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Italian Football Legend Roberto Baggio Robbed at Gunpoint During Euro 2024 Match

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Retired Italian football star Roberto Baggio, 57, fell victim to a harrowing armed robbery at his villa near Vicenza while watching Italy’s Euro 2024 match against Spain. The incident occurred around 10 p.m. local time on Thursday, as at least five armed intruders broke into Baggio’s home.

Retired Italian football star Roberto Baggio, 57, fell victim to a harrowing armed robbery.

According to Italian media reports, Baggio confronted the robbers and was struck on the head with the butt of a gun, resulting in a wound that required stitches. The intruders then locked Baggio and his family in a room for approximately 40 minutes while they ransacked the house, stealing jewelry, watches, and cash.

Corriere dello Sport reported that Baggio engaged in a “very brief” scuffle with one of the robbers before being hit on the forehead, causing a “deep wound.” Despite being “very scared,” Baggio managed to break down the door of the room where his family was held and alert the police. Fortunately, none of his family members were harmed during the ordeal.

Roberto Baggio in 2015.

Known as ‘The Divine Ponytail’ during his illustrious career, Roberto is widely regarded as one of football’s all-time greats. He represented Italy 56 times, scoring 27 goals and starring in the 1990 and 1994 World Cups. His club career saw him play for top Serie A teams, including Fiorentina, Juventus, AC Milan, and Inter Milan.

Legendary Roberto Baggio donning the Italian number 10 jersey.

The robbery occurred as Spain secured a 1-0 victory over Italy in their Euro 2024 match, advancing to the knockout stages of the tournament in Germany. As investigations into the home invasion continue, the football community has rallied around Roberto, expressing shock at the incident and relief that he and his family escaped without serious injury.

Skynews.com

Kate Middleton Shares Touching Birthday Tribute to Prince William as He Turns 42

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The Princess of Wales, Kate Middleton, has shared a heartwarming tribute to her husband, Prince William, on his 42nd birthday. In a post on social media platform X, Kate wrote, “Happy Birthday Papa, we all love you so much! Cx”, accompanying a joyful family photo taken last month in Norfolk. The image shows William jumping in the air while holding hands with his three children – Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis – on a beach.

The Prince of Wales, who celebrates his 42nd birthday today, pictured with his children.

Buckingham Palace also marked the occasion by sharing a nostalgic black-and-white photograph of King Charles holding Prince William as a baby. The image, taken at Kensington Palace on February 1, 1983, was posted on the Royal Family’s official X account with the message: “Happy Birthday to The Prince of Wales!”

Princess William and Princess Catherine.

William’s birthday celebration comes after he attended England’s Euro 2024 match against Denmark in Frankfurt, Germany, where he was seen alongside Denmark’s King Frederik. The prince, who serves as president of the Football Association, watched as England drew 1-1 in their second match of the tournament.

William pictured alongside Denmark’s King Frederik at Euro 2024. Pic: PA

This birthday follows a challenging year for the royal family, with both the Princess of Wales and King Charles III diagnosed with cancer. Kate made a brief return to public duties at Trooping the Colour last weekend, appearing alongside William and their children. However, in a personal message to the nation, she revealed that while she is making good progress, she is “not out of the woods yet” and faces a few more months of chemotherapy treatment.

Prince William as a baby and King Charles .

As Prince William marks this milestone, the royal family’s resilience in the face of personal health challenges and public duties continues to be a focal point of public interest and support.

Bianca Censori’s Daring Paris Outfit Draws Attention During Dinner Date with Kanye West (PHOTOS)

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Bianca Censori, the 29-year-old wife of rapper Kanye West, made headlines with her latest fashion choice during a dinner date in Paris. The Australian architect-turned-muse was seen in an extremely revealing outfit that left little to the imagination as she made her way to meet West at the popular Gigi Paris restaurant.

Censori’s ensemble consisted of bandage-like halter suspenders that provided minimal coverage, paired with beige low-rise shorts made of tape-like strips. The outfit highlighted her figure and was complemented by matching beige open-toe heels with clear plastic straps.

