#1967 European Cup

[stairnaheireann]

#OTD in 1967 – Celtic Football Club become the first Scottish and northern European team to win the European Cup, beating Inter 2-1 in the Estádio Nacional, in Lisbon, Portugal.

An estimated crowd of 70,000 crammed into the Estádio Nacional near Lisbon, Portugal to witness the Glasgow side lift the greatest prize in club football, defeating Inter Milan 2–1. As the final whistle blew, euphoric Celtic fans poured onto the pitch to celebrate their team’s victory, many whooping with joy and waving banners. Jock Stein, said: “There is not a prouder man on God’s Earth than me…

[justforbooks]

Franz Beckenbauer, who has died aged 78, was widely regarded as the best footballer Germany has ever produced. A pre-eminent figure in the world game after the second world war, he was a phenomenally innovative player who captained West Germany to a World Cup win in 1974 and later managed his country to two consecutive World Cup finals, winning the second of them in 1990 in Rome.

As a club manager he added a Bundesliga title and a Uefa Cup win to his World Cup victory at international level and as a player he won a World Cup, a European Championship, three European Cups and five Bundesliga titles in Germany. However, more than his capacity for winning, it was the elegant, intelligent nature of his play that attracted such admiration all over the world.

While he was still a teenager at Bayern Munich, Beckenbauer had become the virtual inventor of what came to be called “total football”. Watching the Milan team Internazionale on television, he was impressed by the attacking forays of their big left-back, Giacinto Facchetti. He asked himself why a defender might not attack from a central role as well as from the flanks, and thus became Bayern’s attacking libero. It was a role that became the cornerstone of the total football practised by Bayern and their great Dutch rivals, Ajax, in the early 1970s.

Captained by Beckenbauer – a tall, erect figure always ready to sweep out of defence – Bayern at first played second fiddle to Ajax, but eventually emulated them by winning the European Cup three times in a row, between 1974 and 1976. Before that sequence Beckenbauer had already captained an outstanding West Germany team to the European Championship title in 1972, beating the Soviet Union 3-0 in the final. Two years later he led his country to victory in the 1974 World Cup on German soil, defeating the Netherlands 2-1. He played 103 times for West Germany and appeared in 427 league matches for Bayern.

Franz was born to Antonie (nee Huphauf) and Franz Sr, a postal worker in the Munich suburb of Giesing, near the stadium where he would make his name. By the age of eight he was already regarded as a technically accomplished player, even in a city where footballers and football proliferated. Munich 1860 was the club he favoured; Bayern Munich, where he would later excel, were small beer at the time; an upstart by comparison.

However, Munich 1860’s loss would be Bayern’s gain. In 1958 he was playing for the junior team of a little local club, SC 1906, which actually closed that year, and expected to join 1860. “But in the last game we played for SC 1906 against 1860,” he related, “a half-back gave me a slap. That was enough for me. 1860 would never get me. And so Bayern took me into its ranks.” Beckenbauer was, with rare exceptions, always a sporting player, who declared that he would rather be fouled and leave the field than commit a foul himself.

He made his debut for Bayern Munich in 1964 – when they were in the German second division – and in his first season helped them gain promotion to the Bundesliga.

Thereafter Bayern rapidly became a major force both at home and in Europe, winning the German Cup in 1966–67 and the European Cup Winners’ Cup in 1967 (against Rangers). Beckenbauer was made team captain for the 1968–69 season and led the club to its first league title that year, subsequently winning three league championships in a row from 1972 to 1974 and that hat-trick of European Cup wins in 1974-76.

Under his leadership (he was nicknamed the Kaiser for his commanding, almost imperious presence) the Bayern team of that era, which also featured greats such as the goalkeeper Sepp Maier and the centre-forward Gerd Müller, established itself as one of the most accomplished club sides of all time.

Beckenbauer’s first game for the national team, at the age of 21 in 1965, had come even before Bayern’s dramatic rise to prominence. He was the star member of the West Germany side in the 1966 World Cup finals, where they were runners-up in the Wembley final to England, and again in the 1970 finals in Mexico, where they finished in third place.

Helmut Schön, the tall, gentle West Germany team manager who was almost a father figure to Beckenbauer, for many years refused to let him play the libero role for his country. When he finally relented in 1974, West Germany won the competition and Beckenbauer lifted the trophy as captain.

All seemed set fair for a fourth World Cup campaign for Beckenbauer in Argentina in 1978, but to general surprise, and aged only 31, he retired from international football in 1977 to switch to play for New York Cosmos in the North American Soccer League.

It was an unusual move after almost 15 years at the highest level of the game with Bayern, but the contract was lucrative and enormous crowds came to see him play with Pelé and other stars at the Giants Stadium, New Jersey.

In his four seasons with the Cosmos the team won the national Soccer Bowl on three occasions (1977, 1978 and 1980). “I’ve done everything in my life – championships for Bayern Munich and the World Cup for Germany – but the New York Cosmos was the best time of my life,” he said. “At Munich it was all German players; at the Cosmos it was 14 nationalities and Pelé.”

He returned to Germany to play for Hamburg (1980-82), where he picked up another Bundesliga winners’ medal at the end of the 1981-82 season before going back to the US for one final campaign with the Cosmos in 1983 and then retiring. In his career in domestic leagues he had made 587 appearances and scored 81 goals.

When Beckenbauer retired he seemed to have no ambition to go into management, so it was a surprise that in 1984 he agreed to manage West Germany in succession to Jupp Derwall. Never before had a West Germany manager been appointed who had not come through the exhaustive qualifying programme of the German football association, one which involved not only the passing of examinations but the running of minor clubs.

In appointing Beckenbauer, the German authorities were abandoning firm principle in the hope that his immense prestige and authority would prevail; and they were not disappointed.

