Home Blog Page 809

USA Women’s Soccer vs. Germany: How to Watch Live, Stream Link, Team News, and Predictions for Olympic Semifinal

The highly anticipated Olympic semifinal clash between the USA and Germany women’s soccer teams is set to captivate fans worldwide. With both teams showcasing exceptional talent and determination, this match promises to be a thrilling encounter as they vie for a spot in the final. Here’s everything you need to know about watching the game live, team news, and predictions.

Match Details

– Date: Wednesday, August 7

– Time: 12 p.m. ET

– Location: Parc des Princes, Paris, France

How to Watch Live

Soccer fans can catch all the action live by tuning into NBC, which holds the broadcasting rights for Olympic soccer matches. For those who prefer streaming, the match will be available on Peacock, NBC’s streaming service, allowing you to watch the game on various devices.

– Watch on NBC:Tune in to NBC at 12 p.m. ET to catch the live broadcast.

– Watch via Peacock: Stream the match live by subscribing to Peacock and accessing the sports section.

Team News

USA Team Update

The USA women’s team has been in phenomenal form throughout the tournament, displaying strong performances and teamwork. Led by captain Alex Morgan, the squad is poised to continue their winning streak. The team will look to capitalize on their speed and attacking prowess, with key players like Megan Rapinoe and Rose Lavelle expected to play crucial roles.

Emma Hayes’ side battled past Japan 1-0 after extra time in the quarterfinals, showcasing their resilience and ability to perform under pressure. The USA will aim to maintain their defensive solidity while seeking opportunities to break down Germany’s defense.

Germany Team Update

Germany has also impressed in their Olympic campaign, boasting a well-balanced squad that combines youth and experience. The team is known for its tactical discipline and has a strong track record against top-tier opponents. Players like Dzsenifer Marozsán and Alexandra Popp will be instrumental in Germany’s strategy to counter the USA’s attacking threats.

Having overcome Brazil with a convincing 2-0 victory in the quarterfinals, Germany enters the semifinal with confidence and determination to secure a place in the final.

Prediction

The USA vs. Germany clash is expected to be a closely contested battle, with both teams possessing the quality to emerge victorious. While the USA’s attacking flair gives them a slight edge, Germany’s disciplined approach could prove challenging. A narrow win for the USA is anticipated, with a potential scoreline of 2-1.

Credit: nbcsports.com

Alma Cooper Crowned New Miss USA 2024 Amidst Turbulent Year for Pageant Organization

Alma Cooper, representing Michigan, has been crowned Miss USA 2024. The 73rd annual ceremony took place amidst a backdrop of significant changes within the pageant organization, including the resignation of previous titleholders and the re-evaluation of its management practices.

Alma Cooper emerged victorious in the Miss USA pageant, held on Sunday, securing her place as the new face of the organization. Her win comes at a pivotal time, as the pageant undergoes introspection and restructuring. Cooper, a 22-year-old Afro-Latina, is not only a beauty queen but also a U.S. Army officer and a data scientist. She is currently pursuing a master’s degree at Stanford University, focusing her research on food insecurity—a cause she is deeply passionate about.

During the competition, Cooper’s eloquence and poise were evident during the Q&A segment, where she said, “As the daughter of a migrant worker, a proud Afro-Latina woman, and an officer in the United States Army, I am living the American dream.” Her words resonated with the judges and audience alike, earning her admiration and respect.

Cooper faced strong competition from fellow contestants. Miss Kentucky Connor Perry and Miss Oklahoma Danika Christopherson were named first and second runners-up, respectively. The competition highlighted the diverse talents and backgrounds of women from across the United States, each bringing unique perspectives to the stage.

Connor Perry, known for her advocacy work in mental health awareness, impressed the judges with her platform to support individuals struggling with mental health issues. Meanwhile, Danika Christopherson, a law student and community activist, spoke passionately about the importance of civic engagement and social justice.

The Miss USA organization has experienced a tumultuous year, marked by controversies and resignations that prompted a re-evaluation of its values and leadership. The departure of previous titleholders, such as former Miss USA Noelia Voigt and former Miss Teen USA UmaSofia Srivastava, highlighted internal challenges and the need for reform.

