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Barcelona Suffers First Defeat of Season in 4-2 Loss to Osasuna

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Barcelona’s perfect start to the 2024/25 La Liga season came to an abrupt end on Saturday as they fell to a 4-2 defeat against Osasuna at El Sadar Stadium.

The Catalan giants struggled to create chances and contain Osasuna’s attacking prowess throughout the match, marking Hansi Flick’s first defeat as Barcelona’s manager.

Osasuna dominated from the outset, with Ante Budimir opening the scoring with a header from Bryan Zaragoza’s cross. Zaragoza then doubled the lead, rounding Barcelona’s goalkeeper Inaki Pena, who was filling in for the injured Marc-Andre ter Stegen.

Barcelona showed signs of life early in the second half when Pau Victor capitalized on a defensive error to pull one back. However, Osasuna quickly reasserted control as Budimir converted a penalty following a foul by Sergi Dominguez.

Abel Bretones extended Osasuna’s lead with a stunning strike for his first La Liga goal. Barcelona’s 17-year-old prodigy Lamine Yamal scored a late consolation with a curling effort, but it wasn’t enough to prevent Barcelona’s first league defeat of the campaign.

“We were outplayed in every aspect of the game,” Flick said in the post-match press conference. “This is a wake-up call for us. We need to improve quickly.”

Osasuna’s manager, Jagoba Arrasate, praised his team’s performance: “We executed our game plan perfectly. This victory against Barcelona is a testament to our hard work and belief.”

The result raises questions about Barcelona’s depth and adaptability, especially in the absence of key players. For Osasuna, the win serves as a statement of intent for their season ambitions.

Barcelona will look to rebound in their next fixture, while Osasuna will aim to build on this significant victory as the La Liga season progresses.

Liverpool Edges Wolves 2-1 in Premier League Thriller

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Liverpool overcame a spirited Wolverhampton Wanderers side to secure a 2-1 victory in Premier League action on Saturday, extending their dominance over Wolves to 15 wins in their last 16 league encounters.

The match at Molineux Stadium saw Liverpool tested early, with Wolves applying pressure and creating chances. Jean-Ricner Bellegarde had an early opportunity for the hosts but failed to capitalize.

Liverpool’s goalkeeper Alisson Becker was called into action, making key saves including a stretching effort to intercept Nelson Semedo’s cross and catching a curling shot from Matheus Cunha.

The breakthrough came in the 40th minute when Ibrahima Konate headed in Diogo Jota’s cross, scoring his first-ever Premier League goal. The ball squirmed through Wolves goalkeeper Sam Johnstone’s hands, giving Liverpool the lead at halftime.

The second half saw a moment of drama as Konate’s error allowed Jorgen Strand Larsen to initiate a sequence that led to Rayan Ait-Nouri equalizing for Wolves. However, the celebrations were short-lived as Nelson Semedo fouled Jota in the box, resulting in a penalty.

Mohamed Salah stepped up to clinically convert the spot-kick, restoring Liverpool’s lead and ultimately securing the victory.

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp praised his team’s resilience: “It wasn’t our best performance, but we showed character to get the result. These are the kind of games that can define a season.”

Wolves boss Gary O’Neil expressed disappointment: “We gave Liverpool a real fight today. The penalty decision was tough to take, but we need to build on this performance.”

The win propels Liverpool to the top of the Premier League table, while Wolves remain in 20th place with their only victory this season coming in the Carabao Cup.

Ryan Gravenberch was named Man of the Match for his influential midfield performance for Liverpool.

US Fund Grants Sierra Leone $480 Million to Boost Electricity Access

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The Millennium Challenge Corporation (MCC), a U.S. government agency, announced on Thursday the signing of a $480 million compact with Sierra Leone aimed at dramatically improving the country’s electricity infrastructure and access.

MCC CEO Alice Albright and Sierra Leone’s Minister of Finance Sheku Bangura signed the agreement, which is expected to benefit 4.6 million people in a country where 70 percent of the population currently lacks access to electricity.

