12.30am Monday fun ahead
It feels like only five minutes ago that the World Cup began but we are now coming up to the end of the group stages.
Group A is first up at 6pm UAE time. We know both Uruguay and Russia are through already, but we don't know who will win the group. A win or draw gives Russia the honour. If Uruguay triumph they get top spot.
Meanwhile, it is a matter of pride as Egypt and Saudi Arabia look to sign off from Russia with a consolation win.
At 10pm it is Group B that takes centre stage. Both Spain and Portugal still have work to do to secure a place in the last 16.
Portugal must at the very least draw with Iran to progress, but need a win to realistically top Group B with Spain facing off against already eliminated Morocco.
Another busy day ahead. See you tomorrow.
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Midnight: Colombia eliminate Poland
It finishes 3-0 for Colombia. Radamel Falcao and Juan Cuadrado add second-half goals to give Colombia an ultimately comfortable win.
They now go in to their final game with Japan on Thursday knowing a win will put them in the last 16. A draw, with their goal difference of +2, would be enough if Senegal lose to already eliminated Poland.
But it looks as if they will need to win to be sure as on Sunday's form Poland will be unlikely to get anything from the game with Senegal.
They never got going in this game and they join Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Peru, Costa Rica, South Korea, Tunisia and Panama in being eliminated from the World Cup.
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10.55pm: Advantage Colombia
A pretty turgid first 45 minutes but it is Colombia who are keeping themselves in the hunt for a spot in the last 16, while Poland are heading home as it stands.
Yerry Mina headed home James Rodriguez's centre six minutes before the break for the only goal of the game.
Colombia have not been very good. But they have not needed to be. Poland have been dire and need to somehow find a way to turn this around otherwise they are going to be eliminated in about an hour's time.
10pm: Pressure on Colombia and Poland
There is no margin for error for either Colombia or Poland.
They both lost their opening games, and the draw earlier between Japan and Senegal means that if there is a loser in Sunday's last game in Kazan then they are out of the tournament.
Lots at stake here. A win will keep qualification in a team's hands. Lose and you are out. Draw and winning the final game still might not be enough.
This is going to be fascinating.
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8.52pm: Full time, Japan 2-2 Senegal
Japan twice came from behind to secure a point as a goal from substitute Keisuke Honda earned a 2-2 draw against Senegal at the Ekaterinburg Arena.
Senegal goalkeeper Khadim N'Diaye was badly at fought, coming off his line to punch the ball but missing it entirely.
Takashi Inui kept the ball in play and squared it to Honda, who had been on the pitch a matter of minutes after coming on for Shinji Kagawa, smashing the ball past a couple of defenders on the line in the process.
It was the former AC Milan player’s 37th goal for Japan, moving him to joint fourth on the country’s list of all-time scorers’ list. In doing so, Honda became the first Japanese to score at three World Cups.
It had looked like the headlines would belong to a Senegalese teenager before Honda’s intervention.
Defender Moussa Wague, 19, became the youngest African player to score at a World Cup to restore Senegal's lead after Takashi Inui had cancelled out Sadio Mane's first-half effort.
Wague arrived in the area like a runaway express train at pace to smash the ball past Japan goalkeeper Eiji Kawashima following a break down the left-hand side.
The result means both teams go into their final Group H matches level on four points with the same goal difference. Senegal face Colombia on Thursday while Japan take on Poland.
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8.07pm: Egypt manager defiant
Hector Cuper has rejected rumours of internal unrest among his Egypt squad as they look to “bow out of the World Cup in style” against Saudi Arabia on Monday.
Group A’s two bottom sides, already eliminated following two defeats each, bring down their respective campaigns at the Volgograd Arena in Volgograd.
Goalkeeper and captain Essam El Hadary, 45, is said to have clashed with the goalkeeping coach and players following the 3-1 defeat to Russia last time out, something both manager and player were quick to rebuff.
Read what else Cuper had to say on the Saudi Arabia match here.
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7.47pm: Half time, Japan 1-1 Senegal
Honours even at the half-time break in a game of few chances.
Senegal took the lead on 11 minutes when Japan goalkeeper Eiji Kawashima parried a shot straight on to the shins of Liverpool forward Sadio Mane.
