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Politics

Process for govt formation in Bihar has started: BJP MP Janardan Singh Sigriwal

Patna (Bihar) [India], November 17 (ANI): Following the NDA's landslide victory in the Bihar Assembly elections, BJP MP Janardan Singh Sigriwal said that the process of goverment formation has started and the people have voted for development.Speaking to reporters, Janardan Singh Sigriwal said, "The process for the government formation has begun, and the government will soon take form. People have given us a massive mandate, and we have to stand up to their expectations. People have voted on the development plank and trust... People have rejected the SIR issue..Earlier Union Minister and HAM(S) founder Jitan Ram Manjhi on Sunday met Union Minister and BJP Bihar election in-charge Dharmendra Pradhan in Delhi, while ruling out any talks on cabinet berths, asserting that Nitish Kumar will be the face for the Chief Minister's post.Bihar BJP in-charge Vinod Tawde was also present during the meeting.Earlier today, Manjhi had told ANI that his discussion with Pradhan would not involve any ministerial positions, "We will not discuss any ministerial position. I need to discuss certain issues with him. One thing is clear: Nitish Kumar will be the face for the Chief Minister's post."On cabinet representation, Manjhi added, "We have never pressured ourselves or our party to seek a cabinet post or department. We have remained patient with whatever responsibilities were given to us. Today, our legislative party meeting convened, and we made it clear that there is no need to request a ministerial position; we will be content with whatever is offered. In our 46 years in politics, we have never demanded any position."Manjhi also spoke about the swearing-in ceremony for the Bihar government, saying, "The ceremony will be held at Gandhi Maidan. Preparations are underway, but the date will be finalised once Prime Minister Narendra Modi confirms it. On Monday, the Chief Minister will hold the final cabinet meeting, give his vote of thanks, and submit his resignation to the Governor."Meanwhile, the ruling NDA got 202 seats, a three-fourths majority in the 243-member House. This is the second time the NDA has crossed the 200-mark in the assembly polls. In the 2010 polls, it had won 206 seats.Mahagathbandhan got just 35 seats with Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) winning 25 seats, Congress 6, Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) (Liberation) - CPI(ML)(L) - two, Indian Inclusive Party (IIP) - one and Communist Party of India (Marxist) - CPI(M) one seat.While All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) won five seats and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) got one seat. (ANI)

6 days ago

Politics

"It will be clear in next two to four days": Upendra Kushwaha on govt formation in Bihar

New Delhi [India], November 17 (ANI): Rashtriya Lok Morcha chief Upendra Kushwaha met with Union Minister and BJP Bihar election incharge Dharmendra Pradhan in the national capital on Sunday. He stated that all the details regarding the new government formation in Bihar would be clear in the next few days.Speaking to reporters in Patna before arriving in Delhi, he said, "The formality to form the new government will be done, and it will be clear in the next two to four days. I have conducted a meeting with our MLAs. Similarly, other parties will also conduct their own meeting. Then, based on that, further proceedings will be conducted. Nitish Kumar will remain the Chief Minister face".Earlier Union Minister and HAM(S) founder Jitan Ram Manjhi on Sunday met Dharmendra Pradhan in Delhi, while ruling out any talks on cabinet berths, asserting that Nitish Kumar will be the face for the Chief Minister's post.Bihar BJP in-charge Vinod Tawde was also present during the meeting.Manjhi told ANI that his discussion with Pradhan would not involve any ministerial positions, "We will not discuss any ministerial position. I need to discuss certain issues with him. One thing is clear: Nitish Kumar will be the face for the Chief Minister's post."On cabinet representation, Manjhi added, "We have never pressured ourselves or our party to seek a cabinet post or department. We have remained patient with whatever responsibilities were given to us. Today, our legislative party meeting convened, and we made it clear that there is no need to request a ministerial position; we will be content with whatever is offered. In our 46 years in politics, we have never demanded any position."Manjhi also spoke about the swearing-in ceremony for the Bihar government, saying, "The ceremony will be held at Gandhi Maidan. Preparations are underway, but the date will be finalised once Prime Minister Narendra Modi confirms it. On Monday, the Chief Minister will hold the final cabinet meeting, give his vote of thanks, and submit his resignation to the Governor."Meanwhile, the ruling NDA got 202 seats, a three-fourths majority in the 243-member House. This is the second time the NDA has crossed the 200-mark in the assembly polls. In the 2010 polls, it had won 206 seats.Mahagathbandhan got just 35 seats with Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) winning 25 seats, Congress 6, Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) (Liberation) - CPI(ML)(L) - two, Indian Inclusive Party (IIP) - one and Communist Party of India (Marxist) - CPI(M) one seat.While All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) won five seats, and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) got one seat. (ANI)

6 days ago

World

US-China rare earths deal expected by Thanksgiving, says Treasury Secretary Bessent

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said on Sunday that a rare earths agreement with China could be finalised “hopefully” by Thanksgiving. His remarks follow a framework deal announced last month under which Washington agreed not to impose full 100% tariffs on Chinese imports, while Beijing committed to delaying an export licensing regime on critical rare earth minerals and magnets. “I am confident that after our leaders met in Korea — President Trump and President Xi — China will uphold its commitments,” Bessent told Fox News’ Sunday Morning Futures program. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Bessent also denied a recent report in the Wall Street Journal suggesting that Chinese authorities planned to limit rare earths access for US firms with military connections. More from World Bangladesh: Ahead of court verdict, Hasina’s son warns of election obstruction if party ban stays Success, backlash and the Maga turn: Why Indian Americans are facing an unprecedented wave of hate The United States and China have reached a trade truce on rare earths, but Beijing retains a significant advantage, controlling roughly 70% of global mining and more than 90% of processing capacity, an edge that will be difficult for the Trump administration to overcome. The US faces no simple solution to reduce its reliance on Chinese production of minerals vital to national security, semiconductor manufacturing, and the shift from fossil fuels to renewable energy such as wind and solar. According to the US Geological Survey, the country imported 80% of the rare earths it consumed in 2024. For certain critical minerals, Chinese dominance is even more pronounced. Dysprosium, used in chip production, and samarium, essential for military applications, see Chinese refinement control reach up to 99%. Dysprosium and terbium are key components in magnets for electric vehicle motors and wind turbine generators, and they are also used in cellphones, high-intensity lighting, and nuclear reactors. Quick Reads View All Russia, US in active talks on Ukraine settlement, Alaska summit outcomes shared with Kiev, says Kremlin aide Zelenskyy says Ukraine working on prisoner swaps that could free 1,200 captives With inputs from agencies

6 days ago

Politics

"Is he even concerned that....?" NC MP Aga Ruhullah on Omar Abdullah's "political suicide" remark.

