red card, we were in control, and we made the most of our numerical advantage in the second half.”

The defeat puts increased pressure on Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag, whose team has now suffered their third loss in five league games this season.

“It’s a difficult moment for us,” Ten Hag admitted. “We need to stay united and work harder to turn this situation around.”

Tottenham’s victory, their fourth consecutive win since losing to Arsenal in the North London derby, moves them into third place in the Premier League table.

The match highlighted Tottenham’s tactical flexibility, as they adjusted well to the absence of injured captain Son Heung-min. Timo Werner’s inclusion provided additional pace, allowing James Maddison and Kulusevski more freedom in midfield.

For Manchester United, the result raises questions about their defensive stability and offensive capabilities. The team struggled to create clear chances even before Fernandes’ dismissal, with Marcus Rashford’s early attempt their only notable opportunity.

As the Premier League season progresses, Tottenham’s form suggests they could be serious contenders for a top-four finish, while Manchester United face a challenging period to regain their footing in the title race.

Marburg Virus Outbreak Claims Six Lives in Rwanda

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Rwanda’s Health Minister Sabin Nsanzimana announced Sunday that six people have died from an outbreak of Marburg virus in the country, with most of the victims being healthcare workers in the intensive care unit.

The outbreak, confirmed on Friday, has so far resulted in 20 identified cases. Marburg virus, which belongs to the same family as Ebola, has a fatality rate of up to 88% and is transmitted to humans from fruit bats, spreading further through contact with bodily fluids of infected individuals.

“We are deeply concerned about this outbreak, particularly its impact on our healthcare workers,” Nsanzimana said. “We are taking all necessary measures to contain its spread.”

Symptoms of Marburg virus include fever, muscle pains, diarrhea, vomiting, and in severe cases, death through extreme blood loss. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that while there are no specific treatments or vaccines for the virus, a range of blood products, drugs, and immune therapies are in development.

Rwandan authorities have intensified their response to the outbreak, focusing on contact tracing, surveillance, and testing. The public is being urged to remain vigilant, practice good hygiene by washing hands with clean water and soap or using sanitizer, and report all suspected cases.

“Public cooperation is crucial in our efforts to contain this outbreak,” a spokesperson for the Rwanda Biomedical Centre said, speaking on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the situation.

This outbreak follows similar incidents in neighboring countries. Tanzania reported an outbreak in 2023, while Uganda experienced three deaths from the virus in 2017.

U.S. Airstrikes in Syria Kill 37 Militants Linked to Islamic State, Al-Qaeda

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The U.S. military announced Sunday that recent airstrikes in Syria have killed 37 militants affiliated with the Islamic State group and an al-Qaeda-linked organization, including two senior leaders.

U.S. Central Command reported two separate operations. The first, conducted on Tuesday in northwestern Syria, targeted a senior militant from the al-Qaeda-linked Hurras al-Deen group and eight others. The military stated that the targeted individual was responsible for overseeing military operations.

In a separate strike on September 16, U.S. forces carried out what they described as a “large-scale airstrike” on an Islamic State training camp in an undisclosed location in central Syria. This operation resulted in the deaths of 28 militants, including “at least four Syrian leaders,” according to the military statement.

“The airstrike will disrupt ISIS’ capability to conduct operations against U.S. interests, as well as our allies and partners,” the statement read, using an acronym for the Islamic State group.

These operations underscore the ongoing U.S. military presence in Syria, where approximately 900 American forces, along with an undisclosed number of contractors, remain deployed. Their primary mission is to prevent a resurgence of the Islamic State group, which seized control of large areas in Iraq and Syria in 2014.

U.S. forces continue to advise and assist the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces, their key allies in northeastern Syria. This region is strategically significant, bordering areas where Iran-backed militant groups maintain a presence, including a crucial border crossing with Iraq.

At Least Six Killed in Somalia Bomb Blasts

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At least six people were killed and 10 others injured on Saturday in separate bomb explosions in Somalia’s capital Mogadishu and the town of Jowhar in the Middle Shabelle region, according to police and witnesses.

In Mogadishu, a car rigged with explosives detonated near the National Theatre, approximately one kilometer from the president’s office. The blast killed five people and injured seven others, according to two police officers who spoke on condition of anonymity as they were not authorized to speak to the press.

“The explosion was powerful and caused significant damage to nearby buildings,” one of the officers said. “We are still investigating the full extent of the casualties and damage.”

In a separate incident in Jowhar, a bomb planted in a livestock market killed one person and injured three civilians, Jowhar police commander Bashir Hassan told reporters at a press conference.

No group immediately claimed responsibility for the attacks. However, the Islamist militant group al Shabaab frequently carries out bombings and gun attacks in Mogadishu and other parts of Somalia in its long-standing campaign to topple the country’s central government and establish rule based on its strict interpretation of Islamic sharia law.

The attacks come as Somalia continues to grapple with ongoing security challenges and political instability. The country has been struggling to rebuild after decades of civil war and the persistent threat of al Shabaab, which controls large parts of southern and central Somalia.

Somalia’s government, backed by African Union peacekeepers and international partners, has made some progress in recent years in pushing back al Shabaab, but the group remains capable of carrying out deadly attacks in urban areas.

REUTERS