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Lionel Messi and Argentina Prepare for Copa America Final Against Colombia at Hard Rock Stadium

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Lionel Messi and Argentina Prepare for Copa America Final Against Colombia at Hard Rock Stadium

Lionel Messi and the Argentine national team continued their rigorous training at Florida International University (FIU) on Friday, gearing up for the much-anticipated Copa America final against Colombia at Miami’s Hard Rock Stadium on Sunday.

Argentina’s Road to the Final

Argentina secured their place in the final with a commanding 2-0 victory over Canada on Tuesday, courtesy of goals from Julián Álvarez and Lionel Messi. This victory extends Argentina’s winning streak to 10 consecutive matches as they aim for a record 16th Copa America title. Following their triumphant 2022 World Cup campaign, Argentina is striving to achieve the rare feat of winning back-to-back Copa America titles, akin to Spain’s consecutive European Championships in 2008 and 2012, and the 2010 World Cup.

Colombia’s Journey

Colombia reached the final after a hard-fought 1-0 win against Uruguay on Wednesday night. Jefferson Lerma scored the crucial goal in the 39th minute, and despite being reduced to 10 men after Daniel Muñoz’s ejection during first-half stoppage time, Los Cafeteros held on to secure their spot in the final.

Emotional Support from James Rodríguez

Luis Díaz, filled with emotion, expressed his admiration for James Rodríguez, a pivotal player in Colombia’s journey to the Copa America final. “From the moment I arrived at the national team, I let him know that he has always been my idol,” said Liverpool winger Díaz. “I grew up watching him.”

James Rodríguez, who celebrated his 33rd birthday on Friday, remains a revered figure within the Colombian squad. Díaz, 27, was a teenager when James dazzled at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, winning the Golden Boot as the tournament’s top scorer and earning a transfer from Monaco to Real Madrid. Despite low expectations following a challenging season at Brazilian club Sao Paulo, Colombia’s coach Néstor Lorenzo placed his trust in James, who has emerged as arguably the best player of the tournament, leading his team into the final against defending champions Argentina.

Historic Final Ahead

This final marks Colombia’s first Copa America final since their victorious campaign as hosts in 2001. The clash at Miami Gardens, Florida, promises to be a thrilling encounter as both teams vie for continental supremacy.

Russian Sukhoi Superjet 100 Crashes Near Moscow, Killing Crew of Three

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Russian Sukhoi Superjet 100 Crashes Near Moscow, Killing Crew of Three

A Russian Sukhoi Superjet 100 passenger jet crashed near Moscow on Friday while flying without passengers, resulting in the deaths of all three crew members on board. The aircraft, owned by Gazprom avia, a subsidiary of the state-controlled natural gas giant Gazprom, plummeted into a forest near the village of Apraksino, approximately 90 kilometers southeast of the Russian capital.

The ill-fated flight originated from an aircraft-making plant in Lukhovitsy, where the plane had undergone repairs. It was en route to Moscow’s Vnukovo airport when it crashed just eight minutes after takeoff. While the cause of the crash remains unknown, some Russian media reports suggest that both engines may have failed, possibly due to bird strikes during takeoff.

In response to the incident, the Investigative Committee, Russia’s top state criminal investigation agency, has launched a probe into the crash. This latest accident adds to the troubled history of the Sukhoi Superjet 100, which has faced scrutiny over its safety record since entering service in 2011.

The SSJ100 has been involved in several high-profile incidents, including a crash in Indonesia in May 2012, killing all 45 aboard during a demonstration flight, and a fatal accident at Moscow’s Sheremetyevo airport in May 2019, resulting in 41 deaths after an emergency landing.

These incidents, coupled with ongoing maintenance issues and operational costs, have made many Russian carriers reluctant to adopt the aircraft. Furthermore, attempts to market the Superjet internationally have largely failed, with few foreign customers and those who did purchase the aircraft phasing them out of service.

This latest crash reignites concerns about the Superjet 100’s reliability and safety, potentially further damaging its reputation in the aviation industry. As investigations continue, the incident may prompt renewed scrutiny of Russian aviation safety standards and the future of domestic aircraft production in the country.