The team he inherited was in the doldrums, yet at the 1986 Mexico World Cup, suitably inspired, they reached a final in which they were plainly inferior to an Argentina team that went into a 2-0 lead, only for the Germans to fight back, catch them up, and then lose 3-2. Four years later, in a grisly final in Rome, Germany had their revenge, beating Argentina 1-0 with a penalty by Andreas Brehme.

Shortly afterwards Beckenbauer resigned his position to became technical director of the French club Marseille on a two-year contract worth nearly £500,000, taking a German physical trainer with him. But for once his writ did not run. The French players were unhappy with the training regime and Beckenbauer withdrew after just four months.

He was far happier when he returned to Bayern Munich to serve as manager over two short spells – in 1993-94 and in 1996 – during which time he collected two further honours, the Bundesliga title in 1994 and the Uefa Cup in 1996. Thereafter he was president of the club for two years.

In 1998 he became vice-president of the German football association and at the end of the 90s headed the successful bid by Germany to host the 2006 World Cup, chairing the subsequent organising committee. He was named honorary president of Bayern Munich in 2009, a position he held until his death.

His son, Thomas, with Ingrid Grönke was born in 1963. In 1966 he married Brigitte Wittmann. They had two sons, Michael and Stephan. Following their divorce in 1990, he married Sybille Weimer; they divorced in 2004. With his third wife, Heidi Burmester, he had two children, Noel and Francesca. Stephan, who was also a footballer and played for Bayern Munich, died in 2015. Franz leaves Heidi and his four other children.

🔔 Franz Anton Beckenbauer, footballer, born 11 September 1945; died 7 January 2024

Daily inspiration. Discover more photos at Just for Books…?

[scotianostra]

Scottish Golfer Bernard Gallacher was born on February 9th 1949.

75 year old Bernard Gallacher is a battle-hardened player from Bathgate, and was the original young wonder of the PGA European Tour, he won the 1967 Scottish Amateur Open Stroke Play Championship and turned professional the same year, winning the PGA Championship just two years after turning professional. Thirteen more titles followed in between the demands of Bernard’s other job as the club professional at Wentworth.

Bernard Gallacher played in every Ryder Cup from 1969-83. In the late ‘80’s he helped Tony Jacklin before taking over the captaincy in 1991. Unlucky in his first year, Bernard won the Cup as Captain on his third attempt. His calm and collected leadership was vital to the European team’s stunning victory at Oak Hill in New York State.

Following a quarter of a century as Club Professional, Bernard Gallacher left Wentworth at the end of 1996. In 1997, he spent more time with his family and played more golf. Bernard also commentated on the Ryder Cup for Sky and worked with various blue chip companies, particularly on their corporate entertainment where – following his time at Wentworth – he is regarded as a “golf day specialist”.

Bernard turned fifty in 1999 and has played on the European Seniors Tour ever since. Well apart from some time out having survived a sudden cardiac arrest, and having to be resuscitated 3 times! He thought he would never be able to play the game he loves again, but was back on the course 9 months later.

With a long and prestigious career, Bernard has had the opportunity to work with various blue chip companies, particularly on their corporate entertainment. Widely regarded as a “golf day specialist”, an accomplished speaker, and also as a leading media commentator for BBC Radio Five Live, he now works as an anecdotal sports speaker appearing at corporate and club events as well as specialist after dinner speaker events.

Bernard is obviously very well thought of down at Wentworth Golf Club, a statue of the Scotsman is placed at first tee at West Course in Surrey, England.

One of his daughters is the lovely TV presenter Kirsty Gallacher, the other is Laura Gallacher, now Laura Brand after she married the controversial TV and radio presenter ARussel Brand, she is a Blogger, author and illustrator.

[brookstonalmanac]

Events 12.19 (after 1950)

1956 – Irish-born physician John Bodkin Adams is arrested in connection with the suspicious deaths of more than 160 patients. Eventually he is convicted only of minor charges. 1961 – India annexes Daman and Diu, part of Portuguese India. 1967 – Harold Holt, the Prime Minister of Australia, is officially presumed dead. 1972 – Apollo program: The last crewed lunar flight, Apollo 17, carrying Eugene Cernan, Ronald Evans, and Harrison Schmitt, returns to Earth. 1974 – Nelson Rockefeller is sworn in as Vice President of the United States under President Gerald Ford under the provisions of the Twenty-fifth Amendment to the United States Constitution. 1977 – The Ms  5.8 Bob–Tangol earthquake strikes Kerman Province in Iran, destroying villages and killing 665 people. 1981 – Sixteen lives are lost when the Penlee lifeboat goes to the aid of the stricken coaster Union Star in heavy seas. 1983 – The original FIFA World Cup trophy, the Jules Rimet Trophy, is stolen from the headquarters of the Brazilian Football Confederation in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. 1984 – The Sino-British Joint Declaration, stating that China would resume the exercise of sovereignty over Hong Kong and the United Kingdom would restore Hong Kong to China with effect from July 1, 1997, is signed in Beijing by Deng Xiaoping and Margaret Thatcher. 1985 – Aeroflot Flight 101/435 is hijacked to China by its first officer. 1986 – Mikhail Gorbachev, leader of the Soviet Union, releases Andrei Sakharov and his wife from exile in Gorky. 1995 – The United States Government restores federal recognition to the Nottawaseppi Huron Band of Potawatomi Native American tribe. 1997 – SilkAir Flight 185 crashes into the Musi River, near Palembang in Indonesia, killing 104. 1998 – President Bill Clinton is impeached by the United States House of Representatives, becoming the second president of the United States to be impeached. 1999 – Space Shuttle Discovery is launched on STS-103, the third Hubble Space Telescope servicing mission. 2000 – The Leninist Guerrilla Units wing of the Communist Labour Party of Turkey/Leninist attack a Nationalist Movement Party office in Istanbul, Turkey, killing one person and injuring three. 2001 – A record high barometric pressure of 1,085.6 hectopascals (32.06 inHg) is recorded at Tosontsengel, Khövsgöl, Mongolia. 2001 – Argentine economic crisis: December riots: Riots erupt in Buenos Aires, Argentina. 2005 – Chalk's Ocean Airways Flight 101 crashes into the Government Cut channel immediately after takeoff from Miami Seaplane Base, killing 20. 2012 – Park Geun-hye is elected the first female president of South Korea. 2013 – Spacecraft Gaia is launched by the European Space Agency. 2016 – Russian ambassador to Turkey Andrei Karlov is assassinated while at an art exhibition in Ankara. The assassin, Mevlüt Mert Altıntaş, is shot and killed by a Turkish guard. 2016 – A vehicular attack in Berlin, Germany, kills and injures multiple people at a Christmas market.