Japan equalised on 34 minutes following a foray down the left by Yuto Nagatomo, who did well to control the ball in the area under pressure. The Inter Milan defender laid the ball off to Takashi Inui, who just curled in a beautiful right-foot effort beyond Khadim N'Diaye.
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7.02pm: 'I didn’t particularly like the performance'
Perhaps the most encouraging element of England's 6-1 win over Panama is that the manager remained grounded afterwards.
“I didn’t particularly like the performance,” said Gareth Southgate, though qualifying those comments. “I didn’t like the start and I didn’t like the goal [conceded] at the end but I guess the bits in the middle were pretty good. I am being hyper-critical. We played some really good stuff for 35-40 minutes.”
A Harry Kane hat-trick, a double for John Stones and a spectacular strike from Jesse Lingard sealed England's qualification to the knockout stages of the World Cup, but Southgate was concerned about the bookings picked up by his side. Top spot in the group could be determined by the Fair Play table with England locked on six points with Belgium, their final Group G opponents on Thursday.
Read Richard Jolly's full-time match report here.
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6.37pm: Messi to receive life-size chocolate birthday cake
When Moscow confectioners found out Lionel Messi would be celebrating his birthday during the World Cup, they decided he needed a gift that measured up - a life-size chocolate sculpture in his likeness.
A team of five workers at Moscow’s Altufyevo Confectionery worked for nearly a week to carve the sculpture in 60 kg (132 lbs) of chocolate to mark the Argentina forward’s 31st birthday on Sunday.
No jokes about it being stale like his performances please.
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6.30pm: Japan v Senegal team sheets
Starting line-ups for the World Cup Group H match between Japan and Senegal at Yekaterinburg Arena on Sunday (7pm UAE kick off):
Japan
Eiji Kawashima, Gen Shoji, Yuto Nagatomo, Hiroki Sakai, Maya Yoshida, Gaku Shibasaki, Genki Haraguchi, Shinji Kagawa, Takashi Inui, Makoto Hasebe (capt), Yuya Osako
Coach: Akira Nishino (JPN)
Senegal
Khadim Ndiaye, Moussa Wague, Kalidou Koulibaly, Salif Sane, Youssouf Sabaly, Alfred Ndiaye, Idrissa Gueye, Sadio Mane (capt), Ismaila Sarr, Pape Ndiaye, Mbaye Niang
Coach: Aliou Cisse (SEN)
Referee: Gianluca Rocchi (ITA)
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6.11pm: Player ratings
England brushed aside a weak Panama side 6-1 to qualify for the last 16 of the World Cup, as Harry Kane netted a hat-trick.
The Tottenham Hotspur striker scored two first-half penalties and deflected in a third after half time as England claimed their biggest win at a World Cup.
See how each player rated here.
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5.53pm: Full time, England 6-1 Panama
Another first at the 2018 World Cup as Panama score their first-ever goal at the global finals.
The Central Americans join Iceland in scoring for the first time at a World Cup. A free kick whipped into the box was pounced on by substitute Felipe Baloy, who slid in to direct the ball home and send the Panama fans delirious.
In the grand scheme of things it was little more than consolation though. After starting the second half five goals to the good England soon made it six, although rather fortuitously it has to be said. Just past the hour mark, Harry Kane became only the third English player to record a hat-trick at the World Cup - joining Geoff Hurst and Gary Lineker - although the Tottenham Hotspur striker knew little about it.
A speculative strike from Ruben Loftus-Cheek, in for the injured Dele Alli, clipped the heel of the England captain, wrong footing Jaime Penedo in the Panama goal.
So England join Belgium, their final Group G opponents, in progressing to the last 16.
All that is left to settle now is who will go through as group winners when the two sides meet in Kaliningrad on Thursday.
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5.03pm: Half time, England 5-0 Panama
England are in total control of their Group G clash against Panama, sitting on a five-goal lead at the Nizhny Novgorod Stadium at half time.
Jesse Lingard has been the star man in the first 45 minutes, winning a penalty successfully converted by captain Harry Kane before scoring a scorching third for England.
England couldn't have got off to a better start. John Stones' header from a Kieran Trippier corner had given England an eighth-minute lead. The referee then pointed to the penalty spot after Lingard was bundled over by two Panama defenders on 22 minutes. Kane, scorer of both goals in England's 2-1 win over Tunisia, slammed home to make it 2-0.