The loss of the crew members in this tragic event serves as a somber reminder of the risks inherent in aviation, even during non-passenger flights, and underscores the importance of rigorous safety protocols and thorough investigations following such incidents. As the aviation community awaits more details about this crash, questions about the future of the Sukhoi Superjet 100 program and its place in both domestic and international markets are likely to intensify.

Israeli Strike Targets Hamas’ Military Leaders, Kills at Least 71 in Southern Gaza

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Israeli Strike Targets Hamas’ Military Leaders, Kills at Least 71 in Southern Gaza

Israel has conducted a targeted strike against Hamas’ shadowy military commander in the southern Gaza Strip, resulting in the deaths of at least 71 people, according to local health officials. The strike, described as one of the deadliest in recent months, aimed at high-profile figures within Hamas, including Mohammed Deif and Rafa Salama.

Mohammed Deif, believed to be the chief architect of the October 7 attack that led to the deaths of approximately 1,200 individuals in southern Israel and ignited the Israel-Hamas war, was one of the primary targets. Deif, a long-time figure on Israel’s most-wanted list, has reportedly survived numerous assassination attempts. His potential elimination is seen as a strategic victory for Israel, particularly as it could disrupt ongoing cease-fire negotiations.

Hamas quickly refuted Israel’s claims. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), a Hamas spokesperson stated, “This is not the first time that the occupation has claimed to target Palestinian leaders, and their lies were later proven to be false.” Jihad Taha, another Hamas representative, criticized the assertion that Deif was targeted, labeling it a “baseless statement” intended to justify the strike and obscure the “crimes and massacres.”

The Gaza Health Ministry reported that 289 people were injured in the attack, with many of the wounded and deceased being transported to nearby Nasser Hospital. Associated Press correspondents on the ground observed over 40 bodies and described the aftermath as a scene of extensive destruction, with charred remains of tents and households.

The strike’s fallout has left blackened earth and heightened the humanitarian crisis as emergency workers and families searched for survivors. Displaced Palestinians, amidst the ruins, utilized carts to transport the injured.

The strike occurred inside the Israeli-designated safe zone stretching from Rafah to Khan Younis. This coastal strip is a critical area where hundreds of displaced Palestinians have sought refuge amidst ongoing conflict.

The Associated Press

Princess of Wales to Attend Wimbledon Men’s Final in Rare Public Appearance Since Cancer Diagnosis

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Princess of Wales to Attend Wimbledon Men’s Final in Rare Public Appearance Since Cancer Diagnosis

The Princess of Wales, Kate, is scheduled to attend the Wimbledon men’s final on Sunday, marking a significant public appearance since her cancer diagnosis earlier this year. Kensington Palace confirmed that Kate will be present in the Royal Box on Centre Court to watch the highly anticipated match between defending champion Carlos Alcaraz and Novak Djokovic.

This appearance underscores Kate’s ongoing commitment to her role as patron of the All England Club, a position she has held since 2016. Her duties traditionally include presenting the winner’s trophy after the men’s and women’s singles finals. However, due to health considerations, she will not attend Saturday’s women’s final between Jasmine Paolini and Barbora Krejcikova. Wimbledon organizers have announced that Deborah Jevans, the chair of the All-England Club, will present the trophy in her stead.

Kate’s presence at Wimbledon marks only her second public appearance since revealing her cancer diagnosis in March. Her first public engagement was at the birthday parade for King Charles III last month. Prior to that event, Kate released a statement indicating that she was “making good progress” in her treatment, while acknowledging that she still experienced “good days and bad days.”

While Kate will be in attendance, Prince William, her husband and heir to the throne, will not be joining her at the tennis final. Instead, he will be fulfilling his duties as president of the English Football Association by attending the European Championship final between England and Spain in Germany.

The royal family’s involvement in Wimbledon continues to be a tradition, with Queen Camilla, wife of King Charles III, having visited the tournament earlier in the week on Wednesday.

Kate’s appearance at such a high-profile event sends a positive message about her recovery and demonstrates the royal family’s ongoing support for one of Britain’s most prestigious sporting events. It also provides a moment of normalcy and continuity for the public, who have been following the Princess’s health journey with concern and support.