The five-year grant, supplemented by a $14.2 million contribution from the Sierra Leone government, will fund three major energy projects. The Transmission Backbone Project will expand the transmission network to increase coverage and reliability of service. It’s also designed to facilitate additional energy trading with other West African countries and support private sector power generation, including the Nant Energy project financed by the U.S. Development Finance Corporation.

The Distribution and Access Project aims to increase grid reliability by reducing losses and barriers to access in selected communities, with a specific focus on schools, health facilities, businesses, and households.

The Power Sector Reform Project will focus on improving the energy sector’s sustainability by reducing service costs, generating additional private financing, and improving regulations.

The compact’s approval comes after a period of uncertainty following Sierra Leone’s controversial 2022 presidential and general elections. The U.S. government and several international observers had initially rejected the results, which declared President Julius Maada Bio the winner, as lacking credibility.

However, the MCC cited “significant progress” made by the Sierra Leone government in implementing the Agreement for National Unity (ANU) as a factor in moving forward with the compact. The ANU provides a pathway towards electoral reform and inter-party dialogue.

“This compact represents a transformative investment in Sierra Leone’s future,” said Albright. “By dramatically improving access to reliable electricity, we’re not just powering homes and businesses; we’re powering economic growth and opportunity for millions of Sierra Leoneans.”

The MCC emphasized that during the next phase of partnership, its Board of Directors and Congressional stakeholders expect the Sierra Leone government to continue implementing the ANU and the recommended reforms to strengthen democratic institutions, national unity, and accountability for electoral misconduct.

This compact builds on a previous partnership between MCC and Sierra Leone. In 2014, the two collaborated on a $40.54 million threshold program to support policy and institutional reform in the water and electricity sectors.

Sierra Leone’s economy has been struggling with low growth, high unemployment, and poor access to electricity. This substantial investment is expected to play a crucial role in addressing these challenges and stimulating economic development.

As the compact moves into its implementation phase, both U.S. and Sierra Leonean officials express optimism about its potential impact on the country’s infrastructure and economy. However, watchdog organizations emphasize the need for transparent oversight to ensure the funds achieve their intended purpose.

At Least 22 Dead as Storm John Dissipates Over Mexico

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The remnants of Hurricane John continued to wreak havoc across southwestern Mexico on Saturday, leaving at least 22 people dead and forcing residents to evacuate flooded homes after a week of devastating weather along the Pacific coastline.

Guerrero state, one of Mexico’s poorest regions, bore the brunt of the storm’s impact with 18 reported fatalities, many due to mudslides that crushed houses, according to local media. Three deaths were reported in neighboring Oaxaca state to the south, while a young boy died in a river in Michoacan state to the north.

John, which rapidly intensified into a major hurricane on Monday before making landfall in Guerrero, re-formed offshore and skirted the coastline northward for the rest of the week, bringing torrential rains and widespread flooding. The storm began dissipating on Friday and is no longer considered an active system.

Guerrero state governor Evelyn Salgado shared images on social media platform X of emergency responders in Acapulco, a major resort city, carrying out rescue operations by boat, jet ski, and helicopter. Residents were seen wading through floodwaters up to waist-high.

“We are working tirelessly to ensure the safety of our citizens and to begin the recovery process,” Salgado stated. She also announced that access to the Acapulco airport had been reestablished Saturday morning, a crucial step in facilitating aid and recovery efforts.

The situation in Acapulco is particularly dire, as the city is still recovering from the devastating impact of Hurricane Otis in October 2023. Otis, a Category 5 storm, left over 50 people dead and caused billions of dollars in damages. Remarkably, John’s rainfall nearly tripled the amount generated by Otis, exacerbating the city’s vulnerabilities.

Residents who evacuated flooded neighborhoods on makeshift rafts and surfboards pleaded with authorities for support, highlighting the urgent need for assistance in a city facing its second major disaster in less than a year.

Mexico’s national weather service forecasts that while John has dissipated, residual moisture could still bring heavy rains to parts of Guerrero and neighboring states in the coming days, potentially complicating rescue and recovery efforts.