Adding to her bold look, Censori debuted a new bubblegum pink hairstyle, which she first showcased at the PROTOTYPES Menswear spring/summer 2025 show earlier in the week. The messy, shoulder-length style has received mixed reactions on social media, with some critics drawing comparisons to looks previously worn by Kim Kardashian and Kylie Jenner.

This is not the first time Censori has pushed the boundaries of fashion in Paris. In February, she made waves by wearing an outfit that came close to violating local indecency laws.

While Kanye West was not seen with Censori as she arrived at the restaurant, the couple had been spotted together at the PROTOTYPES Menswear show. As usual, West contrasted his wife’s revealing outfit with a more conservative white sweatsuit and mesh mask.

The couple’s fashion choices continue to spark debate and draw attention, with Censori’s latest looks receiving both criticism and fascination from observers. As they navigate their public life together, it’s clear that their style choices will remain a topic of discussion in fashion and celebrity circles.

Dailymail.com

Argentina Dominates Canada 2-0 in Copa 2024 Opener, Messi Plays Provider

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Argentina kicked off their Copa 2024 campaign with a solid 2-0 victory against Canada, securing the top spot in Group A. Despite Lionel Messi’s inability to find the back of the net, his playmaking skills were instrumental in both goals.

Julian Alvarez broke the deadlock in the 48th minute, capitalizing on a collision between Alexis Mac Allister and Canadian goalkeeper Milan Borjan. The goal came after a tense first half where both teams struggled to create clear-cut chances.

Messi lost goal chances but gave the assist.

Messi came close to doubling Argentina’s lead in the 64th minute during a counterattack. His initial shot was saved by Borjan, and his follow-up attempt was heroically blocked by Derek Austin Cornelius’s head, denying the Argentine captain a well-deserved goal.

Julian Alvarez celebrates having the opening goal.

The game was sealed in the 87th minute when substitute Lautaro Martinez scored Argentina’s second. Messi’s incisive pass split the Canadian defense, allowing Martinez to place the ball beautifully past Borjan, securing the 2-0 victory.

Julian Alvarez celebrates.

Throughout the match, Messi showcased his brilliance in creating opportunities for his teammates, even as he struggled to convert chances himself. His vision and passing were crucial in breaking down a stubborn Canadian defense.

Lautaro Martinez dance of scoring the second goal.

This win puts Argentina in a strong position in Group A, demonstrating their title credentials early in the tournament. While Canada showed moments of promise, they were ultimately outclassed by the reigning World Cup champions.

As the tournament progresses, Argentina will look to build on this performance, with Messi aiming to add goals to his assists in the upcoming matches.

JJ Redick Takes Helm as Los Angeles Lakers’ New Head Coach

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In a surprising move, the Los Angeles Lakers have reportedly hired former NBA player JJ Redick as their next head coach. The news, broken by ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski, comes after an extensive interview process that included several high-profile candidates.

Redick, who had a successful 15-year NBA career, was chosen over other notable contenders such as Danny Hurley, James Borrego, and Sam Cassell. The Lakers also reportedly expressed interest in Kenny Atkinson, Mike Budenholzer, and Ty Lue before settling on Redick.

The decision has elicited mixed reactions from the basketball community. Matt Barnes, a longtime NBA veteran, praised Redick’s basketball acumen but expressed concern about the challenges of the high-pressure position. In contrast, Cleveland Cavaliers champion Channing Frye was more critical, describing the job as a potential “death sentence” for Redick.

Redick as an NBA player.

Redick’s playing career, which began as the 11th overall pick in the 2006 NBA Draft, saw him suit up for multiple teams including the Orlando Magic, Milwaukee Bucks, LA Clippers, Philadelphia 76ers, New Orleans Pelicans, and Dallas Mavericks. His transition from player to coach will be closely watched, as he takes on the task of restoring the Lakers to their former glory.

Redick as a basketball player.

As Redick begins to assemble his coaching staff, all eyes will be on how he navigates the expectations and pressures that come with leading one of the NBA’s most storied franchises. The basketball world eagerly awaits to see if Redick’s basketball IQ and experience as a player will translate to success in his new role as head coach of the Los Angeles Lakers.