In September 2023, Noelia Voigt stepped down from her role, citing personal well-being and alignment with her values as the primary reasons. In an Instagram statement, Voigt expressed, “In life, I strongly value the importance of making decisions that feel best for my emotional health. I believe in standing by my convictions, even when it means making difficult choices.”

Similarly, UmaSofia Srivastava resigned from her title as Miss Teen USA, stating that her personal values no longer fully aligned with those of the organization. Her decision sparked discussions about the pressures faced by young women in high-profile roles and the importance of maintaining authenticity.

The controversies surrounding Miss USA have led to significant organizational changes. The pageant aired on the CW network, which announced it was “evaluating its relationship with both pageants.” This move signifies a broader reconsideration of the pageant’s direction and its commitment to inclusivity and diversity.

The pageant’s management has promised to address the concerns raised by former titleholders and contestants, ensuring a supportive and empowering environment for future participants. This commitment includes revisiting policies and practices to better reflect the values and aspirations of modern women.

As the newly crowned Miss USA, Alma Cooper aims to bring a fresh perspective to the role. Her diverse background and dedication to service offer a unique opportunity to reshape the narrative of Miss USA. Cooper intends to use her platform to advocate for issues she is passionate about, including supporting veterans, promoting diversity, and addressing food insecurity.

“I want to inspire young girls to dream big and pursue their goals relentlessly,” Cooper shared. “My journey has taught me the importance of perseverance and embracing one’s identity. I am honored to represent the United States and use this platform to drive positive change.”

Credit: usatoday.com

France Defeats Egypt 3-1 to Reach First Olympic Final in 40 Years, Will Face Spain

Hosts France will play in the Olympic men’s football final for the first time in 40 years after defeating Egypt 3-1 in extra time at the Lyon stadium on Monday. France will face Spain in the gold medal match.

France fought back after conceding their first goal in the tournament when Mahmoud Saber scored a stunning goal for Egypt, leveling the score after Jean-Philippe Mateta had given France an early lead.

Mateta secured a double before Michael Olise scored in extra time to earn Thierry Henry’s side the victory and extend their quest for a second Olympic title in Friday’s final at Parc des Princes against Spain, who earlier defeated Morocco 2-1.

“What a night! All credit to the players. Egypt was really good today, but we never stopped going after the win, and the fans pushed us forward,” Coach Henry said.

“We have secured a medal now, but we have one more step to go to win our first football gold medal after 40 years. Now Spain awaits us in the final, and it’s going to be a big game.”

Egypt, who were playing their third Olympic semi-final, had more shots on goal during the first half before Saber opened the scoring in the 62nd minute, capitalizing on a rebound to power in a second attempt.

France, who hit the woodwork three times throughout the match, equalized when Mateta finally found the net seven minutes from time, as Olise passed through Egypt’s defense.

Egypt went down to 10 men early in extra time when Omar Fayed received a second yellow card for a foul on Desire Doue, and they were dealt a further blow when Olise scored again to put France ahead with a towering header in the 99th minute.

“We put our hearts into these games,” Mateta said. “But I need one more night now with the boys and the fans; they kept chanting even after we went behind.”

UPDATED: Small Plane Narrowly Misses Golfer in Emergency Crash Landing

A small plane made an emergency crash landing at the Haggin Oaks Golf Complex in Sacramento, California, narrowly missing a golfer on the putting green. The incident, captured by security cameras, occurred on August 4 and could have resulted in a more serious outcome.

As the plane skidded across the ground, it smashed into the pro shop, barely missing a man standing outside. Miraculously, the pilot was the only person injured and sustained only minor injuries from the crash.

The frightening event unfolded as the plane lost control and descended onto the golf course, causing panic among those present. However, the quick response of emergency services helped to ensure that the situation was brought under control swiftly.

Local authorities responded promptly to the scene, securing the area and providing medical assistance to the pilot. Investigations are underway to determine the cause of the emergency landing and whether any mechanical failures contributed to the incident.

Golfers and staff at the complex expressed relief that the situation did not result in more severe injuries or damage. The Haggin Oaks Golf Complex management is reviewing safety protocols to prevent future occurrences.

