Archive July 1, 2025

Saudi’s Al Hilal Knock Man City Out Of Club World Cup In Huge Shock

Saudi Arabian side Al Hilal sent English giants Manchester City crashing out of the Club World Cup on Monday, snatching a shock 4-3 victory in extra time in the biggest upset of the tournament so far.

The match finished 2-2 at full-time but at the end of an eventful extra-time Marcos Leonardo grabbed the winner and pulled off one of the greatest wins in Middle Eastern football history.

The Saudi club advance to the quarter-finals where they will face Brazilian club Fluminense, ensuring a non-European team will reach the last four.

City had taken the lead in the ninth minute in controversial fashion, Bernardo Silva finishing after Rayan Ait-Nouri’s cross.

READ ALSO: PSG Rout Messi’s Inter Miami To Reach Club World Cup Quarters

Al Hilal players protested Ait-Nouri had controlled with his arm in the build-up but the goal stood.

Manchester City’s Algerian defender #21 Rayan Ait-Nouri and Al Hilal’s Brazilian midfielder #27 Kaio Cesar fight for the ball during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 round of 16 football match between England’s Manchester City and Saudi’s Al-Hilal at the Camping World stadium in Orlando on June 30, 2025. (Photo by PATRICIA DE MELO MOREIRA / AFP)

City had plenty of opportunities to extend their lead before the break but a combination of poor finishing and inspired goalkeeping from Moroccan goalkeeper Yassine Bounou kept the lead at a single goal.

Al Hilal offered several reminders of their threat on the break but City even more chances with Jeremy Doku volleying straight at Bounou who moments later reacted superbly again to keep out a Bernardo effort.

City punished

The question as to whether City would live to regret not converting those chances was answered within a minute of the resumption.

Former City full-back Joao Cancelo’s low cross was parried out by Ederson, Malcolm pounced but saw his shot blocked by Ruben Dias only for the ball to loop to Marcos Leonardo to head home the equaliser.

Six minutes later and the City’s high defensive line was exposed by a long ball from Cancelo which Brazilian Malcolm raced on to and he showed power and pace as he broke away before coolly slotting past Ederson.

Al Hilal’s Brazilian midfielder #27 Kaio Cesar and Manchester City’s Algerian defender #21 Rayan Ait-Nouri fight for the ball during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 round of 16 football match between England’s Manchester City and Saudi’s Al-Hilal at the Camping World stadium in Orlando on June 30, 2025. (Photo by CHANDAN KHANNA / AFP)

The Saudi fans in the crowd went wild while Pep Guardiola responded immediately with a triple substitution with midfielder Rodri and defenders Nathan Ake and Manuel Akanji introduced.

That brought some much needed stability to a shaky back line but City needed improvement at the other end too and it came, albeit in it scruffy circumstances.

The Al Hilal defence were unable to deal with a Bernardo corner and Erling Haaland pounced to steer home the lose ball and make it 2-2.

City piled on the pressure as they looked for the winner but yet again Bounou proved their nemesis as he denied Akanji and Ruben Dias and even when he was beaten by Haaland, substitute Ali Lajami produced a magnificent goal-line clearance.

Guardiola took off Haaland and introduced Egyptian forward Omar Marmoush as the game went into extra-time.

But for all City’s depth, Al Hilal had a deep well of spirit to draw upon and just four minutes into the opening period Al Hilal regained the lead when Kalidou Koulibaly rose superbly to meet a Ruben Neves corner with a brilliantly angled header.

City responded with a goal of real quality when Rayan Cherki’s brilliantly floated ball towards the back post was poked home masterfully by Phil Foden, at full stretch and from the tightest of angles.

Al Hilal’s Serbian midfielder #22 Sergej Milinkovic-Savic assist Al Hilal’s Brazilian forward #11 Marcos Leonardo for their team’s winning goal during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 round of 16 football match between England’s Manchester City and Saudi’s Al-Hilal at the Camping World stadium in Orlando on June 30, 2025. (Photo by Chandan Khanna / AFP)

But incredibly Al Hilal responded again to restore their lead — Sergej Milinkovic-Savic’s header was saved by Ederson but Marcos Leonardo followed in to bundle the ball over the line.