Lingard then scored England's first goal in Russia not from a corner or a dead ball. The Manchester United midfielder curling home from long-range.
Stones scored his second of the match five minutes before the break. Jordan Henderson's ball into the box was headed back across goal and despite Raheem Sterling's initial effort being saved, Stones was on hand to head in the rebound, the referee waving away Panama protests of offside against the Manchester City defender.
Kane scored his second off the match and second from the penalty spot on the stroke of half time, sending Jaime Penedo the wrong way.
Interesting fact: England have now scored more goals at this World Cup than they have in the previous two tournaments.
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3.17pm: England v Panama: teams announced
England manager Gareth Southgate kept faith with Raheem Sterling up front alongside captain Harry Kane in his starting lineup for Sunday's Group G clash with Panama in Nizhny Novgorod.
Southgate's only change was to replace midfielder Dele Alli, who is carrying an injury but stayed on the bench, with Ruben Loftus-Cheek who made a promising substitute's appearance in the opening 2-1 win over Tunisia.
Sterling's retention in the team came at the expense of Marcus Rashford, whom many pundits had expected to start given his trickery late on against the Tunisians.
Panama manager Hernan Gomez kept the same line-up that lost their opener to Belgium, with dreadlocked Roman Torres the linchpin of a defence expecting a busy day.
Los Canaleros (The Canal Men) were again looking to Alberto Quintero in midfield for some creative spark to complement the speed and physicality of other players. The World Cup debutants had 37-year old striker Blas Perez leading the line up front.
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Comment: Perspective needed over furore caused by images of leaked England team
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England (3-5-2)
Jordan Pickford; Kyle Walker, John Stones; Harry Maguire; Jordan Henderson, Kieran Trippier, Ashley Young, Jesse Lingard, Ruben Loftus-Cheek; Hareem Sterling, Harry Kane (capt)
Coach: Gareth Southgate (Eng)
Panama (4-5-1)
Jaime Penedo; Michael Murillo, Roman Torres (capt), Fidel Escobar, Eric Davis; Gabriel Gomez, Edgar Barcenas, Armando Cooper, Anibal Godoy, Jose Luis Rodriguez; Blas Perez
Coach: Hernan Gomez (COL)
Referee: Ghead Grisha (EGY)
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2.55pm: Zlatko Dalic exclusive
Croatia manager Zlatko Dalic has thanked the UAE for its support following his side’s World Cup victory against Argentina.
Dalic, who shares a strong affinity with the Emirates having spent three years as Al Ain manager prior to taking the Croatia post, guided his country to a 3-0 win against the two-time world champions in Nizhny Novgorod on Thursday.
The victory resonated in the UAE, with the Burj Khalifa lighting up in red and white on Thursday night with the country's name emblazoned on its exterior. The world’s tallest tower has been marking each team’s victory throughout the tournament as part of a promotion organised by Adidas.
Read what the former Al Ain manager had to tell The National's John McAuley here.
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1.40pm: Unlike that bust, this Ronaldo mural is spot-on
A Russian artist has paid tribute to Portugal star Cristiano Ronaldo by painting a mural of the World Cup's joint top goalscorer as the European champions are set to arrive in the city of Saransk ahead of their decisive final group match against Iran on Monday.
Yulia Antipova painted the three-by-four-metre mural with Ronaldo's smiling face surrounded by Portugal's green and red colours.
Unlike a bust of the player which was placed at an airport in Portugal before it was removed after being widely mocked, not least for its grimacing smile, the mural's likeness to him attracted passersby to stop and pose for photos next to the artwork.
Read full story here. View video and the rather strange bust dedicated to Ronaldo below.
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1.05pm: Calm before the storm? England and Panama fans relaxed
A warm and sunny Sunday morning welcomed fans of England and Panama before their teams meet on Sunday afternoon at the Nizhny Novgord Stadium.
Many English fans were confident about the performance of their team but surprised by the warm weather in Nizhny. Temperatures were sitting in the upper 20s during the morning.
Panama lost their first match in Group G to Belgium while England defeated Tunisia 2-1. On Saturday Belgium thrashed Tunisia 5-2.
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1pm: Watch Ronaldo and Portugal train
Even as Lionel Messi and his Argentina teammates have struggled in both games they have played so far, Portugal have not had such problems. Messi's rival Cristiano Ronaldo, who leads the reigning European champions at the tournament, has been in excellent form, scoring against Spain and Morocco.