US Personnel Injured in Suspected Rocket Attack on Airbase in Iraq

Several US personnel have been injured after a suspected rocket attack on an American military base in Iraq, according to US officials. The attack occurred as US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned that the Middle East was at a critical moment following the recent killings of senior leaders of Hamas and Hezbollah.

Officials informed BBC’s partner CBS News that the Al Asad Airbase, located in western Iraq, was targeted, and an assessment of the damage is ongoing. The identity of those responsible for the attack has not yet been disclosed.

Security sources reported to CBS that two Katyusha rockets were fired at the base, with at least one landing inside the facility. A Department of Defense spokesperson confirmed the incident, stating, “We can confirm that there was a suspected rocket attack today against US and Coalition forces at Al Asad Airbase, Iraq.”

“Initial indications are that several US personnel were injured. Base personnel are conducting a post-attack damage assessment,” the spokesperson added. The exact number of US personnel injured and the severity of their injuries remain unclear.

President Joe Biden has been briefed on the suspected attack, a White House official confirmed.

The attack comes amid heightened tensions following a US airstrike in Iraq last week, which was described as an act of self-defense against militants. Officials warned of potential retaliatory actions against US and coalition forces in the region.

These tensions have been escalating following the death of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, who was reportedly killed in Lebanon last Wednesday by a blast at his guesthouse. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) has accused Israel of killing Haniyeh, though Israel has not commented on his death.

Additionally, Israel recently killed a top Hezbollah commander in an airstrike on the outskirts of Beirut, Lebanon’s capital. Both Hamas and Hezbollah have vowed retaliation against Israel for the killings, further increasing the potential for conflict in the region.

The recent attack on Al Asad Airbase underscores the precarious security situation in the Middle East, where rising tensions between regional powers and militant groups threaten to destabilize the area further. The US military is on high alert as it assesses the implications of these developments.

bbc.com/cbs

Kenya’s Beatrice Chebet Wins 5,000m Gold as Faith Kipyegon Claims Silver at Paris 2024

Kenya’s Beatrice Chebet clinched the Olympic gold in the women’s 5,000 meters at the Paris 2024 Olympics after delivering a thrilling performance in a dramatic race that saw Faith Kipyegon initially disqualified but later reinstated to take silver.

The 24-year-old Chebet produced a spectacular finish, crossing the line in 14 minutes and 28.56 seconds, just ahead of her compatriot Kipyegon. The reigning world champion, Kipyegon, was briefly stripped of her silver medal for alleged obstruction during a clash with Ethiopia’s Gudaf Tsegay. However, Kipyegon was eventually reinstated in second place after a successful appeal by the Kenyan team to World Athletics.

The race added to a successful day for Kenya as Mary Moraa also took bronze in the women’s 800m final, where Ethiopia’s Tsige Duguma claimed silver behind Great Britain’s Keely Hodgkinson.

Chebet, the runner-up at the 2022 World Championships in Eugene and a bronze medalist in Budapest last year, was in fierce competition with Kipyegon throughout much of the 5,000m final.

Kipyegon moved to the front with four laps to go but then clashed with Tsegay, who took over the lead with just over two laps remaining. Despite the clash, Chebet maintained her composure and remained close behind Kipyegon, taking advantage of the final stretch to surge forward and secure the gold on the home straight.

Chebet beamed as she crossed the finish line, marking her country’s first gold medal of the Games at the Stade de France in the French capital. She celebrated her victory alongside Kipyegon, with the pair waving Kenyan flags amid wild cheers from the packed stadium.

There was a moment of confusion and controversy when Kipyegon’s name disappeared from the results list, initially marked as disqualified. However, a successful appeal led to her reinstatement, allowing her to join Chebet on the podium and celebrate Kenya’s triumph.

Kipyegon expressed relief and joy following the resolution, noting the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of challenges. The successful appeal ensured that Kenya could fully celebrate its athletes’ achievements in what was a memorable day at the Paris Games.

bbc.com

Delta Flight Turns Back Over Atlantic Due to Lightning Strike

A Delta flight was forced to turn around on a cross-Atlantic journey after “encountering lightning.” The flight, Delta 112, was on its way to Rome from Logan International Airport in Boston on Sunday evening when the crew reported that the plane had been struck by lightning shortly after departure, according to the Federal Aviation Administration.