Budgam (Jammu and Kashmir) [India], November 17 (ANI): Responding to Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's "political suicide" remark, JK National Conference MP Aga Syed Ruhullah Mehdi on Sunday termed the fight "bigger" than becoming a member of the Legislative Assembly or being a part of th system.Speaking to reporters, the NC MP said, "... I am not worried about becoming an MLA... I already said that I do not wish to be a part of this assembly. This fight is not about becoming an MLA or an MP, or about gaining power. The fight is bigger than that... Is he even concerned that our political and social rights are being murdered?... He should uplift his thought process to the level he had displayed as a promise during the election while asking for votes."After the National Conference lost the Budgam assembly bypoll, Ruhullah, who is MP from Srinagar, posted on X, "Arrogance is the recipe for disaster. Consciousness, Humility and introspection is the way", taking a dig at Omar Abdullah.Replying to this, CM Abdullah told reporters on November 14, "If there had been no loss... see, I will just say this much--in English, there is a saying: "You cut your nose to spite your face." Ruhula, to send me a message... but politically, he hurt himself. He committed political suicide".The People's Democratic Party (PDP) clinched victory in the Budgam Assembly by-election on Friday, with party candidate Aga Syed Muntazir Mehdi winning by a margin of 4,478 votes after all 17 rounds of counting.Polling for the bye-elections in Budgam was held after Abdullah chose to retain the Ganderbal constituency and vacate Budgam, having won both seats in the 2024 assembly elections.The number of polling stations in the Budgam Assembly Constituency is 173, while the number in the Nagrota Assembly Constituency is 150.The National Conference had fielded Aga Mehmood, while the BJP had fielded Syed Mohsin in the constituency.A total of 20 candidates contested the byelections in Budgam. (ANI)

6 days ago

Politics

Trump has suggested he's made a decision on Venezuela military operations. Here's what we know

US President Donald Trump suggested he has made up his mind on a course of action in Venezuela following multiple high-level briefings last week and a mounting US show of force in the region. Officials briefed Trump last week on options for military operations inside Venezuela, four sources told CNN, as he weighs the risks and benefits of launching a scaled-up campaign to potentially oust President Nicolás Maduro. The US military, meanwhile, has amassed more than a dozen warships and 15,000 troops in the region as part of what the Pentagon branded "Operation Southern Spear." READ MORE: 'Traitor': Trump launches blistering attack on Marjorie Taylor Greene The president indicated Friday he was drawing closer to a path forward on his attempts to cut down on illegal flows of migrants and drugs – and the possibility of regime change. "I sort of have made up my mind – yeah. I mean, I can't tell you what it would be, but I sort of have," Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One when asked directly about those meetings and whether he had made a decision. What has Trump been briefed on? A small group, including Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Dan Caine, briefed the president on Wednesday. A larger national security team, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio and other top officials, met with Trump in the Situation Room on Thursday, according to a US official. Trump and his team reviewed target options during both meetings. Trump has been presented a wide range of options for Venezuela, including air strikes on military or government facilities and drug-trafficking routes, or a more direct attempt to take out Maduro. CNN previously reported that the president was considering plans to target cocaine production facilities and drug-trafficking routes inside Venezuela. READ MORE: Looming vote in the US marks crucial moment for Epstein files It's also possible he decides to forgo any action. Trump said last month he had authorised the CIA to operate in the country, but administration officials told lawmakers this month that the US didn't have a legal justification that would support attacks against any land targets – though it is possible they could generate one. Trump recently told CBS' 60 Minutes he was not considering strikes inside Venezuela, despite earlier sounding open to the idea. The president has, in meetings, seemed wary of ordering actions that could end in failure or put US troops at risk, according to people familiar with the matter. What assets are in the region? In recent weeks, the US has amassed its naval forces in the Caribbean as the Trump administration has launched at least 20 strikes on alleged drug-trafficking boats, an effort officials say is meant to disrupt the flow of drugs into the US. The world's largest aircraft carrier, the USS Gerald R Ford, arrived in the region last week and entered the Caribbean Sea on Sunday, the Navy announced. In addition to the aircraft carrier itself – described as the US Navy's "most lethal combat platform" – the US has amassed roughly 15,000 military personnel in the region, alongside more than a dozen warships, including a cruiser, destroyers, an air and missile defence command ship, amphibious assault vessels, and an attack submarine. READ MORE: Australia's beef industry welcomes Trump's sudden backflip It has also deployed 10 F-35 fighter jets to Puerto Rico, which has become a hub for the US military as part of the increased focus on the Caribbean. US Army Secretary Dan Driscoll said Sunday that the US military "would be ready, if asked" to take action in Venezuela. "The president and secretary of war have spent a lot of time thinking about what is the best thing they can do for the American people. And I can speak from the Army's perspective, which is, we have a lot of training in that part of the world," Driscoll said on CBS News' "Face the Nation." Experts describe the level of military buildup as significant. "I have been surprised by both the scale and the speed, and it is unprecedented," Eric Farnsworth, senior associate at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, told CNN. "It's the most significant build up this century. In fact, you have to go back to 1989, the US invasion of Panama, for anything remotely similar." Venezuela, in turn, has said it is launching a "massive mobilisation" of military personnel, weapons and equipment. Potential risks and rewards Regime change in Venezuela would require serious commitment by the US and carries high risk, but ousting Maduro could give Trump and his team credit for something that has proved elusive to multiple US administrations, including his own. During his first term in office, Trump officially recognised Venezuelan opposition leader Juan Guaidó as the country's legitimate leader, but a failed coup attempt in 2019 meant Guaidó never managed to take power. If Trump ousted Maduro, the US president could claim major wins: getting a strongman out and an elected leader in, the possibility of enhanced collaboration on flows of drugs and migration, and potential deals on oil. But experts have also warned that if Trump ordered strikes inside Venezuela aimed at ousting Maduro, the US president could face serious challenges with fractured opposition elements and a military poised for insurgency. In remarks from Caracas on Friday, Maduro warned that US military intervention could lay the groundwork for what he described as "another Gaza," a "new Afghanistan" or "Vietnam again." Offering a direct message to the US, he said, "Stop the insane hand of those who order bombing, killing and bringing war to South America, to the Caribbean. Stop the war. No to war." Extended US military involvement also runs the risk of upsetting the political coalition that propelled Trump into office on promises of keeping America out of overseas wars. Both Vice President JD Vance and Hegseth served in the military during the Iraq War and have since expressed scepticism about entangling the US in foreign conflicts. "The American people did not vote for Trump to draw the US into a sustained conflict in Latin America. On that basis securing Trump's commitment to long-lasting support for the opposition is likely to be a challenge," said a GOP congressional staffer. "And without that support, this won't work." DOWNLOAD THE 9NEWS APP: Stay across all the latest in breaking news, sport, politics and the weather via our news app and get notifications sent straight to your smartphone. Available on the Apple App Store and Google Play.