The Mexican government has mobilized federal resources to assist in the affected areas, with President Andrés Manuel López Obrador pledging full support for the recovery process. “We stand with the people of Guerrero and all those affected by this tragedy,” the President said in a statement. “No effort will be spared in providing aid and rebuilding.”

As the immediate crisis response continues, questions are being raised about long-term disaster preparedness and infrastructure resilience in Mexico’s coastal regions, which are increasingly vulnerable to extreme weather events.

REUTERS

Death Toll in Russian Petrol Station Explosion Rises to 13

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The death toll from a devastating explosion at a petrol station in Dagestan, Russia’s Caspian Sea region, has climbed to 13, including two children, the Russian emergencies ministry reported on Saturday.

The blast, which occurred Friday outside the regional capital of Makhachkala, also left 23 people injured. Alexei Kuznetsov, an aide to the healthcare minister, told the state news agency RIA that four individuals remain hospitalized, with one in serious condition.

Local authorities have declared September 28 a day of mourning in the region as search operations continue at the blast site.

The explosion caused partial power disruptions in nearby districts, according to Dagenergo, the regional power operator. The local branch of the Investigative Committee, which handles serious crimes in Russia, has opened a criminal case into the incident.

Preliminary investigations have found no traces of explosives at the scene, the committee stated on its Telegram channel, suggesting the blast may have been accidental.

Dagestan Governor Sergei Melikov addressed the incident in a briefing, revealing that while previous inspections had uncovered violations at the petrol station, these issues had reportedly been resolved prior to the explosion. Melikov also noted that over 130 petrol stations in Dagestan that had been closed in the past year due to various infractions had resumed operations following local court decisions.

“This tragic incident underscores the critical importance of maintaining strict safety standards at all times,” Melikov said. “We are conducting a thorough investigation to understand how this happened and to prevent such disasters in the future.”

Iran’s Supreme Leader Moved to Secure Location Following Hezbollah Leader’s Death-Reuters

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Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has been moved to a secure location within the country, sources told Reuters on Saturday, a day after Israel killed Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah in a strike on Beirut.

This precautionary measure underscores the heightened tension in the region following the death of Nasrallah, who led the Iran-backed Lebanese militant group Hezbollah. The sources, who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter, said Iran is in contact with Hezbollah and other regional proxy groups to determine the next steps.

The strike that killed Nasrallah also claimed the life of Abbas Nilforoushan, the deputy commander of Iran’s Revolutionary Guards, according to Iranian media reports on Saturday. This latest loss adds to a series of high-ranking Revolutionary Guard commanders killed since the outbreak of the Gaza War last year.

In response to Nasrallah’s death, Khamenei issued a statement saying, “The fate of this region will be determined by the forces of resistance, with Hezbollah at the forefront.” He also declared five days of mourning, vowing that “The blood of the martyr shall not go unavenged.”

The loss of Nasrallah is a significant blow to Iran’s regional influence. Nasrallah was instrumental in building Hezbollah into a key component of Tehran’s network of allied groups in the Arab world, known as the ‘Axis of Resistance’. This network includes Hamas in Gaza, Iran-backed militias in Iraq, and the Houthis in Yemen.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian accused the United States of complicity in Nasrallah’s death, citing its role as a weapons supplier to Israel. “The Americans cannot deny their complicity with the Zionists,” he said in a statement carried by state media.

Demonstrators chant during an anti-Israel protest following an Israeli strike on Lebanon, in Tehran, Iran, September 28, 2024. Majid Asgaripour/WANA (West Asia News Agency) via REUTERS

The recent events have heightened security concerns within Iran. Earlier this month, Reuters reported that the Revolutionary Guards had ordered its members to stop using communication devices after thousands of pagers and walkie-talkies used by Hezbollah exploded. An Iranian security official, speaking anonymously, revealed that a large-scale operation is underway to inspect all communications devices, many of which were either homemade or imported from China and Russia.