[thekitmanuk]

Manchester United x George Best 1968 European Cup Final Collection

Football kit news from England as a special Manchester United x George Best 1968 European Cup Final collection made by Adidas has been released. Manchester United x George Best 1968 European Cup Final Collection The new 1967-68 Manchester United European Cup Final collection celebrates arguably the club’s greatest ever player, George Best. Manchester United x George Best 1968 European Cup…

[hannahsmiths]

"ON OUR WAY TO LISBON ON 21 SEP 2024

Glasgow Celtic’s 1967 European Cup win is one of the great sporting legends of all time.

This amazing feat has been turned into a spectacular two-man play called ‘On our way to Lisbon’ by Patrick Prior, and produced by the theatre company Isosceles.Two fans recreate the epic campaign that saw Jock Stein’s young team sweep aside the best that Europe had to offer ."

.

#letsattendeventstogether

#meetup

#joinus

#Europeancup

[fifaworldcup2026tickets]

Belgium FIFA World Cup: Belgium's Current Coach and best players for FIFA 2026

The Belgium national football team, representing Belgium in men's international football since their inaugural match in 1904, is overseen globally by FIFA and in Europe by UEFA, both of which were co-founded by the Royal Belgian Football Association. Belgium has experienced periods of consistent international presence from 1920 to 1938, 1982 to 2002, and from 2014 onwards, interspersed with less successful qualification attempts.

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The majority of Belgium's home games take place at the King Baudouin Stadium in Brussels. The national team has competed in fourteen FIFA World Cups, six UEFA European Championships, and three Olympic football tournaments, notably winning the 1920 Summer Olympics. Belgium's notable achievements include victories over reigning world champions such as West Germany, Brazil, Argentina, and France between 1954 and 2002.

Belgium maintains fierce football rivalries with the Netherlands and France, having faced both teams almost annually from 1905 to 1967. Known as the Red Devils since 1906, their fan club is named "1895". During the career of forward Paul Van Himst, Belgium secured third place as hosts at UEFA Euro 1972.  

The second golden era, under managers Marc Wilmots and later Roberto Martínez in the 2010s, saw Belgium reach the pinnacle of the FIFA World Ranking for the first time in November 2015 and finish third at the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Notably, Belgium is the only national team to top the FIFA rankings without winning a World Cup or continental trophy, distinguishing them in the world of football.

Belgium National Football Team Captain: Kevin De Bruyne

Following Belgium's unexpected early departure from the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, Eden Hazard announced his retirement from international football. This pivotal moment also marked the end of Roberto Martinez's tenure as the team's coach. Stepping into the role of head coach, Domenico Tedesco faced the significant task of appointing a new leader for the Belgian squad.

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De Bruyne's appointment as captain is a testament to his remarkable skills, leadership qualities, and commitment to the national team. Known for his vision, creativity, and precision on the field, De Bruyne has been a pivotal figure in both his club and national teams. His ability to influence games and inspire his teammates makes him a natural choice to lead Belgium as they strive for success in upcoming tournaments.

Under Tedesco’s guidance, and with De Bruyne at the helm, Belgium aims to build on their past performances and achieve new heights. The combination of Tedesco's fresh strategic approach and De Bruyne's on-field leadership is expected to rejuvenate the team, providing a solid foundation for their future endeavors. The first, from the 1980s to the early 1990s, saw them as runners-up at UEFA Euro 1980 and fourth at the 1986 FIFA World Cup.

As Belgium gears up for the Euro 2024 qualifiers, fans and pundits alike are eager to see how De Bruyne's captaincy will shape the team's performance. With his extensive experience and unwavering dedication, Kevin De Bruyne is poised to lead the Red Devils with distinction, steering them towards a promising future on the international stage.

Kevin De Bruyne: Belgium's Shining Star’s Player

Kevin De Bruyne stands out as one of the last superstars of Belgium's Golden Generation. While some may argue that the Golden Generation didn't fully meet expectations, De Bruyne's career has been nothing short of exceptional. Since his return to English football in 2015, following a transfer worth over £50 million. To Manchester City, De Bruyne has more than lived up to his potential.

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The Belgium midfielder has established himself as one of the Premier League's most iconic players of the past decade. His vision, passing accuracy, and ability to control the tempo game. Have made him a key player for both his club and the national team. De Bruyne's performances have consistently been of the highest standard, demonstrating his skill and determination on the field.

De Bruyne’s influence extends beyond his technical abilities; his leadership. And focus has been crucial in Manchester City's successes in recent years. Whether orchestrating attacks or scoring crucial goals, he has been at the heart of many memorable moments. His contributions have not only helped City clinch numerous titles. But also earned him individual accolades, reinforcing his status as one of football's elite.

Despite the pressure and high expectations, De Bruyne remains laser-focused and continues to perform at the top of his game. His journey from a promising talent to a footballing legend exemplifies hard work, dedication, and passion for the sport. As he continues to dazzle on the pitch, fans and critics alike recognize Kevin De Bruyne. As a true superstar, embodying the pinnacle of Belgian football excellence.