6 days ago

Sports

New York Jets cornerback Kris Boyd in critical but stable condition after shooting in Manhattan

New York Jets cornerback Kris Boyd was shot in Manhattan early on Sunday morning and is in a critical but stable condition. A spokesperson for the New York Police Department said emergency responders transported a 29-year-old male with a gunshot wound to the abdomen to Bellevue Hospital in "critical but stable" condition, declining to identify the victim by name. The police spokesperson said there have been no arrests and the investigation remains ongoing. The Jets said in a statement: "We are aware of the situation involving Kris Boyd and will have no further comment at this time." In a statement to Sky Sports News, a NFL spokesperson said: "We have been in contact with the club but will decline further comment." The Minnesota Vikings selected Boyd in the 2019 draft and he has also played for the Houston Texans and Arizona Cardinals. He was regarded as a special teams standout during his first six NFL seasons, including most of the last two with Houston. In March, he signed a one-year contract with the New York Jets and was expected to be a key part of a revamped special teams unit under new coach Aaron Glenn. But Boyd was hurt during training camp in August and placed on the season-ending injured reserve list with a shoulder injury that required surgery. Jets team-mates asked for prayers for Boyd in social media posts on Sunday afternoon. "Everybody please send prayers to my brother and teammate Kris Boyd and his family! Lord please hold your healing hand over Kris and guide him back to health and safety," linebacker Jermaine Johnson said in a post. "Lord, place your mighty hand on him as he fights lord God. Guide every doctor, nurse, and surgeon who touches him lord," defensive tackle Harrison Phillips said in a post. "Give his family strength! Kris is a fighter and we're all here for him."

6 days ago

World

Jaffar Express escapes bomb attack in Balochistan's Nasirabad: Officials

Nasirabad [Pakistan], November 16 (ANI): The Jaffar Express, which has faced repeated attacks in recent months, escaped a bomb blast in Balochistan's Nasirabad district on Sunday, citing police and railway officials, Dawn reported.According to police officials cited by Dawn, unidentified attackers planted an explosive device on the railway track in the Shaheed Abdul Aziz Bullo area to target the Peshawar-bound train travelling from Quetta and later detonated it.The train crossed the area safely, and no casualties were reported, the officials said.Nasirabad Senior Superintendent of Police Ghulam Sarwar told Dawn that police and security forces reached the site after the explosion, cordoned off the area and began an investigation."A search operation has also been launched to trace the elements involved in the bomb attack," he said.Separately, railway officials told Dawn that a portion of the track was damaged due to the blast, suspending railway traffic between Quetta and other parts of the country.The officials added that the Jaffar Express resumed its journey to Peshawar after reaching Jacobabad in Sindh.They said operations had only resumed on Sunday after a four-day suspension due to security concerns.Balochistan has witnessed increasing attacks targeting transport infrastructure, including multiple incidents involving the Jaffar Express since March 11, when Balochistan Liberation Army terrorists ambushed the Peshawar-bound train carrying 440 passengers. Inter-Services Public Relations Director General Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry said on March 12 that the clearance operation "was complete" and all 33 attackers "had been killed."The train has since been repeatedly targeted.On June 18, a remote-controlled explosive device derailed four bogies near Jacobabad, an attack reportedly claimed by the banned Baloch Republican Guards.On August 7 near Sibi, the train narrowly escaped another explosion.Three days later on August 10 in Mastung, "a bomb attached to the railway track exploded loudly, derailing six bogies of the train," Pakistan Railways' Quetta division public relations officer Muhammad Kashif told Dawn.On September 23, at least four passengers were injured when six bogies were derailed in Mastung.On October 7, seven people were injured in Sindh's Shikarpur district when "a blast had occurred on the train tracks.Later on October 29, the Jaffar Express escaped a rocket attack in the Notal area of Nasirabad district.Nasirabad SSP Ghulam Sarwar told Dawn, "Armed men fired four rockets from a distance to target the passenger train," but none hit the coaches. (ANI)

6 days ago

Politics

Maduro decries U.S.-Trinidad and Tobago military exercises as ‘irresponsible’

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Saturday (November 15, 2025) slammed new joint military exercises by the United States and its ally Trinidad and Tobago as "irresponsible," with Washington increasing its armed presence in the Caribbean. Caracas claims recent U.S. military activity in the region -- which Washington says is directed against drug gangs -- is really a ploy to overthrow leftist leader Maduro. This is the second joint training exercise carried out by the United States and Trinidad and Tobago in less than a month. In October, a U.S. guided missile destroyer docked at Trinidad for four days for another round of practice drills -- within firing range of Venezuela, whose government called it a "provocation." "The government of Trinidad and Tobago has once again announced irresponsible exercises, lending its waters off the coast of Sucre state for military exercises that are intended to be threatening to a republic like Venezuela, which does not allow itself to be threatened by anyone," Mr. Maduro said during an event in Caracas on Saturday. Mr. Maduro called on his supporters in the eastern states of the country to hold "a vigil and a permanent march in the streets" during the military maneuvers, scheduled for November 16-21. The United States has deployed warships, fighter jets and thousands of soldiers to Latin America in recent weeks and launched strikes on 21 alleged drug-smuggling boats, killing at least 80 people. No evidence provided by Washington Washington has provided no evidence those targeted were traffickers, and rights observer groups say the strikes are illegal regardless. On Tuesday, a U.S. aircraft carrier strike group also arrived in the region, prompting Caracas to announce a "massive" retaliatory deployment. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Thursday announced a military operation aimed at "narco-terrorists from our Hemisphere," but it was unclear how it might differ from the existing U.S. military deployment.