The official added that Iran is concerned about infiltration by Israeli agents, including Iranians potentially on Israel’s payroll. A thorough investigation of personnel, targeting mid and high-ranking members of the Revolutionary Guards, has already begun.

Arsenal Secures 4-2 Victory Over Leicester with Dramatic Stoppage-Time Goals

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Arsenal overcame a second-half scare to defeat Leicester City 4-2 in a thrilling Premier League encounter at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday, with two stoppage-time goals sealing the win after the Gunners had squandered a two-goal lead.

The match began with Arsenal dominating possession against a defensive Leicester side. The breakthrough came in the 20th minute when Gabriel Martinelli emphatically tucked away Jurrien Timber’s cross, giving the hosts a deserved lead.

Arsenal doubled their advantage just before halftime. Martinelli turned provider, setting up Leandro Trossard, who finished with precision to make it 2-0. The Belgian’s goal was particularly significant, coming a week after his red card at Manchester City.

The game took a dramatic turn after the break. Leicester, who had managed just one shot in the first half, pulled a goal back two minutes into the second half. James Justin’s free-kick took a huge deflection off Kai Havertz, wrong-footing Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya.

Despite Arsenal’s attempts to restore their two-goal cushion, with Gabriel’s header forcing a save from Mads Hermansen and Trossard hitting the post, it was Leicester who struck next. Justin scored his second with a stunning volley on the hour mark, silencing the home crowd and leveling the score at 2-2.

The match seemed headed for a draw until Arsenal’s late surge. In the 94th minute, a corner led to a goalmouth scramble, with the ball eventually crossing the line off Leicester’s Wilfred Ndidi. Havertz then sealed the victory five minutes later, poking into an empty net to make it 4-2.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta expressed relief and pride after the match: “We showed great character to come back and win after letting our lead slip. It’s these kinds of victories that can define a season.”

Leicester boss Enzo Maresca lamented his team’s late collapse: “We fought hard to get back into the game, but those last few minutes were cruel. We need to learn to see out these tight matches.”

The win keeps Arsenal in the title race, closing the gap on league leaders Manchester City. For Leicester, the defeat is a setback in their bid for European qualification.

Notable performances came from Martinelli, who scored one and assisted another, and Justin, whose brace nearly earned Leicester a point. The match also saw young Arsenal substitute Ethan Nwaneri make an impact, forcing a save from Hermansen. This roller-coaster of a game served as a reminder of the Premier League’s unpredictable nature and Arsenal’s

Palmer’s Four-Goal Haul Leads Chelsea to 4-2 Victory Over Brighton

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Cole Palmer made Premier League history with four first-half goals as Chelsea secured a thrilling 4-2 victory over Brighton & Hove Albion at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, extending their unbeaten run in the league.

The match began with Brighton taking an early lead through Georginio Rutter, who capitalized on a defensive mishap to head into an empty net past Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez.

Chelsea’s response came through Palmer, who, after hitting the post and having a goal disallowed for offside, finally found the net by pouncing on a poor back pass from Brighton’s Adam Webster. Palmer then converted a penalty after Jadon Sancho was fouled in the box, putting Chelsea ahead.

The 21-year-old midfielder completed his hat-trick with a spectacular 25-yard free-kick, becoming the first player in Premier League history to score four goals in the first half of a match. His fourth came from an underlapping run, finishing at the near post.

Brighton showed resilience, with Carlos Baleba scoring after a mistake by Sanchez, keeping the visitors in contention.

The second half saw both teams creating chances, with Brighton appealing for penalties and Chelsea having a goal disallowed for offside. Despite the high-octane start to the second period, the game’s pace slowed in the closing stages, allowing Chelsea to secure the win.

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca praised Palmer’s performance: “Cole was exceptional today. His ability to find space and finish clinically was the difference in the game.”

Brighton’s Fabian Hurzeler, tasting his first defeat as the Seagulls’ boss, commented: “We started well but couldn’t handle Chelsea’s pressure. Palmer’s performance was outstanding, and we must learn from this.”

