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Opta Supercomputer Predicts Winner of Euro 2024: Spain vs. England in Berlin Showdown

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The Euro 2024 final is set, with Spain and England facing off at the Olympiastadion in Berlin on Sunday night after two thrilling semi-final encounters. As anticipation builds for this high-stakes match, predictions about the outcome are flooding in, with Opta’s supercomputer offering a fascinating forecast.

At the beginning of the tournament, England was picked out as the favorites to win, with Opta giving them a 19.9% chance of securing the title. Despite a somewhat stolid performance during the group stages, Gareth Southgate’s team has proven its mettle in the knockout rounds. Their resilient gameplay and tactical adaptability have validated the pre-competition predictions, demonstrating they possess the qualities needed for success.

Spain’s Journey to the Final

Spain, known as La Roja, has impressed fans and analysts alike with their fluid attacking style and robust defense. Their journey to the final has been marked by standout performances, particularly their come-from-behind victory against France, where they overcame the formidable Kylian Mbappe. Spain’s ability to maintain possession and create scoring opportunities has been a key factor in their success.

England’s Road to Berlin

England’s path to the final has been characterized by determination and strategic prowess. After securing their place in the knockout rounds, they faced tough challenges, including a dramatic win over Italy in the semi-finals, thanks to a memorable goal from substitute Ollie Watkins. England’s disciplined approach and depth in squad options have been crucial in their progress.

Opta Supercomputer’s Prediction

According to Opta’s supercomputer, the final will be closely contested, but England holds a slight edge. The prediction model factors in various performance metrics, including past results, player statistics, and tactical formations. While Spain’s tactical ingenuity and offensive capabilities are significant, England’s robust defense and strategic play give them a marginal advantage.

Key Factors and Player Insights

Spain: Key players like Sergio Busquets and Ferran Torres are expected to play pivotal roles. Spain’s ability to dominate possession and exploit defensive gaps will be crucial.

England: The performance of Harry Kane and Raheem Sterling will be vital. England’s defensive solidity and set-piece proficiency could be decisive factors in the match.

Expert Opinions

Football experts are divided on the prediction, noting that while statistical models provide valuable insights, the unpredictable nature of football means that anything can happen on the day. Tactical decisions by coaches Luis Enrique and Gareth Southgate, along with in-game adjustments, will play significant roles in determining the final outcome.

The Euro 2024 final promises to be an enthralling contest between two footballing giants. With Spain seeking to add a fourth Euro Championship title to their collection and England aiming to end a 58-year trophy drought, fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting the showdown in Berlin. While Opta’s supercomputer gives England a slight edge, the dynamic nature of football ensures that the match will be a must-watch event.

Source: 90min.com

Nine Bodies, including 8 Women, Discovered at Dumpsite in Nairobi’s Mukuru Slums, in Kenya Sparking Fears and Investigations

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In a disturbing development that has sent shockwaves through Nairobi’s Mukuru slums, in Kenya, nine human bodies were discovered at a local dumpsite on Friday, July 12. The grim find has sparked fears, raised questions about recent disappearances, and prompted an immediate police investigation.

The bodies retrieved from dumpsite in Kware, Nairobi county on July 12, 2024
Image: HANDOUT

The bodies, eight of which were identified as female, were found wrapped in sacks at a dumping site near Kware Police Station. Authorities reported that some of the bodies appeared fresh, while others showed signs of decomposition. Witnesses and police noted that several of the victims had burn marks, suggesting they may have been killed elsewhere before being dumped at the site.

Local youths made the initial discovery around midday, alerting authorities who then assisted in retrieving the bodies and transporting them to the mortuary for identification and autopsy. Nairobi police chief Adamson Bungei confirmed that an investigation into the apparent murders is underway.

Residents mill at the dumpsite where the bodies were retrieved from on July 12, 2024
Image: HANDOUT

The expansive nature of the dumpsite and the lingering odor have led to concerns that more bodies may be discovered as the investigation progresses. This fear has intensified the shock and unease among local residents.