6 days ago

Politics

SIR Phase 2: More than 49 crore enumeration forms distributed in 9 states and 3 UTs, says EC - The Tribune

More than 49 crore of the nearly 51 crore electors in nine states and three union territories have received enumeration forms under the ongoing Special Intensive Revision of the voter list, the Election Commission said on Sunday.In its daily SIR bulletin, the poll authority said 49.73 crore enumeration forms have been distributed in the 12 states and Union Territories. In other words, 97.52 per cent of the 50.99 crore electors have received the partly filled forms.The states and Union Territories are Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Puducherry, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep.Among these, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala, and West Bengal will go to the polls in 2026. In Assam, where elections are also due in 2026, the revision of electoral rolls will be announced separately.Phase two of the SIR exercise began on November 4 with the enumeration stage and will continue till December 4.

6 days ago

Politics

Alleged leader of Ecuadorian drug trafficking gang Los Lobos arrested in Spain

Wilmer Geovanny Chavarría Barre, known as “Pipo,” the alleged leader of drug trafficking gang Los Lobos – Ecuador’s most powerful and violent criminal organization – has been arrested in Spain, Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa announced on Sunday. “Today we captured ‘Pipo’ Chavarría, the most wanted criminal in the region and top leader of Los Lobos,” President Noboa posted on his official X account. The announcement coincided with a national referendum in Ecuador, which includes proposals aimed at combating organized crime, such as the potential reintroduction of foreign military bases. Ecuador’s Minister of Defense, John Reimberg, stated that Chavarría was “responsible for at least 400 deaths,” and said the arrest was the result of a coordinated operation between Ecuador’s National Police and Spanish authorities. Chavarría is accused of orchestrating assassinations, controlling illegal mining operations, and trafficking narcotics in collaboration with Mexico’s Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG). Noboa said the gang leader had “faked his death, changed his identity, and hid in Europe while continuing to direct criminal operations in Ecuador.” Los Lobos - designated a foreign terrorist organization by the U.S. in September 2024 - has been linked to drug trafficking, illegal gold mining, and providing armed support to CJNG in securing key cocaine routes, particularly in the city of Guayaquil. The US Treasury Department sanctioned the group in June 2024, stating it had “thousands of members” and was a major driver of escalating violence across Ecuador. Authorities suspect Los Lobos of involvement in the assassination of presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio on August 9, 2023, in Quito. Chavarría’s arrest marks a major development in Ecuador’s ongoing fight against transnational organized crime.

6 days ago

Sports

Team India needs to end gambling on rank turners

The 30-run margin that South Africa beat India by in the first Test here may appear convincing on paper, but it was a match that was on the knife’s edge for long periods. The two days and two sessions the contest lasted were pregnant with possibilities and the cricket gripping. But a lingering question will be whether the game was a good advertisement for Test cricket. It was played on a spiteful track that took early turn and ended up disincentivising most batters. There is nothing illegitimate about a pitch that favours spin, just like how there should be no quibble about conditions that favour swing and seam. But an undercooked and underprepared strip which also carries inconsistent bounce like it did at the Eden Gardens helps no one and makes luck more of a factor than skill. India coach Gautam Gambhir said that mental toughness and temperament mattered more than skill, and South Africa coach Shukri Conrad stated that they expected India to dish out such a track. The Proteas skipper Temba Bavuma, who scored the lone half-century of the game, went a step further and said he would be richer for the experience. Gambhir also sought to point out that pacers took many wickets (16 of the 38) and thus it cannot be called a turning pitch. But facing Jasprit Bumrah and Marco Jansen with up-and-down bounce is a death-knell. Just ask Aiden Markram, who fell to a vicious delivery from Bumrah as early as the first morning. After Sunday’s play, Gambhir confirmed that the Kolkata strip was exactly what they had asked for. This now brings us to the next question — should India even be attempting to play on tough turning wickets that elevate the opposition spinners —like it did with Simon Harmer — and narrow the gap between sides? Whenever India loses such a Test, the popular refrain is that it got a taste of its own medicine. But there is a case to be made that it can no longer be called a medicine. It is India’s poison, its kryptonite. Indore 2023 versus Australia, Pune and Mumbai against New Zealand last year and Sunday’s crushing loss have all laid bare the fact that Indians are no longer good players of spin. India currently has an all-weather bowling attack, with worldclass pacers in Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj, and incredible spin-bowling depth in the likes of Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel and Washington Sundar. Surely they can fashion wins on pitches that don’t deteriorate from day one? There is a reason why the five-match India-England Test series this summer that Shubman Gill & Co. drew 2-2 will be long remembered — there was cricket on all 25 days, tracks were true and they tested the patience and perseverance of not just the batters but also the bowlers. A third not-so-good effect of having shortened Tests is that it short-changes the travelling fan, who has to spend more on cancelled bookings, both travel and accommodation. The insatiable hunger for cricket in India can camouflage this, but to what end? The World Test Championship massively incentivises a win, for it awards 12 points as compared to a draw (four points). But this has bred a winner-takes-all mentality which has in-turn upset the balance between bat and ball. It will be a pity if this eventually leads to spectator apathy, that too in a format that is already said to be on life support.

6 days ago

Business

EAM Jaishankar meets Qatar’s top leadership, discusses bilateral ties, global issues

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Sunday (November 16, 2025) met Qatar’s top leadership in Doha and discussed major aspects of the bilateral relationship, including energy and trade, as well as regional and global issues. He held a meeting with Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, and also called on Qatar’s Amir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani. “Pleased to meet Qatar’s Prime Minister & Foreign Minister @MBA_AlThani_ in Doha,” Mr. Jaishankar said in an X post. “Reviewed key aspects of our Strategic Partnership including energy, trade, investment and people to people connect. Appreciate the exchange of views on Middle East/West Asia, regional and global developments,” he said. According to the state-run Qatar News Agency, the two counterparts also discussed ways to strengthen bilateral cooperation. Mr. Jaishankar also called on Qatar’s Amir Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani and “reiterated our commitment to stronger India-Qatar relations”, the Minister said in a separate post on X. “Value his guidance on expanding collaboration and exploring new opportunities,” he said. India’s bilateral trade with Qatar in 2023-24 was $14.08 billion, according to the Ministry of External Affairs.