Belgium National Football Team Manager: Domenico Tedesco

Domenico Tedesco was removed as Belgium's manager in February 2023, succeeding Roberto Martinez. This appointment marked his first foray into international management, and he has had a promising start. Born in Italy and raised in Germany, Tedesco has brought a fresh perspective. To the Belgian national team, continuing to build on his previous successes.

Before taking charge of Belgium, Tedesco made a name for himself in club football. Most notably leading RB Leipzig to victory in the German Cup in 2022. His tactical penetration and ability to inspire players were key factors in that triumph. And he has carried those strengths into his new role with the Red Devils.

Under Tedesco’s leadership, Belgium has maintained an unbeaten record so far. His tenure has been categorized by a blend of discipline defense and dynamic attacking play. Energizing the team's performance and restoring confidence among the players and fans alike. Tedesco's approach has been well-receive, with his strategic planning and adaptability earning praise.

Tedesco's multicultural background and diverse footballing experiences have given him. A unique edge in managing an internationally renowned team like Belgium. As Tedesco continues to chief Belgium, the football world watches with keen attention. His initial success hints at a bright future for the Red Devils under his guidance. With his proven track record and innovative tactics, Domenico Tedesco is poise to make an important impact. On Belgian football, steering the team towards new heights in international competitions.

For fans eager to attend FIFA 2026 matches, a wide selection of FIFA World Cup 2026 tickets awaits at Eticketing.co. Our platform collaborates with the most reputable sellers on the secondary market. Ensuring access to top-quality ticket listings from across the web. Explore our Football World Cup selection to discover the most affordable deals available today!

[f0xd13-blog]

. He was the European Cup top scorer in 1964–65, 1965–66 and 1967–68. He also won the Bola de Prata for the Primeira Liga top scorer a record seven times. He was the first ever player to win the European Golden Boot, in 1968, a feat he replicated in 1973

[xtruss]

Zagallo! 1931 — 2024

Cartoon By Carlos Latuff

Mário Jorge Lobo Zagallo (9 August 1931 – 5 January 2024) was a Brazilian Professional Football Player, Coordinator and Manager, Who Played as a Forward.

Zagallo holds the record for World Cup titles in general with four titles in total. He also holds the record for World Cup finals with six participations. He was the first person to win the FIFA World Cup as both a manager and as a player, winning the competition in 1958 and 1962 as a player and in 1970 as Manager. In addition, he won the 1994 FIFA World Cup as Assistant Manager. Zagallo also coached Brazil in 1974 (Finishing Fourth) and in 1998 (Finishing as Runners-up) and was a technical assistant in 2006. He was the first of three men, along with Germany's Franz Beckenbauer and France's Didier Deschamps to have won the World Cup as a player and as a manager, and the only one who had done it more than twice.

In 1992, Zagallo received the FIFA Order of Merit, the highest honour awarded by FIFA, for his contributions to football. He was named the 9th Greatest Manager of All Time by World Soccer Magazine in 2013. On 5 January 2024, Zagallo died at the age of 92. He was the last surviving Brazilian player who participated in the 1958 World Cup final.

Zagallo with Pelé in 1970 (Left)! Zagallo During His Playing Career (Right)!

Zagallo was born in Atalaia in the northeastern state of Alagoas on 9 August 1931. As a young man, he worked as a soldier and was deployed at the Maracanã Stadium when Uruguay defeated Brazil in the 1950 World Cup final.

Zagallo started his football career with América in 1948, and he later played for Flamengo and Botafogo. Zagallo won the World Cup as a player with Brazil in 1958 and 1962. At the time of the 1958 tournament, Zagallo was a Flamengo player, but by the 1962 event, he was with Botafogo. Zagallo won a total of 33 caps for Brazil between 1958 and 1964.

Managerial Life

Zagallo started his managerial career at Botafogo, the club he had finished his career with, managing them alongside the Brazil national team. Zagallo won the World Cup as a manager in 1970, and as assistant coach in 1994, both with Brazil. He was the first person to win the World Cup both as a player and as a manager. Winning the World Cup in 1970 at the age of 38, he is also the second youngest coach to win a World Cup, after Alberto Suppici, who won aged 31 with Uruguay in 1930.

Zagallo's Brazil team in 1970 played a 4–2–3–1 formation. The team prepared for nearly three months for the tournament, acclimatising to the heat and altitude of the Mexican summer. Zagallo said that the team won most of their games in the second half, where they scored 12 of their 19 goals as opponents tired.

At the 1974 FIFA World Cup in West Germany, Zagallo was disadvantaged by the international retirement of Pelé four years earlier, as well as injuries to Tostão and Carlos Alberto Torres, meaning that only two starting players from the 1970 final were in the squad. Additionally, the team had a lack of competitive practice due to the shelving of the Copa América between 1967 and 1975. In response to Brazil being eliminated by overly physical European sides in 1954 and 1966, Zagallo chose to play in an equally aggressive way. Brazil narrowly made it through the first group stage by one goal in goal difference over Scotland, and missed out on the final after a 2–0 loss to the Netherlands, in which Luís Pereira was sent off for a foul on Johan Neeskens. Poland then defeated Brazil in the third-place playoff.

In 1989, Zagallo was hired by the United Arab Emirates for their qualification campaign for the 1990 FIFA World Cup. He led the amateurs to an unexpected first qualification to the tournament, but left for Vasco da Gama days before the World Cup began and was replaced by Carlos Alberto Parreira.

In November 2002, Zagallo came out of retirement to coach Brazil again, following Luiz Felipe Scolari's exit after winning that year's World Cup. On 20 November, in his only game, the team won 3–2 in a friendly away to South Korea.

Personal Life

Zagallo married Alcina de Castro on 13 January 1955 at the Church of Capuchins in Rio de Janeiro. They remained together until de Castro's death on 5 November 2012.[18] Mário and Alcina had four children. He was a practicing Catholic.