TMZ

Raunchy Celebrity Basketball Tournament, “Nuttin But Azz” Canceled Amidst Community Backlash

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A celebrity basketball tournament planned for West Side High School in Newark, New Jersey, has been abruptly canceled following community outrage over its provocative theme and promotional material. The event, titled “Nuttin But Azz Celebrity Baddies Basketball,” was scheduled for July 21 but drew swift condemnation after a promotional video featuring scantily clad women in the school’s gymnasium circulated on social media.

Nancy Deering, spokesperson for Newark Public Schools, stated that the event was initially presented as a community basketball event sponsored by a local politician. However, she emphasized that no school or district official had approved or been aware of the risqué activities depicted in the promotional video.

The tournament’s organizer, celebrity music manager Big Fendi, issued a public apology to the school’s principal and the councilman who had initially supported the event. In his statement, Big Fendi took full responsibility for the controversial content, acknowledging that the promotional activities had gone “a little left and out of control” without the knowledge of school officials.

The canceled event, which promised a $10,000 prize to the winning team and charged admission fees ranging from $50 to $500, has raised questions about the vetting process for community events held in school facilities. Big Fendi also extended apologies to parents and students who may have been affected by the footage.

As of now, it remains unclear whether the tournament will be rescheduled at a different venue. The incident has sparked a broader discussion about the appropriateness of certain events in educational settings and the responsibility of organizers to align with community standards.

TMZ

Manhattan DA Dismisses Cases Against 31 Columbia University Hamilton Hall Protesters

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The Manhattan District Attorney’s Office has dropped charges against the majority of protesters arrested during the occupation of Columbia University’s Hamilton Hall last month. Of the 46 individuals charged with trespassing, 31 had their cases dismissed due to lack of evidence, while 14 others were offered conditional dismissals.

Columbia University student protesters.

The 31 cases dismissed involved students or staff at Columbia, Barnard, or Union Theological Seminary. For the 14 individuals offered conditional dismissals, mostly non-Columbia affiliated, their cases would be dropped if they avoid arrest for six months. However, these protesters rejected the offer and will return to court on July 25. One case remains active: James Carlson, unaffiliated with the university, faces additional charges including flag burning.

Students of Columbia University stand against Israel war in Gaza.

The Hamilton Hall occupation on April 30 was part of wider demonstrations against the Gaza war on U.S. college campuses. The DA’s office cited difficulty in proving cases due to covered surveillance cameras and masked protesters, highlighting the challenges in prosecuting campus protests when evidence is limited.

A Columbia official confirmed ongoing internal disciplinary proceedings for involved students. Some protesters rejected conditional dismissals to show support for others facing repression in the pro-Palestinian movement, underscoring the continuing tensions surrounding the Israel-Gaza conflict on university campuses.

Night scene of Columbia University student protest against Gaza war.

As this situation develops, it remains a focal point in the broader discussion of free speech, protest rights, and the role of universities in global political debates. The case dismissals and ongoing disciplinary actions at Columbia reflect the complex interplay between legal consequences and campus policies in addressing student demonstrations.

Soccer Legend Alan Shearer Slams England’s Euro 2024 Performance Against Denmark

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Former England striker Alan Shearer has delivered a scathing assessment of the Three Lions’ performance following their 1-1 draw with Denmark in their second Euro 2024 group stage match. Shearer, working as a co-commentator for the BBC, expressed concerns about the team’s lack of energy and creativity, particularly in attack.

The Three Lions are disappointed at the outcome of the game.

England’s promising start, courtesy of Harry Kane’s 18th-minute opener, was quickly overshadowed by Morten Hjulmand’s equalizer for Denmark. Shearer pointed out the visible fatigue among England players post-match, stating, “You can see players lying on their backs – they look absolutely shattered, the England players. There’s no excuse for that.”

The Newcastle legend criticized the team’s overall performance, highlighting issues such as:

  1. Lack of energy and pace in the game
  2. Failure to make runs behind the defense until late in the match
  3. Sloppy passing and possession loss
  4. Denmark appearing to be the superior team
Soccer legend Alan Shearer slays the Three Lions lack of performance.

Shearer offered tactical suggestions, emphasizing the need for more dynamic support around Harry Kane. He advocated for the inclusion of Anthony Gordon, praising his energy and ability to make runs behind defenses. The pundit also expressed concern about the underperformance of key players like Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden, and Bukayo Saka.