6 days ago

Sports

NFL Week 11 Live Score, Updates: Bears-Vikings, Packers-Giants, Bucs-Bills, More

National Football League National Football League NFL Week 11 Live Score, Updates: Bears-Vikings, Packers-Giants, Bucs-Bills, More Updated: Nov 16, 2025 - 11:53 AM ET sharefacebookxredditlink Hopefully you're locked in and ready for some NFL football this Sunday, because we might have a pair of playoff previews in store. Kicking things off in the early window, we've got a handful of intriguing matchups around the league. The Vikings host the Bears in a key NFC North battle, while the Buccaneers and Bills are looking to shake off Week 10 losses. Elsewhere, the Giants host the Packers on FOX, and the Chargers face the Jaguars on the road. Later, the Seahawks and the Rams meet up in Los Angeles as the two NFC West squads battle for first place in the division (4:05 p.m. ET on FOX and the FOX Sports app). Both Seattle and Los Angeles have been among the league's hottest teams as of late, with many power rankings featuring the two squads as top-three teams in the league. There's also a potential playoff preview between a pair of AFC West teams, as the Broncos host the Chiefs during the late afternoon slate, with Sunday likely serving as a game that will determine the division race. Here are all the highlights from Sunday's games! 2 posts Sort By NewestSort By NewestSort By Oldest 11:36a ET Live scoreboards 11:53a ET All eyes on Madrid! Live Coverage for this began on 11:53a ET share recommended Super Bowl 2026 Odds: Chiefs, Rams Favored; Bills Tumble Down Board QB Stock Market Week 11: How is Matthew Stafford Better Than Ever at 37? NFL Coaching Hot Seat Rankings: With Brian Daboll Out, Who's Next? 2025 NFL Honors Watch: Jonathan Taylor in OPOY Lead, but What About DPOY? Lane Kiffin-Jaxson Dart Reunion? 11 Candidates to Be the Giants' Next Head Coach New York Giants Next Head Coach Odds: Mike McCarthy Favored Rob Gronkowski to Sign 1-Day Contract with New England, Be 'a Patriot for Life' 2025 NFL Week 11 Buzz: Pats Standout DT Out Weeks; Broncos Lose Starting RB 4 Takeaways From the Eagles’ Win Over the Packers on Monday Night Football Item 1 of 3 Get more from the National Football League Follow your favorites to get information about games, news and more in this topic National Football League NFL - Houston Texans vs. Tennessee Titans - 11/16/2025 NFL - Chicago Bears vs. Minnesota Vikings - 11/16/2025 NFL - Carolina Panthers vs. Atlanta Falcons - 11/16/2025 NFL - San Francisco 49ers vs. Arizona Cardinals - 11/16/2025 NFL - Green Bay Packers vs. New York Giants - 11/16/2025 NFL - Los Angeles Chargers vs. Jacksonville Jaguars - 11/16/2025 NFL - Cincinnati Bengals vs. Pittsburgh Steelers - 11/16/2025 NFL - Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Buffalo Bills - 11/16/2025 NFL - Seattle Seahawks vs. Los Angeles Rams - 11/16/2025 NFL - Kansas City Chiefs vs. Denver Broncos - 11/16/2025 NFL - Baltimore Ravens vs. Cleveland Browns - 11/16/2025 NFL - Washington Commanders vs. Miami Dolphins - 11/16/2025 Houston Texans Tennessee Titans Chicago Bears Minnesota Vikings San Francisco 49ers Arizona Cardinals Washington Commanders Miami Dolphins Baltimore Ravens Cleveland Browns Kansas City Chiefs Denver Broncos Seattle Seahawks Tampa Bay Buccaneers Cincinnati Bengals Los Angeles Rams Carolina Panthers Atlanta Falcons Green Bay Packers New York Giants Los Angeles Chargers Jacksonville Jaguars Pittsburgh Steelers Buffalo Bills NEXT STORY 2025 NFL Power Rankings Week 11: The NFC is Much Better Than the AFC recommended Super Bowl 2026 Odds: Chiefs, Rams Favored; Bills Tumble Down Board QB Stock Market Week 11: How is Matthew Stafford Better Than Ever at 37? NFL Coaching Hot Seat Rankings: With Brian Daboll Out, Who's Next? 2025 NFL Honors Watch: Jonathan Taylor in OPOY Lead, but What About DPOY? Lane Kiffin-Jaxson Dart Reunion? 11 Candidates to Be the Giants' Next Head Coach New York Giants Next Head Coach Odds: Mike McCarthy Favored Rob Gronkowski to Sign 1-Day Contract with New England, Be 'a Patriot for Life' 2025 NFL Week 11 Buzz: Pats Standout DT Out Weeks; Broncos Lose Starting RB 4 Takeaways From the Eagles’ Win Over the Packers on Monday Night Football Item 1 of 3

6 days ago

Technology

New genetic tool reveals chromosome changes linked to pregnancy loss: Study - The Tribune

Maryland [US], November 16 (ANI): Pregnancy loss affects up to 25 per cent of all pregnancies, with most miscarriages occurring in the first trimester and roughly half caused by genetic or chromosomal abnormalities. But when pregnancy loss occurs three or more times, identifying the underlying cause becomes significantly more challenging, and often remains unknown.Now, two new studies presented at the Association for Molecular Pathology (AMP) 2025 Annual Meeting & Expo in Boston suggest that a cutting-edge technology known as optical genome mapping (OGM) may uncover genetic factors missed by traditional methods, offering new hope for families seeking answers.Researchers at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center investigated whether OGM could detect harmful chromosomal changes in patients with a family history or risk of recurrent pregnancy loss who had previously undergone traditional genetic testing, such as karyotyping or chromosomal microarray analysis, allowing direct comparison between methods.On average, researchers found about 40 structural changes in the genome after carefully reviewing the data. The study focused on 238 genes known to be linked to recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL). In two cases, four important RPL-related genes that also play a role in infertility were directly affected by these structural changes. Another case showed a hidden chromosome rearrangement that disrupted other genes not tied to RPL. These results show that optical genome mapping (OGM) can reveal genetic changes that standard tests often miss.The authors say that, used alongside standard genetic tests, OGM can enhance the diagnostic evaluation of recurrent pregnancy loss, helping clinicians better understand potential genetic causes.This work was led by Debopriya Chakraborty, Ph.D., a clinical postdoctoral fellow at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center and overseen by Wahab A. Khan, PhD, FACMG and colleagues in the Clinical Genomics and Advanced Technology section at DHMC. Certain parts of human chromosomes, known as fragile sites, are more susceptible to developing breaks, gaps, or constrictions, particularly when DNA is under stress during replication or repair. While fragile sites are known to contribute to genomic instability, their connection to recurrent pregnancy loss is not well studied.Researchers at Queens University's Kingston Health Sciences Centre and the University of Ottawa investigated the connection between fragile sites and recurrent pregnancy loss. A 33-year-old patient was referred to them after three consecutive early pregnancy losses. Traditional chromosome testing found breaks at the rare fragile site FRA16B in about one-third of her cells. Using optical genome mapping (OGM), they discovered that the repeated DNA segment at FRA16B was huge, confirming instability that may be linked to pregnancy loss.Fragile sites such as FRA16B may be underappreciated contributors to reproductive issues, and incorporating OGM could help identify previously missed causes. Combining traditional cytogenetic testing (such as karyotyping) with OGM provides a clearer, more precise understanding of fragile sites. (ANI) (This content is sourced from a syndicated feed and is published as received. The Tribune assumes no responsibility or liability for its accuracy, completeness, or content.)