They are up against Iran on Monday, with a win guaranteeing them a spot in the last 16. Watch how they prepare for the big game by swiping the photos below from left to right.
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11.15am: Brazil good but fireworks spectacular in St Petersburg
Football fans from all over the world were treated to a spectacular celebration in St Petersburg on Saturday as millions of people gathered in the city centre for Scarlet Sails, the climactic event of the annual White Nights festival.
The tradition celebrates the end of the school year with a stunning fireworks display as a ship with scarlet sails makes its way slowly along the English and Admiralty Embankments to the Winter Palace.
You can read the full story here, watch video below.
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10.50am: Echo to Escobar killing
Colombia head into their clash against Poland in Group H on Sunday under pressure to get a result and with their preparations overshadowed by a police investigation into death threats made to midfielder Carlos Sanchez.
In a grisly echo of the killing of Andres Escobar, who was gunned down after scoring an own goal for Colombia at the 1994 World Cup, Sanchez received threats on social media after receiving a red card in the third minute of Tuesday's 2-1 loss against Japan.
You can read the full story here.
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9.55am: Another fun day in store
'Morning all! We're back with updates from Day 11 of the 2018 World Cup in Russia.
What a day Saturday turned out to be. Belgium proved once again why they are among the teams to beat in this tournament after crushing Tunisia 5-2 in Group G. You can read all about it in this piece by Richard Jolly.
Mexico also continued their winning run, following up on their win over Germany with a 2-1 victory over South Korea. The other Group F game saw Germany come back from the brink of possible elimination when they emerged last-gasp winners over Sweden, their 2-1 triumph keeping their cup defence bid alive.
Today, the first match kick offs at 4pm (UAE time) when England take on Panama. If Gareth Southgate's men win - as is expected, although not a foregone conclusion - they along with Belgium will make the knockout stage of the competition from their group.
That game is followed at 7pm by Japan v Senegal in Group H, with victory almost certainly guaranteeing that team a spot in the next round.
Action concludes at 10pm when Poland face Colombia, with both teams looking to bounce back from their respective losses to Senegal and Japan.
Stay with us throughout the day as we bring you all the news and previews from Russia.
ACL Elite (West) - fixtures
Monday, Sept 30
Al Sadd v Esteghlal (8pm)
Persepolis v Pakhtakor (8pm)
Al Wasl v Al Ahli (8pm)
Al Nassr v Al Rayyan (10pm)
Tuesday, Oct 1
Al Hilal v Al Shorta (10pm)
Al Gharafa v Al Ain (10pm)
A State of Passion
Directors: Carol Mansour and Muna Khalidi
Stars: Dr Ghassan Abu-Sittah
Rating: 4/5
MATCH RESULT
Liverpool 4 Brighton and Hove Albion 0
Liverpool: Salah (26'), Lovren (40'), Solanke (53'), Robertson (85')
The biog
Hometown: Cairo
Age: 37
Favourite TV series: The Handmaid’s Tale, Black Mirror
Favourite anime series: Death Note, One Piece and Hellsing
Favourite book: Designing Brand Identity, Fifth Edition
Our legal consultant
Name: Hassan Mohsen Elhais
Position: legal consultant with Al Rowaad Advocates and Legal Consultants.
WHAT IS A BLACK HOLE?
1. Black holes are objects whose gravity is so strong not even light can escape their pull
2. They can be created when massive stars collapse under their own weight
3. Large black holes can also be formed when smaller ones collide and merge
4. The biggest black holes lurk at the centre of many galaxies, including our own
5. Astronomers believe that when the universe was very young, black holes affected how galaxies formed
The specs
Engine: 1.6-litre 4-cyl turbo
Power: 217hp at 5,750rpm
Torque: 300Nm at 1,900rpm
Transmission: eight-speed auto
Price: from Dh130,000
On sale: now
WORLD RECORD FEES FOR GOALKEEPERS
1) Kepa Arrizabalaga, Athletic Bilbao to Chelsea (£72m)
2) Alisson, Roma to Liverpool (£67m)
3) Ederson, Benfica to Manchester City (£35m)
4) Gianluigi Buffon, Parma to Juventus (£33m)
5) Angelo Peruzzi, Inter Milan to Lazio (£15.7m
Mercer, the investment consulting arm of US services company Marsh & McLennan, expects its wealth division to at least double its assets under management (AUM) in the Middle East as wealth in the region continues to grow despite economic headwinds, a company official said.