Zagallo's surname was spelled Zagalo for most of his career, including by himself, until he told a reporter in the 1990s that his surname on his birth certificate was Zagallo. He was also the only Brazilian World Cup-winning forward to be known by his surname.

In July 2022, Zagallo was admitted to hospital with a respiratory infection. In August 2023, he was hospitalized for 22 days due to a urinary infection. Following a brief hospitalization in Rio de Janeiro, He Died on 5 January 2024 due to Multiple Organ Failure, resulting from the exacerbation of various pre-existing comorbidities. Zagallo was aged 92.

Zagallo in 2008

Nicknames

Zagallo was nicknamed The Professor by his players throughout his coaching career, due to his tactical awareness and commanding presence on the bench. He was also nicknamed Velho Lobo ("Old Wolf") due to his surname "Lobo", which means "Wolf".

[wikiuntamed]

Top 5 @Wikipedia pages from yesterday: Tuesday, 12th December 2023

Welcome, 환영 (hwanyeong), fáilte, bun venit 🤗 What were the top pages visited on @Wikipedia (12th December 2023) 🏆🌟🔥?

1️⃣: Tommy DeVito (American football) "Thomas N. DeVito (born August 7, 1998) is an American football quarterback for the New York Giants of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football at Syracuse before transferring to Illinois...."

Image licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0? by TigerNet.com

2️⃣: Animal (2023 film) "Animal is a 2023 Indian Hindi-language action drama film directed and edited by Sandeep Reddy Vanga, who also co-wrote the screenplay with Pranay Reddy Vanga and Saurabh Gupta. The film is produced by Bhushan Kumar, Krishan Kumar, Murad Khetani and Pranay Reddy Vanga under T-Series Films, Bhadrakali..."

3️⃣: Leave the World Behind (film) "Leave the World Behind is a 2023 American apocalyptic psychological thriller film produced, written and directed by Sam Esmail. It is based on the 2020 novel of the same name by Rumaan Alam. The film stars Julia Roberts, Mahershala Ali, Ethan Hawke, Myha'la, and Kevin Bacon as they attempt to make..."

4️⃣: Bhajan Lal Sharma "Bhajan Lal Sharma (born 15 December 1967) is an Indian politician designated to take charge as the 14th Chief Minister of Rajasthan with Diya Kumari and Prem Chand Bairwa as deputy since December 2023. He is a member of the 16th Rajasthan Legislative Assembly, representing the Sanganer constituency...."

Image licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0? by Bhajan Lal Sharma

5️⃣: UEFA Champions League "The UEFA Champions League (previously known as the European Cup and mostly abbreviated worldwide as the UCL) is an annual club association football competition organised by the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) and contested by top-division European clubs, deciding the competition..."

[reasoningdaily]

A framed photograph of the Cleveland Summit overlooks the desk of Allen Hopkins as he logs on at work each day. It records the 1967 meeting between Black athletes – Muhammad Ali, Bill Russell, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar among them – and politicians to consider and eventually support Ali’s refusal to be drafted into the Vietnam war. That support sent a message – the fight for civil rights is a collective effort.

“When a Black player walks up to take a penalty, I can’t even watch,” says Hopkins, announced in July as the first executive director for Black Players for Change, a US-based collective of athletes, coaches, and staff working within Major League Soccer. “If he misses that penalty he is going to get his socials crushed. I can’t watch. I just never want a Black player to take a penalty … if he misses …”

He pauses as he tries to explain the complex balance between the hopes of the past, the reality of the present, and a collective dream for the future when it comes to fighting racism in soccer.

“But clearly, I actually do want the Black player to take the first penalty. Or the fifth penalty. Or be like Inter Miami goalkeeper Drake Callender and take a penalty [in a shootout] and then make the save for the next one [in the Leagues Cup final] and then just walk off.”

Black Players for Change was launched during the summer of 2020: Covid lockdowns met protests over blatantly racist killings. Say their names: Breonna Taylor, Ahmaud Arbery, George Floyd. MLS players wanted to say the names of those killed too and make a public stand for racial justice. Black Players for Change was born that July with an eight minute 46-second silent protest – sanctioned by MLS – before an Orlando City-Inter Miami match. It was a powerful moment.

Three summers on Black Players for Change provides a voice for athletes, advocating for soccer resources in underserved communities, lobbying for restorative justice and education when racism surfaces within the game. There is also a plan to take its mission internationally.

“The world has changed,” says Hopkins. “The Black player has ascended … Even in the US, if you look at player awards for 2022, they are all Black: Tyler Adams, Sophie Smith, Alyssa Thompson, Yunus Musah.”

Hopkins has a decades-long history within US soccer. He was as match announcer on Fox Sports’ fledgling coverage of European leagues before joining ESPN. He was an adviser to Jürgen Klinsmann during the German’s reign as head coach of the US men’s national team and has had several roles within Major League Soccer.

“When I worked for US Soccer with the national team I was one of one,” he says. “I can show you pictures at the White House where – outside of the players – I am the only Black person. We won the Gold Cup and – outside of the players – I am the only Black person there. I have a photo from college where we are lifting up a trophy that we won. I am the only Black person.”

Hopkins says he is never surprised when overt racism rears its head within the sport. It is part of his lived experience. When New York Red Bulls forward Dante Vanzeir was banned for making a racist comment during an MLS match against San Jose Earthquakes, Hopkins says the gamechanger was that multiple people heard what was said and spoke up. That hasn’t always been the case.

“Often it is he said-he said,” Hopkins says. “It happened to me when I played but I don’t think I had a teammate within earshot or anyone able to support me in that moment. The first time it happened to me personally I was shocked and couldn’t believe it because soccer was the one place it didn’t happen.”

So how to respond in the moment?