The victory puts Chelsea within a point of the top of the table, showcasing their resurgence under Maresca’s guidance. For Brighton, the loss highlights defensive vulnerabilities that Hurzeler will need to address.

Palmer’s historic performance will likely dominate headlines, but the match as a whole served as a testament to the Premier League’s reputation for high-scoring, dramatic encounters.

As both teams look ahead, Chelsea will aim to maintain their momentum, while Brighton will seek to regroup and address the defensive issues exposed in this match.

Manhunt Underway After 17 Killed in South African Mass Shooting

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South African police have launched a manhunt following a mass shooting that left 17 people dead and one critically injured in the remote town of Lusikisiki, Eastern Cape province.

The attack, which occurred on Friday night, targeted two homesteads in Nyathi village, Ngobozana area of Lusikisiki. At one location, 12 women and one man were killed, while three women and one man lost their lives at the second site, according to the South Africa Police Service (SAPS).

Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, SAPS spokesperson, told Newzroom Afrika that 19 people were sleeping in two homes at one of the shooting locations. Six survivors were reported at one homestead, including four women, a man, and an unharmed two-month-old child who was taken to hospital as a precaution. There were no survivors at the other homestead.

Local media reports suggest the victims were relatives and neighbors gathered to prepare for a traditional mourning ceremony commemorating a mother and daughter murdered a year ago. The group was reportedly packing goods and presents, including furniture, for the event when the attack occurred.

Ingquza Hill Mayor Nonkosi Pepping told Dispatch Live, “The gunmen came and shot randomly… This has left the community terrified.”

Police Minister Senzo Mchunu is expected to visit the area where the attack took place. Authorities have yet to determine a motive or make any arrests.

Cabinet member for community safety, Xolile Nqatha, expressed hope for the recovery of the critically injured survivor, telling state broadcaster SABC, “His recovery can help us shed more light” on the shooting. Nqatha also suggested that the assailants may have been known to the victims.

Brigadier Mathe stated, “We have a team of detectives that is already on the ground. We have a team of experts coming in from Pretoria that are descending in Lusikisiki, to investigate, to collect all evidence with the aim of apprehending those [who] are behind these callous attacks.”

This tragic incident underscores South Africa’s ongoing struggle with violent crime. According to the latest figures from the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, the country has one of the highest murder rates globally. In 2022, there were over 27,000 murders, equating to 45 people per 100,000 in a population of almost 60 million. For comparison, the U.S. rate stands at six per 100,000.

bbc.com

Mali Junta Arrests Four Barrick Gold Employees

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Mali’s military-led government has arrested four senior Malian employees of Canadian mining giant Barrick Gold, according to two sources who spoke on condition of anonymity due to the sensitivity of the matter.

The arrests, which reportedly took place on Wednesday, come amid growing pressure on international mining companies operating in Mali since a military junta seized power in 2020.

A government official based in the region said the four Barrick employees were arrested for alleged financial crimes. Barrick Gold, the world’s second-largest gold miner and one of Mali’s top gold producers, declined to comment on the arrests. Malian authorities could not be immediately reached for comment.

This development highlights the increasing tensions between Mali’s junta and international mining companies as the government seeks to exert greater control over the country’s valuable gold resources.

Mali, one of Africa’s biggest gold producers, has recently implemented a new mining code that allows the government to increase its ownership of gold concessions. This move is part of a broader policy shift aimed at channeling a larger share of gold revenue to state coffers.

The junta’s shake-up of the mining sector aligns with its wider strategy of distancing Mali from traditional Western allies, particularly France, while seeking closer diplomatic, security, and commercial ties with Russia.

In a significant move last year, Mali signed an agreement with Russia to construct a gold refinery in the capital, Bamako. The country also reached a deal with Russian state nuclear energy company Rosatom to explore for minerals and produce nuclear energy.

These arrests and policy changes reflect the complex challenges facing international mining companies operating in Mali’s evolving political and economic landscape. The situation raises questions about the future of foreign investment in Mali’s mining sector and the potential impact on the country’s economy.

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