As the tennis world turns its attention to the men’s final, Kate’s presence adds an extra layer of significance to what promises to be an exciting conclusion to this year’s Wimbledon Championships.

AP

Novak Djokovic Overcomes Lorenzo Musetti to Set Up Wimbledon Final Rematch with Carlos Alcaraz

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Novak Djokovic Overcomes Lorenzo Musetti to Set Up Wimbledon Final Rematch with Carlos Alcaraz

Novak Djokovic outclassed Italian underdog Lorenzo Musetti to reach the Wimbledon final and set up a showdown with reigning champion Carlos Alcaraz in a repeat of last year’s final.

The 37-year-old impressed as he stayed on course for a record-equalling eighth men’s singles title at Wimbledon with a 6-4 7-6 (7-2) 6-4 victory on Centre Court. Djokovic showcased his resilience and skill throughout the match, maintaining composure under pressure and delivering crucial points when it mattered most.

Novak Djokovic

Musetti, 22, had one chance to get the break back in the final set but sent a forehand into the net and crouched down with his head in his hands, knowing the end was near. Djokovic made sure his opponent did not get another opportunity.

Under pressure, Musetti sent a shot long before Djokovic walked to the net, knowing he had reached his 37th Grand Slam final and 10th at Wimbledon. The Serb then moved his racquet over his shoulder and imitated playing a violin, in a gesture aimed at his six-year-old daughter Tara, with television cameras showing her grinning along.

Novak Djokovic

Some fans, however, started booing, thinking Djokovic, who produced the same celebration following his win over Holger Rune in the last 16, was being disrespectful. Despite the mixed reactions from the crowd, Djokovic remained focused on his goal.

Alcaraz beat Djokovic in last year’s showpiece, winning 1-6 7-6 (8-6) 6-1 3-6 6-4 in a five-set epic, which lasted four hours 42 minutes and is regarded as one of the best matches in the tournament’s history. The pair meet again on Sunday in what could be another amazing chapter in Wimbledon folklore.

Asked about Spaniard Alcaraz, Djokovic said: “He’s a great example of a player that has an all-around game, he has a great team around him, great values, a lot of charisma and carries himself superbly – that’s one of the reasons why he is so popular. He is one of the greatest 21-year-olds we’ve ever seen and we’re going to see a lot of him in the future, no doubt. He’s going to win many Grand Slams, but hopefully not in the next few weeks. He can do it when I retire.”

Reigning champion Carlos Alcaraz

Alcaraz, 21, the defending champion, added: “He already beat me here in a Wimbledon final. That’s already done so I don’t expect anything less than a huge battle. I’m prepared and ready for it.”

Djokovic’s journey to the final was marked by remarkable consistency and moments of brilliance. In the semi-finals, he demonstrated his ability to remain calm and collected under pressure, a hallmark of his illustrious career. Musetti’s challenge, though spirited, was ultimately no match for the Serbian’s experience and skill.

The upcoming final promises to be a thrilling encounter between two of the sport’s greatest talents. Djokovic’s pursuit of an eighth Wimbledon title and Alcaraz’s bid to defend his crown set the stage for a memorable showdown on Centre Court.

Source:bbc.com

England Striker Ollie Watkins Says Team Focused on Winning, Not Performance Metrics, We Just Want to Win

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England Striker Ollie Watkins Says Team Focused on Winning, Not Performance Metrics, We Just Want to Win

England striker Ollie Watkins has made it clear that the team is not concerned about their performances or goal-scoring tallies as long as they secure victories. This statement comes as the Three Lions prepare for the Euro 2024 final against Spain, despite criticisms over their lackluster run to the tournament’s climax.

The Three Lions have reached Sunday’s Euro 2024 final against Spain despite failing to set the tournament alight. Spain have netted 13 times with six victories in 90 or 120 minutes. This contrasts with England’s seven goals and three wins—excluding penalty shootouts—while playing against lower-ranked teams than Spain.