As the celebrating Al Hilal fans poured out of the stadium, the Brazilian striker let his emotions pour out.

“I’ve had a difficult time in the last two months. My mother spent 70 days in the ICU,” he said.

“Today she’s fine, thank God. When I scored those two goals, I thought of her. She was able to watch the match”.

City skipper Bernardo Silva said his team had paid the price for being unable to deal with Al Hilal’s counter-attacking.

“We scored three and could’ve scored five, six. It was all about controlling when we lost the ball, controlling the transitions, don’t let them run, and they ran way too many times,” he said.

“With one, two passes there was always a feeling of danger coming from them. When we allow teams to run like this we always suffer a lot, and today was the case,” he said.

The Chase’s Shaun Wallace surprises followers with move away from ITV show

The Great Escapers, a brand-new ITV show starring Shaun Wallace, also known as The Dark Destroyer, will feature celebrities who will compete to plan the best day of.

Shaun Wallace will make an all-new ITV series appearance.

The Chase star Shaun Wallace has announced a new move away from the ITV programme.

Shaun, who has been one of “the chasers” on Bradley Walsh’s quiz since 2009, told fans he was “very excited” to be filming for a new show called The Great Escapers. In a video posted on X, which was called Twitter, Shaun, 65, described the project as “a wonderful, exciting holiday adventure”.

“Very excited to be filming in Rhodes for a new show called “The Great Escapers” with Mark @MarkLabbett and Jenny @jenlion,” the post read. Looking forward to a lot of fun with those two. Before we start moving forward, we should do some exercise in the sunshine.

Jenny Ryan and Mark Labbett are also The Chase experts. However, it is understood that neither Shaun, Mark, or Jenny are leaving the quiz because regulars on ITV entertainment programs frequently appear as guests on other shows.

READ MORE: The Chase’s Darragh Ennis shares Harry Potter quiz ‘only mega-fans’ can solve

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Shaun, a barrister, gave the honest update to his 89, 000 X followers arouse. Have a great time, one fan said, and another, “Hope you win your episode, Shaun”!

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Each episode of The Great Escapers will see celebrities from different backgrounds compete to plan the best day out. Other episodes will feature stars from Coronation Street and Loose Women, among other shows and fames, it is understood.

In this brand-new series, some of ITV’s most well-known faces are flying out to the most stunning locations, said Katie Rawcliffe, Director of Entertainment and Daytime ITV. We are eager to see the entire Corrie, I’m a Celeb, The Chase, and Loose Women cast in all their holiday splendor!

READ MORE: Chaser Paul Sinha shares sad reason he went straight back to work after two heart attacks

The Great Escapers is in partnership with Jet2, one of the UK’s largest tour operators. The series will air on ITV1, ITVX, STV and STV Player later this year, according to Express.co.uk.

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One of the original “chasers” on the teatime show is Shaun, who is referred to as The Dark Destroyer on The Chase. He and Mark, both 59, have appeared in 14 celebrity seasons and 18 regular seasons.

Last month, fans of the programme were furious because it was taken off air due to ITV’s coverage of Royal Ascot. The Chase missed several episodes so the broadcaster could accommodate the racing event. Loose Women was also affected, as it was taken off air for three days; Wednesday, Thursday and Friday, for the races.

Donald Macdonald dead: Tragedy as popular Play School presenter passes away

A veteran TV presenter who is renowned for hosting children’s programs called Play School passed away at the age of 86.

On Monday, Donald Macdonald lost his brief battle with cancer, which he referred to as “a showbiz great.” His acting career, which spanned more than 40 years, included roles in TV dramas he also wrote, as well as roles in stage productions like John McKellar’s A Cup of Tea, a Bex, and a Good Lie Down.

However, he is best remembered for entertaining families on the well-known BBC television program Play School, which Donald presented alongside other well-known faces like Trisha Goddard from 1966 to 1969. A journalist, Craig Bennett, said on his social media account yesterday, “One of our showbiz greats left today at 12:45am.