The plane turned around over the Atlantic and headed back to Boston following the strike. The flight was intended to be an approximately seven-hour journey.

A Delta spokesperson told the New York Post that the plane was diverted back to Boston “out of an abundance of caution” following the strike. The plane landed in Boston around 7:20 p.m. local time and was met by fire trucks on the tarmac, according to WCVB.

Boston emergency medical staff confirmed that no passengers or crew were injured. “The flight landed safely and without further incident,” the Delta spokesperson said.

A passenger on the flight, Donna Pilat, told ABC News that she heard a “small pop” during the flight and described the plane having a rough landing on its return to Logan International Airport.

“We could smell burning rubber from the wheels,” she told the outlet. “They had to tow this plane to a hangar and that’s why we didn’t get our luggage for hours. Long night but it could have been worse.”

The Federal Aviation Administration noted that commercial jetliners are required by law to be built to withstand lightning strikes, ensuring the safety of passengers and crew during such incidents.

U.S. Fugitive “The Devil” Found Working as Mexican Police Officer After 20 Years on the Run

Antonio Riano, a U.S. fugitive nicknamed “The Devil” and once featured on “America’s Most Wanted,” has been apprehended in Mexico after nearly two decades on the run. The 62-year-old was found working as a local police officer in his hometown of Zapotitlan Palmas, in the Mexican state of Oaxaca.

The United States Marshals Service announced Riano’s arrest on Thursday, marking the end of a manhunt that began in 2004. Riano had been charged with the murder of 25-year-old Benjamin Becarra outside the Roundhouse Bar in Hamilton, Ohio. After the murder weapon was discovered in Riano’s bathroom, he fled the United States, allegedly to evade prosecution.

Riano’s notoriety grew when he was featured in a 2005 episode of Fox’s “America’s Most Wanted,” cementing his place on the Butler County Sheriff’s Office “Most Wanted” list. His capture was the result of a collaborative effort between the U.S. Marshals, the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, and local law enforcement partners in Mexico.

Following his arrest, Riano was swiftly extradited to the United States. He was flown from Mexico City to Cincinnati and then transported to the Butler County Jail. Riano now faces two counts of murder and one count of felonious assault, with his arraignment scheduled for Monday.

Butler County Prosecutor Michael T. Gmoser praised the cooperation between various agencies that led to Riano’s apprehension, highlighting the importance of international collaboration in bringing fugitives to justice. “This type of apprehension would not be possible without the cooperation and due diligence of both the Prosecutor’s Office investigators, the United States Marshal Service, and the United States Department of Justice,” Gmoser stated.

AP

U.S. Supreme Court Rejects Missouri’s Bid to Delay Trump’s Sentencing in Hush Money Case

The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday denied a request from the state of Missouri to halt Donald Trump’s upcoming sentencing for his conviction in New York on felony charges related to hush money payments. The decision came in response to Missouri’s lawsuit, which argued that the case against Trump infringed upon voters’ rights under the U.S. Constitution as he campaigns for the Republican presidential nomination ahead of the November 5 presidential election.

The Supreme Court’s order was issued without any accompanying opinions, but conservative Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito noted that they would have considered Missouri’s case but ultimately agreed not to grant further relief.

Trump was found guilty in May of falsifying business records to cover up a $130,000 payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels in exchange for her silence regarding an alleged affair with Trump years prior. Prosecutors argue that this payment was intended to bolster Trump’s chances in the 2016 presidential election, where he defeated Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton.

Trump, currently the leading Republican candidate for the upcoming election, denies having an affair with Daniels and has vowed to appeal his conviction after his sentencing, which is scheduled for September.

Missouri’s Republican Attorney General Andrew Bailey filed a lawsuit on July 3 against New York State, requesting that the Supreme Court postpone Trump’s impending sentencing and the gag order imposed by New York State Judge Juan Merchan.

Bailey’s lawsuit argued that the case against Trump violated the rights of Missouri voters by interfering with their ability to hear from and vote for their preferred candidate, citing the First Amendment. However, the Supreme Court declined to intervene, leaving the sentencing process to proceed as scheduled.

As legal proceedings continue, Trump and his legal team are preparing to challenge the conviction, which could have significant implications for his presidential campaign and legal standing.

Source: Reuters