This gruesome discovery comes amid growing concerns over recent disappearances following last month’s anti-tax protests across Kenya. Some individuals reported missing have been found deceased in mortuaries, while others remain unaccounted for, leaving families in distress.

Various government agencies are now involved in investigating both the dumpsite bodies and the broader issue of disappearances. The situation has raised questions about urban crime, public safety, and the potential connection to recent political unrest.

Kenyan President Ruto.

As the community grapples with this shocking event, authorities face the challenging task of identifying the victims, determining the cause and circumstances of their deaths, and investigating any possible links to broader patterns of violence or disappearances in the area.

This incident highlights the complex issues of urban crime, waste management, and social inequality that often intersect in Nairobi’s informal settlements. It also underscores the need for enhanced security measures and thorough investigations to ensure the safety of vulnerable communities.

As the investigation unfolds, residents of Mukuru and the wider Nairobi community await answers, hoping for justice for the victims and measures to prevent such horrific incidents in the future.

Prize Money Distribution for 2024 European Championship Final, See Who Gets What

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The 2024 European Championship final, set to take place at the Olympiastadion in Berlin, Germany on Sunday, July 14, will see England and Spain compete for the coveted title.

The tournament, which kicked off on June 14, has featured 51 matches, including 36 in the group stage and 15 in the knockout rounds.

In December 2023, the UEFA Executive Committee approved the prize money distribution system for the teams participating in the tournament. The prize pool for the 2024 European Championship is set at the same level as UEFA EURO 2020, totaling €331 million.

The distribution key for the prize money, as outlined on UEFA’s website, is structured as follows:

– Participating fee: €9.25 million

– Match bonus: €1.0 million for a win and €500,000 for a draw

– Qualification to the round of 16: €1.5 million

– Qualification to the quarter-finals: €2.5 million

– Qualification to the semi-finals: €4 million

– The runners-up will receive an additional payment of €5 million

– The 2024 European champions will receive an extra payment of €8 million

The champion team has the potential to earn a maximum of €28.25 million if they win all three of their group matches.

On Monday, UEFA disclosed that the tournament’s revenue is generated from media rights, global sponsorships, ticketing, hospitality, and licensing. This comprehensive revenue model ensures substantial financial rewards for the participating teams, reflecting the global popularity and commercial success of the European Championship.

Both England and Spain are set to compete fiercely not only for the prestigious title but also for the significant financial incentives associated with winning the championship. England hopes to end their 58-year trophy drought, while Spain aims to secure their fourth Euro Championship title.

Leadership.ng

Nigerian Afrobeats Star Rema to Perform “Calm Down” at Lavish Wedding of Asia’s Richest Man’s Son

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Nigerian Afrobeats star Divine Ikubor, popularly known as Rema, has arrived in India to perform at the wedding of Anant Ambani, the son of Asia’s richest man, Mukesh Ambani, and Radhika Merchant, daughter of pharma tycoons Viren and Shaila Merchant.

The ‘Calm Down’ crooner shared his excitement on Thursday by posting a video on Instagram of himself walking towards a private chartered plane, dressed in an all-black outfit. The video was set to the background music of ‘Azaman,’ a track from his recently released sophomore album, ‘He Is,’ and accompanied by an emoji of the Indian tricolor flag.

According to the Hindustan Times, Rema is commanding a fee of $3 million to perform his global hit song ‘Calm Down’ at the event. He is set to perform alongside Canadian singer Justin Bieber, who has reportedly been paid $10 million for his performance. Additionally, pop icon Rihanna graced the event with a performance for an undisclosed fee.

Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant are scheduled to tie the knot on Friday, July 12, at the Jio World Centre in Bandra Kurla Complex (BKC) in Mumbai. This grand wedding is the culmination of a series of lavish celebrations hosted by the Ambani family since March, marking yet another high-profile event in the Indian social calendar.

The four-day wedding extravaganza in Mumbai promises to be a star-studded affair, drawing celebrities from around the globe. It follows a series of pre-wedding festivities that have already seen appearances by numerous international stars.