“Donald Macdonald was a stalwart of the screen,” according to legend. He was the author of smash-hit plays like Caravan, dazzled on London’s West End, and delighted millions of viewers over the years with his starring roles in TV shows like Play School, where he served as a presenter from 1966 to 1969. “

The likes of (top left) Janet Kingsbury and Trisha Goddard (bottom left) were presented by Donald (back row, second from left) at Play School.
The likes of (top left) Janet Kingsbury and Trisha Goddard (bottom left) were presented by Donald (back row, second from left) at Play School.

He appeared on television programs like Certain Women, The Box, Cop Shop, Skyways, the raunchy Alvin Purple, and Superman Returns, according to the journalist, who is based in Australia where Donald was born. Donald was a stylish delight and always a pleasure to be around. “

Before moving to the UK in the middle of the 1960s to advance his career, Donald enjoyed early success as an Australian stage actor. In addition to writing more theatre pieces, he was able to write comedic plays about three unhappy holiday couples, Caravan. He continued to act, and he had roles in Kenny and Superman Returns.

However, Donald died on Monday in Australia after a brief illness that affected his acting and presenting skills in recent years. In his final days, the performer spent time with Paula Duncan and Amelia Barrett, both of whom he was cousins.

In a post on Mr. Bennett’s social media page, Donald enjoyed some bubbly and lemon meringue pie, and his hospital room turned into a party. Even in a hospital gown, blue was always his color! He gave his permission to post his final photo, asking, “What the heck! “Vale to a genuine gentleman.” “

Users of Facebook shared their grief over the passing of the showbiz star in a response to the journalist’s post. “Honored to have appeared in two of his plays,” a fellow actor wrote. The ideal gentleman. No one else played the High Court Judge like Donald, either. RIP. “

Another person said, “We were VERY LUCKY to meet Donald through you two, get to know him, and be entertained by his lovely demeanor, sharp wit, and of course, his writing abilities. What a lovely, kind man. “

P Diddy trial verdict chaos as jury hands judge two notes before deliberations

Judge Arun Subramanian had to remind jurors of his instructions on the law almost as soon as the proceedings in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal sex trafficking trial began on Monday.

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs is accused of two counts of sex trafficking, two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution and one count of racketeering(Image: Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP)

Jury deliberations in Sean “Diddy” Combs’ federal sex trafficking trial quickly hit a snag yesterday – as two notes were handed to the judge.

A jury received a message that heightened concern that they were unable to follow the 61 pages of instructions the judge had just read to them before the hearings began. Judge Arun Subramanian insists that all jurors strictly adhere to his instructions, even if the proceedings take some time.

The second note, which was sent several hours later, requested clarification regarding the drug distribution instructions, an allegation that was included in Combs’ racketeering conspiracy charge. This was addressed, and discussions are still going on. There are some chances that a decision will be reached this afternoon (UK time).

Diddy, 55, has been accused of racketeering, two counts of prostitution, and two counts of sex trafficking. He denies any wrongdoing. If found guilty, the hip-hop mogul could spend the rest of his life behind bars.

P Diddy, centre, motions a heart sign to his family in attendance at court during his trial
P Diddy, centre, motions a heart sign to his family in attendance at court during his trial(Image: AP)

Before the jury, which consisted of eight men and four women, began deliberating, the defendant and his supporters bowed their heads in prayer in the courtroom. The musician, who has won three Grammy Awards, must now comb through his or her seven weeks of sometimes graphic and moving testimony.

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The trial had been informed of Diddy’s propensity for violence and his sexual preferences, including drug-fueled “freak-offs” or “hotel nights.”

Combs bowed his head with his supporters as he sat facing them in the audience while wearing his customary sweater and khakis. They applauded as they were about to finish, along with the hip-hop legend.

The star, born in New York City, has pleaded not guilty to federal charges of racketeering conspiracy, two counts of sex trafficking — relating to two of his ex-girlfriends — and two counts of transportation to engage in prostitution for allegedly arranging to fly his girlfriends and sex workers across state lines.

Federal prosecutors and Combs’ defense team made their final attempts to persuade jurors to convict or acquit the musician in final arguments last week.

The defendant used force, fear, and intimidation to obtain what he desired, according to Assistant US Attorney Christy Slavik. He believed that the law was being overturned by his fame, wealth, and status.