Mercer Wealth, which globally has $160 billion in AUM, plans to boost its AUM in the region to $2-$3bn in the next 2-3 years from the present $1bn, said Yasir AbuShaban, a Dubai-based principal with Mercer Wealth.
“Within the next two to three years, we are looking at reaching $2 to $3 billion as a conservative estimate and we do see an opportunity to do so,” said Mr AbuShaban.
Mercer does not directly make investments, but allocates clients’ money they have discretion to, to professional asset managers. They also provide advice to clients.
“We have buying power. We can negotiate on their (client’s) behalf with asset managers to provide them lower fees than they otherwise would have to get on their own,” he added.
Mercer Wealth’s clients include sovereign wealth funds, family offices, and insurance companies among others.
From its office in Dubai, Mercer also looks after Africa, India and Turkey, where they also see opportunity for growth.
Wealth creation in Middle East and Africa (MEA) grew 8.5 per cent to $8.1 trillion last year from $7.5tn in 2015, higher than last year’s global average of 6 per cent and the second-highest growth in a region after Asia-Pacific which grew 9.9 per cent, according to consultancy Boston Consulting Group (BCG). In the region, where wealth grew just 1.9 per cent in 2015 compared with 2014, a pickup in oil prices has helped in wealth generation.
BCG is forecasting MEA wealth will rise to $12tn by 2021, growing at an annual average of 8 per cent.
Drivers of wealth generation in the region will be split evenly between new wealth creation and growth of performance of existing assets, according to BCG.
Another general trend in the region is clients’ looking for a comprehensive approach to investing, according to Mr AbuShaban.
“Institutional investors or some of the families are seeing a slowdown in the available capital they have to invest and in that sense they are looking at optimizing the way they manage their portfolios and making sure they are not investing haphazardly and different parts of their investment are working together,” said Mr AbuShaban.
Some clients also have a higher appetite for risk, given the low interest-rate environment that does not provide enough yield for some institutional investors. These clients are keen to invest in illiquid assets, such as private equity and infrastructure.
“What we have seen is a desire for higher returns in what has been a low-return environment specifically in various fixed income or bonds,” he said.
“In this environment, we have seen a de facto increase in the risk that clients are taking in things like illiquid investments, private equity investments, infrastructure and private debt, those kind of investments were higher illiquidity results in incrementally higher returns.”
The Abu Dhabi Investment Authority, one of the largest sovereign wealth funds, said in its 2016 report that has gradually increased its exposure in direct private equity and private credit transactions, mainly in Asian markets and especially in China and India. The authority’s private equity department focused on structured equities owing to “their defensive characteristics.”
25-MAN SQUAD
Goalkeepers: Francis Uzoho, Ikechukwu Ezenwa, Daniel Akpeyi
Defenders: Olaoluwa Aina, Abdullahi Shehu, Chidozie Awaziem, William Ekong, Leon Balogun, Kenneth Omeruo, Jamilu Collins, Semi Ajayi
Midfielders: John Obi Mikel, Wilfred Ndidi, Oghenekaro Etebo, John Ogu
Forwards: Ahmed Musa, Victor Osimhen, Moses Simon, Henry Onyekuru, Odion Ighalo, Alexander Iwobi, Samuel Kalu, Paul Onuachu, Kelechi Iheanacho, Samuel Chukwueze
On Standby: Theophilus Afelokhai, Bryan Idowu, Ikouwem Utin, Mikel Agu, Junior Ajayi, Valentine Ozornwafor
UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
MEDIEVIL%20(1998)
%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EDeveloper%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20SCE%20Studio%20Cambridge%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EPublisher%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20Sony%20Computer%20Entertainment%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EConsole%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20PlayStation%2C%20PlayStation%204%20and%205%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ERating%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%203.5%2F5%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
Specs