6 days ago

Health

Hypertension affects brain much earlier than expected: Study - The Tribune

New York City [US], November 16 (ANI): Hypertension may impair the brain far earlier than previously understood -- even before a measurable rise in blood pressure occurs -- according to a new preclinical study from Weill Cornell Medicine. The changes help explain why hypertension is a major risk factor for developing cognitive disorders, such as vascular cognitive impairment and Alzheimer's disease.The study reveals that hypertension triggers early gene expression changes in individual brain cells, which may interfere with cognitive functions such as thinking and memory. The findings may lead to medications that both reduce blood pressure and prevent cognitive decline.Patients with hypertension have a 1.2 to 1.5-fold higher risk of developing cognitive disorders than people without the condition, but exactly why is not understood. While many current hypertension medications successfully lower high blood pressure, they often show little or no effect on brain function. This suggests blood vessel changes could cause damage independently of the elevated pressure associated with hypertension."We found that the major cells responsible for cognitive impairment were affected just three days after inducing hypertension in mice--before blood pressure increased," said senior author Dr. Costantino Iadecola, director of the Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute, professor of neuroscience and Anne Parrish Titzell Professor of Neurology at Weill Cornell. "The bottom line is something beyond the dysregulation of blood pressure is involved."Dr. Anthony Pacholko, postdoctoral associate in neuroscience at Weill Cornell, co-led the work.In previous work, Dr. Iadecola's team found that hypertension affects the function of neurons globally, but recent innovations in single-cell technologies have allowed them to zero in on what is happening in the different types of cells in the brain at the molecular level.To induce hypertension in mice, the researchers administered the hormone angiotensin, which raises blood pressure, thereby mimicking the condition in humans. Then, they examined how different types of brain cells were affected three days later (before blood pressure increased) and after 42 days (when blood pressure was high and cognition was impaired).At day three, gene expression dramatically changed in three cell types: endothelial cells, interneurons and oligodendrocytes. Endothelial cells, which line the internal surface of blood vessels, aged prematurely with lower energy metabolism and higher senescence markers. The researchers also observed early signs of a weakened blood-brain barrier, which regulates the influx of nutrients into the brain and keeps out harmful molecules. Interneurons, brain cells that regulate the balance of excitatory and inhibitory nerve signals, were damaged, leading to an imbalance between inhibition and excitation like that seen in Alzheimer's disease.In addition, oligodendrocytes that enrobe nerve fibers with myelin did not properly express genes responsible for their maintenance and replacement. Without enough oligodendrocytes to maintain the health of the myelin sheath, neurons eventually lose the ability to communicate with each other, which is critical for cognitive function. Even more gene expression changes were observed at day 42, coinciding with cognitive decline."The extent of the early alterations induced by hypertension was quite surprising," Dr. Pacholko said. "Understanding how hypertension affects the brain at the cellular and molecular levels during the earliest stages of the disease may provide clues to finding ways that can potentially block neurodegeneration."An anti-hypertensive drug already in clinical use called losartan inhibits the angiotensin receptor. "In some human studies, the data suggest that the angiotensin receptor inhibitors may be more beneficial to cognitive health than other drugs that lower blood pressure," Dr. Iadecola said. In additional experiments, losartan reversed the early effects of hypertension on endothelial cells and interneurons in the mouse model."Hypertension is a leading cause of damage to the heart and the kidneys, that can be prevented by antihypertensive drugs. So independent of cognitive function, treating high blood pressure is a priority," Dr. Iadecola said. (ANI) (This content is sourced from a syndicated feed and is published as received. The Tribune assumes no responsibility or liability for its accuracy, completeness, or content.)

6 days ago

Politics

Rohini Acharya's emotional 'daughter' remark gets Chirag Paswan's 'rights' backing