The 55-year-old musician
The music legend has won three Grammy Awards, including Best Rap Album for No Way Out(Image: AFP via Getty Images)
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She claimed that he made it his “close inner circle and a small army of personal staff, who made it their mission to advance his position of power and safeguard his reputation at all costs.”

But Marc Agnifilo, the defense attorney, refrained. He asserted that crime is not the topic here. Money is the topic. He noted that Combs’ accusers in the criminal case brought civil lawsuits against him.

Sam Fender and Chappell Roan bring £1.2bn boost to North West after sold-out shows

In 2024, artists like Sam Fender, Chappell Roan, and the Foo Fighters performed sold-out shows in Manchester, Liverpool, and the rest of the North West, aiding in the growth of music tourism.

Sam Fender performed at Europe’s biggest indoor live music venue, Co-op Live(Image: Thomas Niedermueller, Getty Images)

A new report has highlighted the contributions of Sam Fender, Chappell Roan, and the Foo Fighters to the music scene in the North West, contributing to a staggering £1.2 billion increase in music tourism last year. 3.3 million music lovers, including fans from abroad, were drawn to live performances in Manchester, Liverpool, and other hotspots in 2024.

Sam Fender at Co-op Live, Chappell Roan rocking out at Manchester Academy, and the Foo Fighters’ thrilling crowds at Emirates Old Trafford made the region sing with tunes from various genres. Hordes of music lovers poured into the North West to attend events like Parklife, Creamfields, and Beat-Herder.

The commercial benefit was highlighted in the UK Music’s Tuesday report, which highlighted the sector’s support for roughly 9,250 full-time jobs. The significant economic boost from music tourists was fueled by ticket sales, food and beverage sales, merchandise, venue parking, camping fees, lodging, and travel costs.

Chappell Roan performed at Manchester's Academy and will headline Reading and Leeds Festivals this August
Chappell Roan performed at Manchester’s Academy and will headline Reading and Leeds Festivals this August(Image: Jim Dyson, Getty Images)

With about 21.9 million Brits traveling far beyond their typical commute for a spot of live music escapism, the number of “music tourists” rose nationwide. According to the enlightening study, 1.6 million foreign visitors, drawn in by the likes of Bruce Springsteen and Burna Boy, also flew in.

The UK economy will experience a record-breaking £10 billion boost in 2024 thanks to 23.5 million music tourists visiting the country, ending a high note for the post-pandemic recovery of the sector.

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Culture Secretary Lisa Nandy praised the country’s vibrant live music scene, saying that music brings people together and makes a big difference, whether it’s at a large stadium or a packed-out local venue. Our music industry is incredibly important to us. It’s one of our biggest exports, inspires young people all over, and is a reflection of who we are as a nation.

The Foo Fighters headlined Emirates Old Trafford
The Foo Fighters headlined Emirates Old Trafford(Image: HELLE ARENSBAK, Ritzau Scanpix/AFP via Getty Images)

She also praised the government’s commitment to the arts, which included the recently announced $ 30 million “music growth package” intended to attract new talent and safeguard venues, keeping the music scene active and reaching new heights.

However, despite the industry’s economic successes, there are still significant financial obstacles to overcome, according to Tom Kiehl, CEO of UK Music.

“Music has a lot of positive effects for our local communities, but there are still some issues facing our industry, such as the rising cost of touring for artists and the threat of closure,” said Mr. Kiehl.

Every community has the potential for vibrant, diverse music sectors and has something special, according to “From Land’s End to John O’Groats.” It is crucial to empower local leaders to enable growth in a time when the government is pursuing growth and promoting the growth of our musicians, creators, venues, studios, and music industries.

The local music action charter, which UK Music claimed will “help councils and combined authorities create locally tailored music strategies that are in line with their specific priorities,” is presented in the report.

The Local Government Association’s culture, tourism, and sport board chairwoman, Liz Green, commented: “These record-breaking figures demonstrate how crucial live music is to the prosperity of our communities.”

The report serves as a reminder that supporting local music is more than just good sense and that reviving our high streets is a result. To ensure the continued growth of music in every region of the UK, we’re committed to working with local partners.

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