%3Cp%3E%3Cstrong%3EEngine%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%201.5-litre%20turbo%204-cylinder%20%2F%202.0%20turbo%204-cylinder%20(S3)%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EPower%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20148bhp%20%2F%20328bhp%20(S3)%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3ETorque%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20250Nm%20%2F%20420Nm%20(S3)%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EOn%20sale%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20December%0D%3Cbr%3E%3Cstrong%3EPrice%3A%3C%2Fstrong%3E%20TBA%0D%3C%2Fp%3E%0A
TCL INFO
Teams:
Punjabi Legends Owners: Inzamam-ul-Haq and Intizar-ul-Haq; Key player: Misbah-ul-Haq
Pakhtoons Owners: Habib Khan and Tajuddin Khan; Key player: Shahid Afridi
Maratha Arabians Owners: Sohail Khan, Ali Tumbi, Parvez Khan; Key player: Virender Sehwag
Bangla Tigers Owners: Shirajuddin Alam, Yasin Choudhary, Neelesh Bhatnager, Anis and Rizwan Sajan; Key player: TBC
Colombo Lions Owners: Sri Lanka Cricket; Key player: TBC
Kerala Kings Owners: Hussain Adam Ali and Shafi Ul Mulk; Key player: Eoin Morgan
Venue Sharjah Cricket Stadium
Format 10 overs per side, matches last for 90 minutes
Timeline October 25: Around 120 players to be entered into a draft, to be held in Dubai; December 21: Matches start; December 24: Finals
The President's Cake
Director: Hasan Hadi
Starring: Baneen Ahmad Nayyef, Waheed Thabet Khreibat, Sajad Mohamad Qasem
Rating: 4/5
Sholto Byrnes on Myanmar politics
Electoral College Victory
Trump has so far secured 295 Electoral College votes, according to the Associated Press, exceeding the 270 needed to win. Only Nevada and Arizona remain to be called, and both swing states are leaning Republican. Trump swept all five remaining swing states, North Carolina, Georgia, Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin, sealing his path to victory and giving him a strong mandate.
Popular Vote Tally
The count is ongoing, but Trump currently leads with nearly 51 per cent of the popular vote to Harris’s 47.6 per cent. Trump has over 72.2 million votes, while Harris trails with approximately 67.4 million.
Race 3
Produced: Salman Khan Films and Tips Films
Director: Remo D’Souza
Cast: Salman Khan, Anil Kapoor, Jacqueline Fernandez, Bobby Deol, Daisy Shah, Saqib Salem
Rating: 2.5 stars
Tips for job-seekers
- Do not submit your application through the Easy Apply button on LinkedIn. Employers receive between 600 and 800 replies for each job advert on the platform. If you are the right fit for a job, connect to a relevant person in the company on LinkedIn and send them a direct message.
- Make sure you are an exact fit for the job advertised. If you are an HR manager with five years’ experience in retail and the job requires a similar candidate with five years’ experience in consumer, you should apply. But if you have no experience in HR, do not apply for the job.
David Mackenzie, founder of recruitment agency Mackenzie Jones Middle East
Labour dispute
The insured employee may still file an ILOE claim even if a labour dispute is ongoing post termination, but the insurer may suspend or reject payment, until the courts resolve the dispute, especially if the reason for termination is contested. The outcome of the labour court proceedings can directly affect eligibility.
- Abdullah Ishnaneh, Partner, BSA Law
Fighter profiles
Gabrieli Pessanha (Brazil)
Reigning Abu Dhabi World Pro champion in the 95kg division, virtually unbeatable in her weight class. Known for her pressure game but also dangerous with her back on the mat.
Nathiely de Jesus, 23, (Brazil)
Two-time World Pro champion renowned for her aggressive game. She is tall and most feared by her opponents for both her triangles and arm-bar attacks.
Thamara Ferreira, 24, (Brazil)
Since her brown belt days, Ferreira has been dominating the 70kg, in both the World Pro and the Grand Slams. With a very aggressive game.
Samantha Cook, 32, (Britain)
One of the biggest talents coming out of Europe in recent times. She is known for a highly technical game and bringing her A game to the table as always.
Kendall Reusing, 22, (USA)
Another young gun ready to explode in the big leagues. The Californian resident is a powerhouse in the -95kg division. Her duels with Pessanha have been highlights in the Grand Slams.
Martina Gramenius, 32, (Sweden)
Already a two-time Grand Slam champion in the current season. Gramenius won golds in the 70kg, in both in Moscow and Tokyo, to earn a spot in the inaugural Queen of Mats.