Rema’s involvement in the wedding highlights the global appeal of Afrobeats and its rising prominence in international events. The Ambani family’s choice of such high-caliber performers underscores the opulence and grandeur associated with their celebrations.

Collapse of Two-Storey School Building in Plateau State, Nigeria Leaves Many Students and Teachers Feared Dead

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A two-storey school building in Plateau State, Nigeria has tragically collapsed, leaving numerous students and teachers trapped, with many feared dead. The devastating incident occurred at Saint Academy, located in the Busa Buji community within the Jos North Local Government Area, early Friday morning around 8:30 am. At the time of the collapse, many students and teachers were already in their classes.

The news of the building collapse has shocked the community. Distraught residents and anxious parents, whose children were inside the school, rushed to the site to ascertain the fate of their loved ones. The scene was filled with heart-wrenching cries and visible distress as they awaited news.

Our correspondent visited the school shortly after the incident. Many residents were seen wailing, while security personnel and emergency workers were tirelessly working to pull survivors from the rubble. The rescue operations were intense, with everyone hoping for miracles amidst the chaos.

The collapse of the Saint Academy building has raised concerns about the structural integrity of school buildings in the region. Authorities are expected to launch an investigation to determine the cause of the collapse and to prevent such tragedies in the future.

Source: Punchng

Niger’s Interior Ministry Issues Alert After Militants Escape High-Security Koutoukale Prison

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Niger’s interior ministry has announced that search units are on high alert following an escape of militants in jail from the high-security Koutoukale prison on Thursday, July 11. This prison is known for housing Islamist militants.

The ministry did not provide specific details on the number of prisoners who escaped or the methods they used to do so. Koutoukale prison is situated 50 kilometers northwest of Niamey, the capital of Niger. Notably, there were unsuccessful breakout attempts at this facility in 2016 and 2019.

Koutoukale prison holds detainees involved in Niger’s conflicts with armed groups linked to al-Qaida and the Islamic State, as well as suspected Boko Haram insurgents.

In response to the escape, local authorities have imposed an overnight curfew in Tillaberi, the urban commune in the same region as the prison. No further details have been provided at this time.

Niger and its neighboring countries in the central Sahel region are at the forefront of battling a growing jihadist threat. This threat has been escalating since 2012 when al-Qaida-linked fighters first seized parts of Mali.

The insurgencies have led to thousands of deaths and the displacement of over 3 million people, creating a severe humanitarian crisis in some of the world’s poorest countries.

Africannews.com

Major Drug Bust in South Africa: R5 Million Worth of Narcotics Seized, 45-Year-Old Suspect Arrested

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The police in Limpopo, South Africa, have arrested a 45-year-old suspect and seized narcotics with an estimated street value of R5 million. The operation, conducted on July 10, 2024, took place in the Lebowakgomo policing area outside Polokwane, showcasing the South African Police Service’s commitment to combating drug-related crimes.

Acting on a tip-off, members of the Provincial Flying Squad cornered the suspect near a major fast food outlet at a shopping centre in Lebowakgomo. The suspect, found sitting in a Toyota Hilux bakkie, was searched and initially found in possession of three sachets of crystal meth. Further investigation of the vehicle revealed 300 sachets of heroin (nyaope) and 80 sachets of cocaine hidden in various locations.

The operation extended to a raid on the suspect’s property in Maralaleng village, where additional drugs and over R30,000 in cash, believed to be proceeds from drug dealing, were discovered. The thorough investigation also led to the recovery of an illegal firearm with three live rounds of ammunition. The suspect’s vehicle was confiscated as part of the ongoing investigation.

Preliminary findings suggest that the suspect’s activities extended to selling drugs to school children across various educational institutions, adding a particularly troubling dimension to the case. It was also revealed that the suspect has a similar pending case before the Mankweng Regional Court.

Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, the Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Limpopo, praised the officers involved for their meticulous investigation and swift action. She emphasized the operation’s significance in the ongoing fight against drug-related crimes and the protection of children from drug traffickers.