“My parents grew up in the Jim Crow south – rural Mississippi,” Hopkins says. “So I was raised by folks who were completely informed by that experience. The way they raised me was to take a very conservative safety-first path. Take care of yourself. These were the rules of the road.”

The Vanzeir incident, however, was managed by MLS and the players’ association in a way that Hopkins and Black Players for Change see as a meaningful way forward.

“We are not a cancel culture organization,” Hopkins says. “We were very happy that Vanzeir was part of a restorative justice conversation. Our members are the most gracious, kind, and empathic group of athletes I have ever been around. When issues have come up within MLS, where players have said racial things, it has been about how can we restore? How can we heal? How can we educate?”

But, he adds: “Not everything is perfect.”

Hopkins is referring to former DC United player Taxi Fountas whose contract with MLS was terminated by mutual agreement in August. Fountas had been placed on administrative leave by MLS in July after the league determined that allegations he used “prohibited and discriminatory language against another player” were credible. The “other player” he made racist comments to was a teammate. Time for restorative justice? Not exactly.

That July incident was a second offense and came just nine months after Fountas was alleged to have made racist comments towards Damion Lowe, who is Black, that were overheard by his Inter Miami teammate Aimé Mabika. That allegation could not be corroborated and Fountas received no sanction.

“We had an opportunity to give our feedback to MLS and the players’ association,” Hopkins says of the Fountas case. “We were clear that, no matter who he is, a player is not above [sanctions]. Having Fountas removed from the league and having MLS say why he was removed says a lot. It is also a wake up call for everyone else in the ecosystem and the community that that is the new bar now.”skip past newsletter promotion

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Fountas now plays for Trabzonspor in Turkey’s SuperLig.

“The reality is that Fountas was able to escape severe punishment the first time,” Hopkins says. “We want to try and help people be better and if they don’t want to be better then it’s time for Maya Angelou – when people tell you who they are, believe them the first time.”

While Black Players for Change has origins in the highest level of the sport it is also conscious of its roots. The organization has partnered with the US Soccer Foundation to build fields in underserved neighborhoods across the US, and aims to support Black coaches across all levels of the game while building stronger connections with its female counterpart the Black Women’s Player Collective and the Black Players Alliance, which represents players within the United Soccer League.

“The conversation we need to have is ‘How do we really bring the game to the Black community?’ Not Afro Latino. Not Afro Caribbean. Not African. Not African European, but the Black community overall. We can do a better job of that. We also want to ensure that putting in a new field in a city is not just a real estate play and cutting ribbons [for politicians]. We need to make sure that the next wave is creating communities – making it easy for our [professional] players to turn up and hang out and nutmeg little kids or for a facility to be used as a community center where people can hold their own events and do foundational work.”

Black Players for Change also sees a big window for global leadership tackling racism within the sport. The organization is currently discussing opportunities to lead education and intercultural awareness training with top-tier leagues and clubs in Europe.

“We have a lot of ground to cover just to get to a place where our default settings are humanity and empathy and understanding,” Hopkins says. “We can do it. I know it is ambitious but I see this thread through Fifa, Uefa, La Liga, the Bundesliga, Liga MX and MLS.”

Hopkins understands you have to follow the money and for big business – which top-top tier leagues most definitely are – not all publicity is good publicity.

“There are certain things in corporate America – the Fortune 50, 100, 500 – that you can’t be,” Hopkins says. “You can’t be homophobic and you can’t be racist. There is an element of brand protection and shareholder protection that goes into how businesses approach these issues and that is OK. We have to start somewhere. But dollars also means resources and having resources means having people to educate and to lead, and having more diverse candidates in senior positions.”

With the Cleveland Summit poster looking over his shoulder as he goes about his daily work, Hopkins has set a high bar for what he thinks Black Players for Change can achieve.

“We can eradicate racism in the context of sport,” he says.

What? Really? That’s some dream, surely?

“It’s not as Pollyanna as it sounds,” he says. “You can legislate, you can regulate, you can educate, you can train. We can get racism out of soccer and that should be our goal. With intentionality, it can be like a polio vaccine. The reality is that no one does activism like African Americans because that is just what we do. And no one does sports activism like Black athletes. That should be leveraged.”

[cacuocfrance98]

Những điều cần biết về câu lạc bộ Real Madrid 

Bên cạnh những câu lạc bộ nổi tiếng được nhắc đến thường xuyên như Bayern hay Liverpool. Thì trong số đó câu lạc bộ Real Madrid cũng là một cái tên nổi tiếng được nhiều người hâm mộ trên thế giới biết đến. Vậy hãy cùng France98 khám phá về đội bóng này qua bài viết này nhé. 

Giới thiệu chung về CLB Real Madrid

Real Madrid Club de Fútbol, thường được gọi là Real Madrid hoặc viết tắt là "Los Blancos", là một câu lạc bộ bóng đá hàng đầu tại Tây Ban Nha và toàn cầu. Đây là một trong những câu lạc bộ nổi tiếng và thành công nhất trong lịch sử bóng đá thế giới. Dưới đây là một số thông tin chung về CLB Real Madrid:

Lịch sử và Ngày thành lập: Real Madrid được thành lập vào ngày 6 tháng 3 năm 1902 bởi một nhóm các cầu thủ và người yêu thích bóng đá tại Madrid, Tây Ban Nha.

Sân nhà: Real Madrid thi đấu tại sân vận động Santiago Bernabéu, một trong những sân vận động nổi tiếng và hùng vĩ tại châu Âu. Sức chứa của sân là khoảng 81.000 chỗ ngồi.

Màu sắc và biểu tượng: Real Madrid mặc áo trắng kinh điển trong các trận đấu, và biểu tượng của câu lạc bộ là một ngôi sao ba cạnh màu trắng trên nền màu tím. Biểu tượng này thể hiện niềm tự hào và tinh thần của câu lạc bộ.