Denmark folded Foden all the game.

In a particularly pointed criticism, Shearer stated, “Gareth at the minute is not getting the best out of best players.” He highlighted how players like John Stones and Declan Rice, known for their progressive play at club level, seemed constrained in the England setup.

Harry Keane seen shocked at the draw against Denmark.

Former England defender Rio Ferdinand echoed Shearer’s sentiments, describing the performance as “lacklustre” and “tactically well below par.” Ferdinand questioned the defensive approach adopted by Southgate, arguing that England has too much attacking talent to rely on a conservative strategy.

England coach hands on face after game against Denmark ending in a draw.

As England prepares for their final group stage match, the criticism from these football legends puts additional pressure on Gareth Southgate to address tactical issues and maximize the potential of his star-studded squad. The team’s progression in Euro 2024 may well depend on how effectively these concerns are addressed in the coming days.

Copa America 2024 Opener: Messi, Argentina Favored in Clash with Canada

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The Copa America 2024 kicks off on Thursday with a highly anticipated Group A matchup between reigning World Cup champions Argentina and tournament debutants Canada at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Led by the incomparable Lionel Messi, Argentina enters the competition as heavy favorites, while Canada aims to make a statement in their first-ever Copa America appearance.

Betting Odds and Expert Analysis:

– Argentina: -360 favorites

– Canada: +1100 underdogs

– Draw: +470

– Over/under for total goals: 2.5

SportsLine soccer expert Brandt Sutton, known for his accurate predictions and deep understanding of the sport, has provided his insights for this opening match. Sutton’s impressive track record includes a 16-7 record in the 2022-23 Champions League season and being SportsLine’s top soccer expert in 2022.

Key Factors:

1. Argentina’s recent dominance, including their 2022 World Cup victory and unbeaten run in Copa America 2021

2. Lionel Messi’s exceptional form, with 12 goals and 10 assists in 12 matches for Inter Miami

3. Argentina’s experienced squad, with 20 of 26 players having at least 20 national team appearances

4. Canada’s preparation for hosting the 2026 World Cup and recent defensive improvements

Argentina’s firepower and experience make them clear favorites, but Canada’s defensive solidity in recent matches could make for an interesting contest. As the Copa America 2024 begins, all eyes will be on Messi and his star-studded Argentine team as they look to continue their dominance on the international stage.

For detailed picks and analysis, soccer enthusiasts and bettors are encouraged to check out Sutton’s full breakdown on SportsLine before the match kicks off at 8 p.m. ET.

CBSSports.com

Spain Showcases Brilliance in Narrow but Dominant 1-0 Win Against Italy

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Spain demonstrated their tournament-winning potential with a masterful 1-0 victory over Italy in Gelsenkirchen, dominating the match from start to finish. Despite the narrow scoreline, Luis de la Fuente’s side put on a football clinic that left spectators in awe.

The Spanish side’s elegant play and control of the game belied the single goal margin, which came courtesy of an unfortunate own goal by Italy’s Riccardo Calafiori. Spain could have easily scored five or six goals, such was their dominance on the night.

It was Spain all the way against Italy.

Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams were particularly impressive, tormenting the Italian defense on both flanks throughout the match. Their performances, along with the team’s overall display, have firmly established Spain as a force to be reckoned with in this tournament.

Celebration of the Spanish team.

In the closing stages, Ayoze Perez put on a spectacular individual performance, consistently outmaneuvering Giovanni Di Lorenzo on the left flank. Perez came close to adding a second goal late in the game, showcasing skills reminiscent of his prime years, but was denied by Italian goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma.

Lamine Yamal and Morata.

Italy’s attempts to salvage a point in the dying moments of the match, including sending Donnarumma up for a corner, proved fruitless against Spain’s resolute defense. The Azzurri rarely threatened throughout the evening, a testament to Spain’s control of the game.

Spanish team dominated the game against Italy.

This performance has silenced doubters who questioned Spain’s star power, proving that their collective brilliance and style of play make them genuine contenders for the Euro 2024 title. As the tournament progresses, Spain’s elegant and effective football will undoubtedly make them a team to watch.