Seeking to stay beyond the escalating storm inside the Lalu Prasad Yadav household, LJP (Ram Vilas) chief Chirag Paswan on Sunday backed Rohini Acharya’s emotional assertion of a daughter’s rights, even as he avoided commenting directly on her allegations and urged the Yadav family to settle the matter quickly.Paswan said he understood the emotional rupture Rohini described, adding that women should not be made to feel their parental home no longer belongs to them after marriage. “I do not believe that after marriage, the in-laws’ home is the only home for a daughter. I do not support this orthodox thinking,” he said, stressing that he could “understand the pain” in Rohini’s words. “I will not make comments on the family issue, but I pray this dispute is resolved soon. I have also gone through such situations.”Despite political differences, Paswan reiterated his personal warmth towards Lalu Prasad’s children. “We might have had political differences, but I have always considered Lalu ji’s family my own. Be it Tejashwi, Tej, Misa or Rohini, I have considered them my siblings,” he said, adding that unity within a family empowers individuals in public life. “I pray that this family dispute is resolved at the earliest.” His remarks came a day after Rohini Acharya announced she was quitting politics and publicly accused members of her own family of humiliation, abuse and threats, comments that have triggered a political storm just days after the RJD’s heavy electoral defeat, where it won only 25 seats in the 243-member Assembly..preferred-source-banner{ margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom:10px;}ROHINI’S ALLEGATIONS JOLT BIHAR POLITICSIn an emotionally charged post on X, Rohini wrote that she was insulted, verbally abused and even threatened with a slipper. She said she left her parental home in helplessness. “Yesterday, a daughter, a sister, a married woman, a mother was humiliated shoes were raised to kill her I didn’t compromise on my self-respect,” she wrote.Speaking to the media before leaving for Mumbai, Rohini said she stood by every word she posted online. She squarely blamed Tejashwi Yadav, Sanjay Yadav, Rachel Yadav and Rameez for her ordeal, insisting that her parents and sisters supported her. “My mother-in-law is extremely worried I am going to Mumbai,” she added.There has been no response from the RJD or Yadav family members so far.POLITICAL REACTIONSJDU leader Ashok Chaudhary termed the matter “unfortunate” and said it was inappropriate to politicise family issues. UP minister Danish Azad Ansari used the episode to attack the RJD and the Opposition, saying the Bihar verdict reflected public rejection of “nepotism”.Rohini’s uncle, Sadhu Yadav, said her claims should be investigated.He defended her right to protest against “outsiders” living in the family home and argued that the person responsible should have been asked to leave, not Rohini.INTERNAL FEUD SPILLS FURTHERAmid the unfolding turmoil, Lalu Prasad Yadav’s daughters Rajlakshmi, Ragini and Chanda also left the 10 Circular Road residence and headed to Delhi with their children. Only Lalu Prasad, Rabri Devi and Misa Bharti remain at the Patna home.According to family insiders, the rupture began after the RJD’s poll debacle. Lalu and Rabri were reportedly upset with Tejashwi’s core team. A heated argument broke out on 15 November between Tejashwi and Rohini after she blamed Sanjay Yadav and his associates for the party’s defeat. The dispute allegedly escalated to the point where footwear was raised before Misa Bharti intervened.TEJ PRATAP’S INTERVENTIONIn his first reaction, Tej Pratap Yadav issued a strongly worded message on social media, calling Rohini’s humiliation “unbearable”. In an emotional appeal to his father, he said, “Give me a signal one nod, and the people of Bihar will bury these Jaichands. This fight is about the honour of a daughter and the self-respect of Bihar.”- EndsPublished By: Sonali VermaPublished On: Nov 16, 2025Must Watch

6 days ago

World

735 grams of opium recovered from parcel in Ludhiana - The Tribune

A parcel meant for an international destination, which had been booked from Punjab, was intercepted by officials in Ludhiana, following which 735 grams of opium were recovered from four packets.Officials from the Directorate of Revenue Intelligence, while acting on a specific input, recovered the contraband.According to an official statement on Sunday, acting on specific intelligence that a particular parcel booked from Ferozpur, Punjab, and destined to California, US, would be carrying concealed contraband in violation of the Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1985, the officers of the DRI, Ludhiana Zonal Unit intercepted the parcel at Dhandari Kalan, Ludhiana.A thorough examination of the parcel resulted in the recovery of four packets, each individually wrapped with carbon paper and further taped with transparent tape, containing opium.These packets were found concealed in a quilt in which a small opening was made to hide the packets. The smugglers had attempted to smuggle the contraband under the garb of household and food items, the statement said.The recovered four packets, containing 735 grams of opium, have been seized under the provisions of the NDPS Act, 1985.Further investigation is underway.

6 days ago

Politics

MP minister calls Raja Ram Mohan Roy a British agent, apologises amid flak - The Tribune

Madhya Pradesh Minister and BJP leader Inder Singh Parmar has sparked controversy by saying that social reformer Raja Ram Mohan Roy was a "British agent" who started a "vicious cycle of religious conversion", prompting the TMC to call the remarks an insult to Bengal.After facing widespread flak, the MP Higher Education Minister apologised on Sunday, claiming his remark was a "slip of the tongue".The row erupted at a time when the BJP, after winning the Bihar elections, has set its eyes on TMC-ruled West Bengal, where assembly polls are due next year.Recently, a political confrontation erupted between the Trinamool Congress and the BJP over two of Bengal's most revered cultural icons, Rabindranath Tagore and Bankim Chandra Chattopadhyay.In Kolkata, West Bengal Minister Shashi Panja said Parmar's statement showed that the BJP was trying to demean Bengal's intelligentsia and the people in a bid to subdue the pride and the soul of the eastern state.Parmar made the controversial remark during an event held in Agar Malwa district on the 150th birth anniversary of tribal icon Birsa Munda."Raja Ram Mohan Roy was a British agent. He worked in the country as their 'dalal' and started a vicious cycle of religious conversion," he said.The minister claimed the British had projected several people as "fake social reformers" and promoted those who encouraged conversions."If anyone had the courage to stop this and protect the tribal community, it was Birsa Munda," he said, adding that missionary schools were the only educational institutions during British rule, and education was used as a cover for religious conversion.Parmar said Munda recognised this trend, left missionary education, and fought for his community and against British rule.Hitting out at the BJP, Panja said the women of the country know that the 'Sati' system was abolished due to Roy's efforts."If the BJP wants to axe its own foot, it is free to do so; but it cannot insult Bengal," the senior TMC leader said, claiming that the people of the state are watching the "attack on the pride of Bengal."Reacting to the remarks, Samajwadi Party national spokesman Yash Bhartiya alleged the BJP and RSS have been acting as "agents of the British" to date, which makes them find faults with every social reformer."Promoting evil practices and superstition is the main objective of the BJP government, which is why fraudulent godmen are flourishing in Madhya Pradesh," he alleged.He alleged that even though Parmar has displayed "low and inferior thinking", the BJP won't take action and referred to the controversial remarks made by Parmar's colleague and minister Vijay Shah on a woman Army officer."Earlier, MP Minister Vijay Shah made objectionable remarks against the woman Army officer who briefed the media during Operation Sindoor, but no action was taken against him. The Bhind MLA was seen beating and forcing the Collector to vacate his house, yet no action was taken. This shows the BJP supports all these views," the SP leader alleged.He was referring to a huge row triggered by Vijay Shah after he made controversial remarks on Colonel Sophiya Qureshi, a prominent face of the armed forces, along with Wing Commander Vyomika Singh, during media briefings on Operation Sindoor.National Students Union of India's (NSUI) national spokesman Viraj Yadav dubbed remarks made by Parmar “shameful and wilful distortion of history”."Raja Ram Roy was a visionary reformer whose monumental contributions shaped modern India. He bravely championed the abolition of the barbaric practice of Sati, advocated for women's rights and education, and founded the Brahmo Samaj to combat social evils like caste discrimination and blind rituals," he added.His efforts to harmonise Western rational thought with India's philosophical heritage paved the way for a just, enlightened, and progressive society, Yadav said."This wilful distortion of history by the minister exposes the dangerous ideological agenda of the BJP and RSS, seeking to undermine the very heroes who laid the foundation of our nation's values."Such irresponsible statements from an education minister are unacceptable and must be condemned in the strongest terms," the NSUI leader said, adding that Raja Ram Mohan Roy's legacy belongs to every Indian who believes in liberty, equality, and social justice.Following widespread criticism, Parmar, in a video statement, said the remark "came out by mistake"."Raja Ram Mohan Roy was a social reformer, and he should be respected. The sentence slipped out of my mouth by mistake, and I am very sad about it. I apologise for it," he said.The minister said he did not intend to insult any historical figure.Raja Ram Mohan Roy was a reformer and one of the founders of the Brahmo Sabha in 1828, the precursor of the Brahmo Samaj- a socio-religious reform movement. He has been dubbed the “Father of Indian Renaissance”.