The candidates
Dr Ayham Ammora, scientist and business executive
Ali Azeem, business leader
Tony Booth, professor of education
Lord Browne, former BP chief executive
Dr Mohamed El-Erian, economist
Professor Wyn Evans, astrophysicist
Dr Mark Mann, scientist
Gina MIller, anti-Brexit campaigner
Lord Smith, former Cabinet minister
Sandi Toksvig, broadcaster
Company Profile
Name: Thndr
Started: 2019
Co-founders: Ahmad Hammouda and Seif Amr
Sector: FinTech
Headquarters: Egypt
UAE base: Hub71, Abu Dhabi
Current number of staff: More than 150
Funds raised: $22 million
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Terror attacks in Paris, November 13, 2015
- At 9.16pm, three suicide attackers killed one person outside the Atade de France during a foootball match between France and Germany
- At 9.25pm, three attackers opened fire on restaurants and cafes over 20 minutes, killing 39 people
- Shortly after 9.40pm, three other attackers launched a three-hour raid on the Bataclan, in which 1,500 people had gathered to watch a rock concert. In total, 90 people were killed
- Salah Abdeslam, the only survivor of the terrorists, did not directly participate in the attacks, thought to be due to a technical glitch in his suicide vest
- He fled to Belgium and was involved in attacks on Brussels in March 2016. He is serving a life sentence in France
Dust and sand storms compared
Sand storm
- Particle size: Larger, heavier sand grains
- Visibility: Often dramatic with thick "walls" of sand
- Duration: Short-lived, typically localised
- Travel distance: Limited
- Source: Open desert areas with strong winds
Dust storm
- Particle size: Much finer, lightweight particles
- Visibility: Hazy skies but less intense
- Duration: Can linger for days
- Travel distance: Long-range, up to thousands of kilometres
- Source: Can be carried from distant regions
UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
INFO
Turkish Ladies
Various artists, Sony Music Turkey
Director: Laxman Utekar
Cast: Vicky Kaushal, Akshaye Khanna, Diana Penty, Vineet Kumar Singh, Rashmika Mandanna
Rating: 1/5
Dr Afridi's warning signs of digital addiction
Spending an excessive amount of time on the phone.
Neglecting personal, social, or academic responsibilities.
Losing interest in other activities or hobbies that were once enjoyed.
Having withdrawal symptoms like feeling anxious, restless, or upset when the technology is not available.
Experiencing sleep disturbances or changes in sleep patterns.
What are the guidelines?
Under 18 months: Avoid screen time altogether, except for video chatting with family.
Aged 18-24 months: If screens are introduced, it should be high-quality content watched with a caregiver to help the child understand what they are seeing.
Aged 2-5 years: Limit to one-hour per day of high-quality programming, with co-viewing whenever possible.
Aged 6-12 years: Set consistent limits on screen time to ensure it does not interfere with sleep, physical activity, or social interactions.
Teenagers: Encourage a balanced approach – screens should not replace sleep, exercise, or face-to-face socialisation.
Source: American Paediatric Association
F1 2020 calendar
March 15 - Australia, Melbourne; March 22 - Bahrain, Sakhir; April 5 - Vietnam, Hanoi; April 19 - China, Shanghai; May 3 - Netherlands, Zandvoort; May 20 - Spain, Barcelona; May 24 - Monaco, Monaco; June 7 - Azerbaijan, Baku; June 14 - Canada, Montreal; June 28 - France, Le Castellet; July 5 - Austria, Spielberg; July 19 - Great Britain, Silverstone; August 2 - Hungary, Budapest; August 30 - Belgium, Spa; September 6 - Italy, Monza; September 20 - Singapore, Singapore; September 27 - Russia, Sochi; October 11 - Japan, Suzuka; October 25 - United States, Austin; November 1 - Mexico City, Mexico City; November 15 - Brazil, Sao Paulo; November 29 - Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi.
Zayed Sustainability Prize
Ziina users can donate to relief efforts in Beirut
Ziina users will be able to use the app to help relief efforts in Beirut, which has been left reeling after an August blast caused an estimated $15 billion in damage and left thousands homeless. Ziina has partnered with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees to raise money for the Lebanese capital, co-founder Faisal Toukan says. “As of October 1, the UNHCR has the first certified badge on Ziina and is automatically part of user's top friends' list during this campaign. Users can now donate any amount to the Beirut relief with two clicks. The money raised will go towards rebuilding houses for the families that were impacted by the explosion.”