England’s boss Gareth Southgate and his players faced heavy criticism from fans due to an unconvincing run to the quarter-finals. However, a penalty shootout win over Switzerland followed by a 2-1 comeback victory over the Netherlands has shifted the national mood positively.

Watkins scored the 90th-minute winner in that semi-final victory over the Dutch, marking only his second substitute appearance of the tournament. Reflecting on his decisive goal, Watkins said, “I watched it quite a few times, when I got back to camp. I was manifesting it, as it has led up to it.” The Aston Villa frontman added, “A good friend said he felt like I would score in the Euros final, I did it a match before, but you never know, I might be saving another one for the final.

When asked about King Charles’ message to the team to win without any last-minute drama, Watkins stated, “As much as it makes it more exciting, I feel like personally we don’t care how we win or score, as long as the ball goes in the back of the net.” The 28-year-old emphasized that winning is the ultimate goal, irrespective of how the game unfolds.

Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold, who started England’s first two games in midfield but has since made only substitute appearances, echoed Watkins’ sentiments. “This far you have to be elite in every department, which we have been,” he said. “We have found our rhythm now within the team, on the pitch and in the games at a good time as well.”

Alexander-Arnold added, “As the saying goes, it is not how you start, it is how you finish. We are finishing this tournament well and hopefully, we go out even better on Sunday.”

England’s journey to the Euro 2024 final has been fraught with challenges and criticisms, but the team’s focus remains firmly on securing the trophy. Watkins’ and Alexander-Arnold’s comments reflect a squad determined to triumph, regardless of the means, as they prepare to face Spain in a highly anticipated final.

Source: bbc.com

Human Remains in Suitcases Found in London Linked to Bristol Body Parts Discovery, Police Search for Colombian Suspect

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Human Remains in Suitcases Found in London Linked to Bristol Body Parts Discovery, Police Search for Colombian Suspect

Human remains have been found in West London by police investigating the discovery of body parts in suitcases in Bristol. Officers believe the remains found on Friday in a flat on Scotts Road, Shepherd’s Bush, and those discovered two days ago at the Clifton Suspension Bridge belong to the same victims.

The Metropolitan Police have named the suspect they are searching for as Yostin Andres Mosquera, a 24-year-old Colombian national, and have warned the public not to approach him. Both victims are thought to have been known to Mr. Mosquera, but have not yet been formally identified.

Police say the remains in London are currently being “sensitively removed,” with post-mortems planned as soon as possible. This discovery comes after significant forensic efforts and cooperation between various police departments. The investigation began in Bristol when body parts were found in suitcases, leading authorities to trace connections back to London.

A cordon was established on Scotts Road, Shepherd’s Bush, on Friday afternoon. Officers and forensic investigators were observed entering a property at the junction with Devonport Road, while helicopters circled overhead to assist with the operation. The investigation scene has been meticulously examined for additional evidence that might link the London location to the Bristol discovery.

A 36-year-old man was arrested in connection with the investigation on Friday in Greenwich but has since been released without charge. His connection to the case remains under scrutiny, but police have shifted their primary focus to locating Mosquera.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Andy Valentine from the Metropolitan Police stated: “This is a fast-moving enquiry with detectives in London and Bristol actively pursuing a number of lines of enquiry. Locating Yostin Andres Mosquera, however, is the priority and I appeal to anyone with information on his whereabouts to get in touch.”

Mosquera was last seen traveling to Bristol from London on Wednesday. He was captured on CCTV taking a taxi to the Clifton Suspension Bridge, where the suitcases containing body parts were later discovered. The taxi’s registration plate was seized by police, and the driver is cooperating with the investigation.

Yostin Andres Mosquera is described as wearing a blue jacket, black jeans, black trainers, a gold chain, and carrying a beige baseball cap and a black backpack at the time he was last seen. His appearance has been widely circulated in hopes of garnering public assistance in locating him.

The local community in both London and Bristol has been advised to remain vigilant. Police are urging anyone with information to contact them immediately. The investigation continues to evolve, with efforts focused on piecing together the timeline of events and uncovering any potential accomplices.

Anyone with information is being asked to call the police on 101, quoting the Met reference CAD 1234/12JUL.