Thành tích và danh hiệu: Real Madrid là một trong những câu lạc bộ thành công nhất trong lịch sử bóng đá. Họ đã giành được nhiều danh hiệu quốc tế và trong nước, bao gồm 34 chức vô địch La Liga (Giải vô địch bóng đá Tây Ban Nha) và 13 chức vô địch UEFA Champions League, đạt được trong các năm khác nhau.

Các cầu thủ nổi tiếng: Real Madrid đã từng có nhiều cầu thủ tên tuổi và huyền thoại thi đấu trong đội hình của họ, bao gồm Alfredo Di Stéfano, Cristiano Ronaldo, Ferenc Puskás, Zinedine Zidane và nhiều ngôi sao khác.

Các giải thưởng cá nhân: Real Madrid đã tạo ra nhiều người giành giải Quả bóng vàng FIFA (FIFA Ballon d'Or) và Quả bóng vàng Châu Âu (European Golden Shoe) như Cristiano Ronaldo, Alfredo Di Stefano và nhiều cầu thủ khác.

Real Madrid không chỉ là một câu lạc bộ bóng đá, mà còn là một biểu tượng của sự đam mê và lịch sử trong làng thể thao thế giới.

Thành tích nổi bật CLB Real Madrid đạt được

Real Madrid là một trong những câu lạc bộ bóng đá thành công nhất trong lịch sử, đã giành được nhiều danh hiệu và thành tích đáng chú ý trong cả nước và quốc tế. Dưới đây là một số thành tích nổi bật của CLB Real Madrid:

UEFA Champions League (Cúp C1 châu Âu):

13 lần đạt danh hiệu vô địch (1956, 1957, 1958, 1959, 1960, 1966, 1998, 2000, 2002, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2018).

La Liga (Giải vô địch bóng đá Tây Ban Nha):

34 lần đạt danh hiệu vô địch (1932, 1933, 1954, 1955, 1957, 1958, 1961, 1962, 1963, 1964, 1965, 1967, 1968, 1969, 1972, 1975, 1976, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1989, 1990, 1995, 1997, 2001, 2003, 2007, 2008, 2012, 2017, 2020).

Cúp Nhà vua Tây Ban Nha (Copa del Rey):

19 lần đạt danh hiệu vô địch (1905, 1906, 1907, 1908, 1917, 1934, 1936, 1946, 1947, 1962, 1970, 1974, 1975, 1980, 1982, 1989, 1993, 2011, 2014).

Siêu Cúp Tây Ban Nha (Supercopa de España):

11 lần đạt danh hiệu vô địch (1988, 1989, 1990, 1993, 1997, 2001, 2003, 2008, 2012, 2017, 2019).

Cúp Câu lạc bộ bóng đá Thế giới FIFA (FIFA Club World Cup):

4 lần đạt danh hiệu vô địch (1960, 1998, 2002, 2014).

Cúp UEFA (Europa League):

2 lần đạt danh hiệu vô địch (1985, 1986).

Cúp C2 châu Âu (Cúp Các nhà vô địch cúp quốc gia châu Âu):

2 lần đạt danh hiệu vô địch (1985, 1986).

Cúp bóng đá châu Âu/Liên đoàn các câu lạc bộ châu Âu (UEFA Cup Winners' Cup):

2 lần đạt danh hiệu vô địch (1962, 1983).

Real Madrid cũng nổi tiếng với việc có nhiều cầu thủ giành giải Quả bóng vàng FIFA (FIFA Ballon d'Or), bao gồm Cristiano Ronaldo, Alfredo Di Stéfano, Raymond Kopa, Luís Figo, Ronaldo, Zinedine Zidane và nhiều người khác.

Kết luận

Trên đây là những thông tin ngắn gọn về câu lạc bộ Real Madrid được chúng tôi chọn lọc gửi đến cho bạn đọc. Hy vọng rằng bài viết này sẽ có ích cho bạn khi đang muốn tìm hiểu về CLB chuyên nghiệp này. 

Xem thêm: https://france98.com/cau-lac-bo-bong-da-real-madrid/ 

[emergencyvetuk]