More from Neighbourhood Watch:
What is 'Soft Power'?
Soft power was first mentioned in 1990 by former US Defence Secretary Joseph Nye.
He believed that there were alternative ways of cultivating support from other countries, instead of achieving goals using military strength.
Soft power is, at its root, the ability to convince other states to do what you want without force.
This is traditionally achieved by proving that you share morals and values.
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IF YOU GO
The flights
FlyDubai flies direct from Dubai to Skopje in five hours from Dh1,314 return including taxes. Hourly buses from Skopje to Ohrid take three hours.
The tours
English-speaking guided tours of Ohrid town and the surrounding area are organised by Cultura 365; these cost €90 (Dh386) for a one-day trip including driver and guide and €100 a day (Dh429) for two people.
The hotels
Villa St Sofija in the old town of Ohrid, twin room from $54 (Dh198) a night.
St Naum Monastery, on the lake 30km south of Ohrid town, has updated its pilgrims' quarters into a modern 3-star hotel, with rooms overlooking the monastery courtyard and lake. Double room from $60 (Dh 220) a night.
Defending champions
World Series: South Africa
Women’s World Series: Australia
Gulf Men’s League: Dubai Exiles
Gulf Men’s Social: Mediclinic Barrelhouse Warriors
Gulf Vets: Jebel Ali Dragons Veterans
Gulf Women: Dubai Sports City Eagles
Gulf Under 19: British School Al Khubairat
Gulf Under 19 Girls: Dubai Exiles
UAE National Schools: Al Safa School
International Invitational: Speranza 22
International Vets: Joining Jack
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RESULT
Shabab Al Ahli Dubai 0 Al Ain 6
Al Ain: Caio (5', 73'), El Shahat (10'), Berg (65'), Khalil (83'), Al Ahbabi (90' 2)
Specs
Engine: 51.5kW electric motor
Range: 400km
Power: 134bhp
Torque: 175Nm
Price: From Dh98,800
Available: Now
Healthy tips to remember
Here, Dr Mohamed El Abiary, paediatric consultant at Al Zahra Hospital Dubai, shares some advice for parents whose children are fasting during the holy month of Ramadan:
Gradual fasting and golden points - For children under the age of 10, follow a step-by-step approach to fasting and don't push them beyond their limits. Start with a few hours fasting a day and increase it to a half fast and full fast when the child is ready. Every individual's ability varies as per the age and personal readiness. You could introduce a points system that awards the child and offers them encouragement when they make progress with the amount of hours they fast
Why fast? - Explain to your child why they are fasting. By shedding light on the importance of abstaining from food and drink, children may feel more encouraged to give it there all during the observance period. It is also a good opportunity to teach children about controlling urges, doing good for others and instilling healthy food habits
Sleep and suhoor - A child needs adequate sleep every night - at least eight hours. Make sure to set a routine early bedtime so he/she has sufficient time to wake up for suhoor, which is an essential meal at the beginning of the day
Good diet - Nutritious food is crucial to ensuring a healthy Ramadan for children. They must refrain from eating too much junk food as well as canned goods and snacks and drinks high in sugar. Foods that are rich in nutrients, vitamins and proteins, like fruits, fresh meats and vegetables, make for a good balanced diet
GAC GS8 Specs
Engine: 2.0-litre 4cyl turbo
Power: 248hp at 5,200rpm
Torque: 400Nm at 1,750-4,000rpm
Transmission: 8-speed auto
Fuel consumption: 9.1L/100km
On sale: Now
Price: From Dh149,900
Cultural fiesta
What: The Al Burda Festival
When: November 14 (from 10am)
Where: Warehouse421, Abu Dhabi
The Al Burda Festival is a celebration of Islamic art and culture, featuring talks, performances and exhibitions. Organised by the Ministry of Culture and Knowledge Development, this one-day event opens with a session on the future of Islamic art. With this in mind, it is followed by a number of workshops and “masterclass” sessions in everything from calligraphy and typography to geometry and the origins of Islamic design. There will also be discussions on subjects including ‘Who is the Audience for Islamic Art?’ and ‘New Markets for Islamic Design.’ A live performance from Kuwaiti guitarist Yousif Yaseen should be one of the highlights of the day.
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