The suspect is scheduled to appear before the Thabamoopo Magistrate’s Court on July 12, 2024, facing charges of possession and dealing in drugs, as well as unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition.

This successful operation underscores the importance of community cooperation in combating drug trafficking. The South African Police Service encourages citizens to report any information related to drug activities through the SAPS Crime Stop number or the MySAPS App, emphasizing that such reports can be made anonymously.

As law enforcement continues its efforts to eradicate drug-related crimes, this case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by communities and the critical role of both police action and public vigilance in addressing the pervasive issue of drug trafficking in South Africa.

Source: mdntvlive.com

JLo & Ben Affleck Publicly List Beverly Hills Mansion for $68 Million

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Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck have made headlines by publicly listing their extravagant Beverly Hills mansion for a staggering $68 million. This luxurious 38,000 square foot property boasts extensive improvements and renovations carried out over the past four months, making it one of the most desirable estates on the market.

Initially, JLo and Ben attempted to sell the mansion discreetly, opting for an off-market approach to attract potential buyers. However, these efforts did not yield the desired results, prompting the couple to go public with the sale of their grand estate.

The journey to acquiring this dream home was a long and meticulous one for the power couple. They spent over two years searching for the perfect residence before finally settling on this Beverly Hills mansion in 2023. The purchase price was just over $60 million, reflecting the property’s prime location and opulent features. Despite the significant investment, the couple decided to further enhance the mansion, pouring substantial funds into renovations to elevate its luxury.

However, the financial landscape of Los Angeles, including the city’s hefty mansion tax, has made it unlikely that JLo and Ben will make a significant profit from the sale. The renovations, combined with the tax implications, mean that recouping their investment might be a challenge.

Beyond the financial aspects, the couple’s personal life has also been under scrutiny. Reports of marital issues between Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck have been circulating for months. In May, it was revealed that the couple was no longer residing together, fueling speculation about the state of their relationship. While Jennifer has been enjoying a getaway in Italy with her friends, Ben has remained in Los Angeles. He is currently living in a rental home in Brentwood, further indicating a physical separation between the two.

The decision to list the mansion publicly may also be influenced by their current living arrangements and the desire to move forward amidst their reported marital struggles. The property is now represented by Santiago Arana of The Agency, a well-known real estate firm specializing in high-end properties.

The Beverly Hills mansion itself is a testament to luxury and opulence. It features multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, expansive living spaces, a state-of-the-art kitchen, and numerous amenities designed for comfort and entertainment. The outdoor area includes beautifully landscaped gardens, a large swimming pool, and various recreational facilities, making it an ideal retreat for relaxation and social gatherings.

The sale of this property marks a significant chapter in the lives of Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck. As the public watches closely, the outcome of this high-profile real estate transaction will undoubtedly be of great interest to fans and real estate enthusiasts alike.

Source:TMZ

Kim Kardashian Goes Braless in Sexy Dress as She and Sister Khloé Arrive in Mumbai for Indian Billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s Son’s Lavish Wedding

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Kim Kardashian captivated attention as she arrived in Mumbai without a bra, wearing an eye-catching sexy halter neck dress with an extremely low-cut design. She was joined by her sister, Khloé Kardashian, to attend the highly anticipated wedding of Indian billionaire Mukesh Ambani’s son, Anant Ambani. The 43-year-old reality star looked radiant and sun-kissed as she waved at onlookers, making a grand entrance ahead of the opulent celebrations.

Following her flight, the mother-of-four, who kept her eyes shielded under a pair of oversized black shades, opted to style her dark locks in a tight, sleek bun. Her younger sibling, 40-year-old Khloé Kardashian, adopted a more casual look, sporting a white crop top paired with light-wash blue jeans adorned with patches. Khloé completed her laid-back ensemble with two layered necklaces, stylish shades, and a large Hermès Birkin bag.

Anant Ambani and his bride-to-be, Radhika Merchant, daughter of a prominent pharmaceutical mogul, are set to tie the knot on Friday. The wedding festivities, renowned for their extravagance, have been in the spotlight for months.