6 days ago

Sports

Nigeria v DR Congo: High-stakes play-off pits Osimhen’s firepower against Leopards’ steel

Nigeria and DR Congo meet in Rabat on Sunday for Africa’s solitary ticket to the inter-confederation play-off for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Super Eagles arrive on a surge after a 4–1 extra-time win over Gabon; the Leopards come in hardened by a stoppage-time defeat of Cameroon. It is a clash of contrasting strengths: Nigeria’s cutting edge led by Victor Osimhen against a DR Congo back line marshalled by captain Chancel Mbemba and new recruit Aaron Wan-Bissaka. The fixture is on neutral soil, removing home advantage and sharpening the tactical margins. For Nigeria, it is a step toward a seventh World Cup appearance. For DR Congo, it is a chance to edge closer to a first finals since 1974 (as Zaire). Form and route to the final Eric Chelle’s side were pushed to the brink by Gabon before substitutes swung the tie. Chidera Ejuke’s strike restored the lead in extra time and Osimhen finished with a ruthless brace. Nigeria have now won five of their last six matches in all competitions and have scored 10 goals across their most recent three. Sébastien Desabre’s Leopards showed a different pathway, strangling Cameroon’s threat before Mbemba arrived at the far post to settle a tense semi-final 1–0. DR Congo have won three straight by a single goal, a sequence built on defensive order and quick counters. Head-to-head The nations have met six times: DR Congo lead with three wins to Nigeria’s two, with one draw. The last meeting was a 1–1 friendly in 2018. This is their first competitive encounter in more than half a century. Past meetings 05 Nov 1966: Nigeria 3–2 DR Congo 26 Nov 1966: DR Congo 1–0 Nigeria 27 Dec 1966: DR Congo 1–0 Nigeria 03 Mar 2010: Nigeria 5–2 DR Congo 08 Oct 2015: Nigeria 0–2 DR Congo 28 May 2018: Nigeria 1–1 DR Congo Team news and likely XIs Nigeria’s midfield received a boost: Wilfred Ndidi is available after clarification that accumulated cautions from the group phase do not carry into the play-offs (only existing suspensions apply). Semi Ajayi also returns from a one-game ban and strengthens centre-back options alongside breakout teenager Benjamin Fredrick and Calvin Bassey. Ejuke’s game-changing cameo has created a selection debate with Ademola Lookman for a wide role, while Akor Adams may again partner Osimhen up front. For DR Congo, Desabre has no fresh injuries or suspensions and could retain the XI that beat Cameroon. Wan-Bissaka continues at right-back, Mbemba and Axel Tuanzebe anchor central defence, with Arthur Masuaku offering thrust from the left. Upfield, Cédric Bakambu is expected to spearhead the attack, with pace and invention from Theo Bongonda and young No10s such as Ngal’ayel Mukau in support. Nigeria possible XI: Nwabili; Osayi-Samuel, Fredrick, Bassey, Sanusi; Onyeka, Ndidi, Iwobi; Lookman/Ejuke, Osimhen, Adams. DR Congo possible XI: Mpasi; Wan-Bissaka, Mbemba, Tuanzebe, Masuaku/Kayembe; Moutoussamy, Pickel; Bongonda, Mbuku/Mukau, Sadiki; Bakambu. Key battles Osimhen v Mbemba/Tuanzebe: the Napoli striker’s explosive runs against a disciplined, aerially strong pairing. Nigeria’s left channel v Wan-Bissaka: the Premier League full-back has tightened DR Congo’s right side; Osimhen’s drifting and Sanusi’s overlaps will test him. Transitions: Nigeria’s front line thrives when Iwobi finds early passes; DR Congo are dangerous when Bongonda and Bakambu break into space. What to expect Nigeria will try to raise the tempo and pin the Leopards back with width and pressure, while DR Congo will trust their shape, seek set-pieces and be clinical on the break. With neither side enjoying home comforts in Morocco and both managers favouring risk-controlled football in knockout games, a tight contest is likely. If it opens up late, Nigeria’s bench depth—Ejuke, Samuel Chukwueze and fresh legs at centre-back—could tilt it; if it stays cagey, DR Congo’s nous in one-goal games keeps the door wide open. On Sunday night in Rabat, everything will come down to 90 minutes — perhaps more. At stake is a spot in the intercontinental play-off, scheduled from 23 to 31 March 2026 in Guadalajara and Monterrey, Mexico.

6 days ago

Sports

McIlroy loses out to Fitzpatrick in playoff at World Tour Championship but wins Race to Dubai title

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Rory McIlroy holed an eagle putt on No. 18 to force a playoff but lost out to Matt Fitzpatrick, who won the World Tour Championship for a third time on a chaotic final day of the 2025 golf season on Sunday. The consolation for McIlroy was a fourth straight Race to Dubai title to complete a banner year that included winning the Masters to complete the career Grand Slam and an away Ryder Cup with Team Europe. A final individual victory proved just beyond McIlroy, though, after he hit his drive into a creek on the first playoff hole – No. 18 – and made bogey. Fitzpatrick rolled in a par putt from 3 feet to win the season-ending title again at Jumeirah Golf Estates, after 2016 and 2020. McIlroy delivered the biggest drama when he poured in a 15-footer for eagle on his last hole in regulation to complete a round of 5-under 67 and join Fitzpatrick (66) on 18-under par for the week. Fitzpatrick watched it all in the scorer’s hut and met McIlroy outside, shaking his hand and giving his Ryder Cup teammate a hug. They did so again after the playoff — which finished with both of them as winners. AP golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golf

6 days ago