This case has highlighted the need for enhanced surveillance and community cooperation in tackling violent crimes. The Metropolitan Police are coordinating closely with other law enforcement agencies to ensure a thorough investigation.

Source: bbc.com

Former NBA Player Jontay Porter Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud Conspiracy in Betting Scheme

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Former NBA Player Jontay Porter Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud Conspiracy in Betting Scheme

Former NBA player Jontay Porter pleaded guilty Wednesday to wire fraud conspiracy and was released on a $250,000 bond, according to a spokesperson with the US Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York, in a case stemming from an alleged betting scheme, CNN reports.

“Estimated sentencing guidelines are 41-51 months, max sentence for wire fraud conspiracy is 20 years,” the spokesperson told CNN in an email. Porter’s bond was signed for by his wife and mother, the spokesperson said.

The spokesperson confirmed Porter’s guilty plea was connected to a gambling case in which four other people have also been implicated. A federal complaint filed last month against one of those individuals accused him of conspiring with three others to defraud a sports betting company by using inside information from an NBA player to successfully bet on the performance of that player.

That complaint referred to the player as “Player 1,” but CNN determined at the time that the player is Porter, who played for the Toronto Raptors before being banned from the NBA in April for violating the league’s gambling rules.

Jeff Jensen, an attorney for Porter, said, “I have nothing to add to my previous comments about the case.” Jensen has not previously responded to CNN’s requests for comment.

Porter is expected to be sentenced on December 18, according to the Eastern District of New York.

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65 Bodies Found in Gaza Neighborhood Amid Ongoing Conflict

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65 Bodies Found in Gaza Neighborhood Amid Ongoing Conflict

A civil defense worker in Gaza City tells CBS News that 65 bodies were found under the rubble in just one neighborhood of the Palestinian city, which has been decimated by the latest Israeli assault. Gaza City, the largest city in Gaza, has been significantly impacted since the war began following the October 7 terrorist attack on Israel by the territory’s Hamas rulers.

Israel’s military issued another evacuation order for everyone in Gaza City this week—the second since the conflict began.

Video from the Shejaiya neighborhood, where the bodies were found, shows utter obliteration.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said the operation, which was completed by the end of the week, targeted militants who had regrouped in Gaza City. The IDF previously claimed to have killed more than 150 terrorists in the area.

Residents returned to Shejaiya on Thursday to search for their belongings amid the rubble. Many appeared dazed or distraught by what they found.

CBS News’ Gaza producer Marwan al-Ghoul reported near-constant explosions thundering across the Palestinian territory from 11 p.m. Thursday night until 5 a.m. Friday.

Israeli negotiators, meanwhile, have returned from the latest round of cease-fire talks in Doha, Qatar this week. On Thursday night, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accused Hamas of “clinging to demands that endanger Israel’s security.

CBSNews.com

Brittany Mahomes and Patrick Mahomes Expecting Third Child

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Brittany Mahomes and Patrick Mahomes Expecting Third Child

Brittany Mahomes is pregnant!

The Kansas City Current co-owner, 28, announced in a joint Instagram Reels on Friday, July 12, that she and her Kansas City Chiefs quarterback husband Patrick Mahomes, 28, are expecting their third baby together.

The couple shared an adorable video of themselves with their daughter Sterling Skye, 3, and son Patrick “Bronze” Lavon Mahomes III, 18 months, having a photo shoot in all-white outfits, as they smile, laugh, and dance around with sonograms.

“Round three, here we come ????,” the soon-to-be parents of three captioned the Reel.

Patrick and Brittany began dating as teenagers when he was a sophomore and she was a junior at Whitehouse High School in Texas.

During a 2020 interview with Today, Patrick reflected on the early days of his relationship with Brittany, describing himself as “just a normal teenage kid showing up at the family dinner type stuff and being nervous and everything.”

Following his Super Bowl ring ceremony in September 2020, Patrick proposed to Brittany in front of a floral wall with a neon light that read “Will You Marry Me?”

Later that same month, the couple announced they were expecting their first child. Their daughter Sterling Skye was born in February 2021.

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