Billionaire Mukesh Ambani, 67, is reported to have spent a staggering £100 million on the wedding, with a guest list featuring high-profile figures such as Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, Ivanka Trump, Bill Gates, and Hilary Clinton. Pop sensation Justin Bieber graced a pre-wedding party known as a ‘Sangeet’ with his performance, and sources indicate that Adele or Drake will entertain guests at the reception.

The immense amount spent by the Indian billionaire on this wedding is estimated to be less than half of the total cost, which reaches an eye-watering £250 million. The extravagant Mumbai affair commenced with a series of glittering events hosted by the Ambani family. In March, pre-wedding festivities in the western Indian town of Jamnagar extended over three days and were attended by numerous celebrities. Beyoncé was reportedly paid £5 million for a 90-minute appearance at one of these events.

As part of the preparations for this week’s celebrations, Mukesh Ambani, who has a net worth estimated at £90 billion, hired the luxury cruise liner Celebrity Ascent for 800 guests. This exclusive four-day Mediterranean cruise featured private performances from global superstars such as Katy Perry, Pitbull, and the Backstreet Boys. The ship, known for its opulence, includes 32 restaurants, bars, and lounges, a rooftop garden, an art gallery, multiple pools, and a full theatre, all of which were exclusively available to guests during the cruise.

Justin Bieber performed at the pre-wedding night

Security for this high-profile event has been extremely tight. A source told MailOnline, “It’s the most spectacular wedding that’s ever been held in India. They have so many VIPs coming and it’s been organized down to the last detail.”

The wedding of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant represents yet another monumental celebration by the Ambani family, who are renowned for their opulent lifestyle and grandiose events. The festivities are anticipated to set a new benchmark for luxury weddings, featuring international celebrities, high-end performances, and a myriad of lavish arrangements.

Daily MailOnline

Kenyan President William Ruto Dismisses Cabinet Ministers Amid Protests Over Taxation and Governance

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Kenyan President William Ruto took decisive action on Thursday, dismissing nearly all his Cabinet ministers in a bid to form a new government that promises to be lean, efficient, and responsive to the people. This significant reshuffle comes in the wake of prolonged protests against high taxes and poor governance.

In a televised address, President Ruto announced the dismissal of the attorney general along with the majority of his Cabinet ministers. He stated that the ministries will now be managed by their permanent secretaries until new appointments are made. Ruto emphasized that his decision was influenced by public sentiment and that he would establish a broad-based government after thorough consultations.

Kenya has experienced three weeks of intense unrest, starting on June 25, when protesters stormed the parliament following the passage of a finance bill proposing tax increases. The protests have resulted in over 30 deaths and have evolved into broader demands for President Ruto’s resignation.

Despite the sweeping dismissals, Ruto confirmed that Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, a crucial political ally, would retain his position. Ruto explained that the dismissals were part of “a holistic appraisal of the performance” of his Cabinet. He articulated his vision for the new government, which aims to “accelerate and expedite the necessary, urgent, and irreversible implementation of radical programs to deal with the burden of debt, raise domestic resources, expand job opportunities, eliminate wastage and unnecessary duplication of government agencies, and slay the dragon of corruption.”

Ruto, who appointed 21 Cabinet ministers after his election in 2022, faced criticism for selecting political cronies and deviating from traditional practices. Some of the dismissed ministers had been reinstated from previous elected positions, while others were perceived as being rewarded with Cabinet roles after losing elections.

The dismissals are seen as a significant move to address public discontent and bring about substantial governmental reforms. Critics and supporters alike are watching closely to see if these changes will lead to the promised improvements in governance and economic management.

The ongoing protests and political upheaval have disrupted the country, with key sectors such as agriculture facing challenges, particularly in the distribution of fertilizer amid rising prices and allegations of fund mismanagement.

President William Ruto’s decision to overhaul his Cabinet reflects his response to public outcry over taxation and governance issues. The new appointments and structural changes in the government are intended to address the nation’s pressing challenges and restore public trust.

The Associated Press

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