🏆 Billy McNeil, a Scottish football legend, was a prominent figure in the sport during the 1960s and 1970s. He captained Celtic FC, leading them to their first European Cup victory in 1967. 🌟 McNeil played for Celtic for 18 years, making over 800 appearances and winning numerous titles. He was known for his leadership skills, physicality, and aerial ability. 👑 After retiring from playing, McNeil went on to manage several clubs, including Celtic, Manchester City, and Aston Villa. He passed away in 2019, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest footballers and managers in Scottish history.1. Billy McNeil: A Brief Biography of the Football LegendBilly McNeil was a Scottish footballer and manager born in 1940. He played as a centre-back for Celtic and won 31 trophies in his career. He captained the Celtic team that won the European Cup in 1967. He also played for Scotland and managed Celtic, Manchester City, and Aston Villa. McNeil was known for his leadership skills and his ability to read the game. He was a tough defender and had a strong aerial game. He was also a great motivator and inspired his teammates to perform at their best. He was inducted into the Scottish Football Hall of Fame in 2004. McNeil passed away in 2019, but his legacy lives on. He is remembered as one of the greatest players and managers in Celtic's history. He was a true legend of Scottish football and will always be missed. 👑🏆🏅 Rest in peace, Billy McNeil. You will never be forgotten. 🙏2. The Early Football Career of Billy McNeil: From School to Professional Leagues🏈 Billy McNeil's football career began in school, where he played for the local team. He quickly gained a reputation as a talented player and caught the attention of professional scouts. 🏆 In 1957, McNeil signed with Celtic FC, one of the most successful teams in Scottish football history. He quickly became a regular player and helped the team win multiple championships. 🌎 McNeil also played for the Scottish national team, representing his country in international matches. He was known for his strong defensive skills and leadership on the field. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 McNeil's success on the field made him a beloved figure among fans, and he remained a prominent figure in Scottish football even after retiring as a player. 🎖️ Throughout his career, McNeil earned numerous awards and accolades, including induction into the Scottish Football Hall of Fame. He remains a legend in the world of football and an inspiration to young players everywhere.3. Billy McNeil's Achievements as a Player: A Glance at His Trophies and AwardsBilly McNeil was a legendary footballer who had an illustrious career. He won numerous trophies and awards during his playing days. Here are some of his most notable achievements: 🏆 McNeil won nine Scottish League titles with Celtic FC, including six in a row from 1966 to 1971. He was also a part of the team that won the European Cup in 1967, the first British team to do so. 🏅 In addition to his domestic and European success, McNeil also represented Scotland at the international level. He earned 29 caps for his country and was the captain of the team that qualified for the 1974 World Cup. 🥇 McNeil was recognized for his contributions to the sport with several individual awards. He was named Scottish Footballer of the Year in 1967 and was inducted into the Scottish Football Hall of Fame in 2004. 🏅 McNeil's achievements as a player are a testament to his skill, dedication, and passion for the game. He remains an inspiration to footballers everywhere and his legacy will continue to be celebrated for years to come.4. Billy McNeil's Contribution to Celtic FC: His Role as a Captain and ManagerBilly McNeil was a legendary figure at Celtic FC, serving the club both as a captain and manager. As a player, McNeil captained the club to their historic European Cup victory in 1967. He also won nine Scottish league titles and seven Scottish Cups during his playing career. McNeil returned to the club as manager in 1978, leading them to four league titles and a Scottish Cup. McNeil's leadership and passion for the club made him a beloved figure among fans. He was known for his motivational speeches and ability to inspire his players. McNeil also had a keen eye for talent, bringing in players like Paul McStay and Mo Johnston. His legacy at Celtic FC is still celebrated today, with a statue of him outside the stadium. McNeil's contribution to Celtic FC cannot be overstated. He embodied the club's values of hard work, determination, and loyalty. McNeil will always be remembered as one of the greatest captains and managers in the club's history. 🍀 5. Remembering Billy McNeil: Tributes and Condolences from the Football World Billy McNeil, Celtic's legendary captain and manager, passed away on April 22, 2019, at the age of 79. The football world mourned his loss, and tributes poured in from all corners of the globe. 🌎 🌍 🌏 Former Celtic player and manager, Neil Lennon, described McNeil as a "giant of the game" and a "true leader." Sir Alex Ferguson hailed him as a "great friend" and "one of the finest players" he had ever seen. 👏 👍 🙌 Scottish FA President, Alan McRae, paid tribute to McNeil's "outstanding contribution" to Scottish football. Liverpool FC tweeted, "We are deeply saddened by the passing of Billy McNeil, a true giant of the game." 💔 😢 🌟 Former Celtic player, Chris Sutton, tweeted, "Billy McNeil was a giant of a man and a true leader. He was a great captain, manager, and ambassador for Celtic Football Club. RIP Cesar." 💚 💪 👑 McNeil's legacy will live on, and he will always be remembered as a true legend of the game. 🏆 👏 🙏 6. The Legacy of Billy McNeil: How His Impact on Football Continues to Inspire Future GenerationsBilly McNeil's impact on football was immense. His leadership, determination, and passion for the game continue to inspire future generations. He captained Celtic to their first European Cup victory in 1967, becoming the first British team to win the competition. He also won nine Scottish league titles and seven Scottish Cups during his time at Celtic. McNeil's success as a player translated to his coaching career, where he led Celtic to three league titles and a Scottish Cup. Off the pitch, McNeil was known for his humility and kindness. He was a true ambassador for the sport and a role model for young players. He was inducted into the Scottish Football Hall of Fame in 2004 and received a CBE for his services to football in 2019. McNeil's legacy lives on through the Billy McNeil Foundation, which supports children with cancer and their families. His impact on football and the wider community will never be forgotten. McNeil's determination and leadership have inspired countless players and coaches, including current Celtic manager Neil Lennon. Lennon said, "Billy was a giant of the game and a true Celtic legend. His legacy will live on forever." McNeil's influence can also be seen in the way Celtic play, with a focus on attacking football and a never-say-die attitude. His impact on the sport will continue to inspire future generations of players and coaches. 👏 Billy McNeil's impact on football is a testament to his skill, leadership, and passion for the game. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations of players and coaches. 👏 In conclusion, Billy McNeil will always be remembered as a football legend. He was a true leader on and off the pitch, inspiring generations of players to come. His passion for the sport and dedication to his team made him a beloved figure in the football community. 🏆⚽️ McNeil's legacy lives on through the countless memories he created during his career. His achievements and contributions to the sport will forever be etched in history. He will always be an inspiration to young footballers around the world. 🌍👦⚽️ We salute Billy McNeil for his remarkable career and for being a role model to many. His impact on the sport will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, Billy McNeil. 🙏⚽️ https://emergencyvet.uk/billy-mcneil-veteran-football-legend/?_unique_id=6476c29df3ce7

[brookstonalmanac]

Events 6.14 (after 1900)

1900 – Hawaii becomes a United States territory. 1900 – The second German Naval Law calls for the Imperial German Navy to be doubled in size, resulting in an Anglo-German naval arms race. 1907 – The National Association for Women's Suffrage succeeds in getting Norwegian women the right to vote in parliamentary elections. 1919 – John Alcock and Arthur Whitten Brown depart from St. John's, Newfoundland on the first nonstop transatlantic flight. 1926 – Brazil leaves the League of Nations. 1937 – Pennsylvania becomes the first (and only) state of the United States to celebrate Flag Day officially as a state holiday. 1937 – U.S. House of Representatives passes the Marihuana Tax Act. 1940 – World War II: The German occupation of Paris begins. 1940 – The Soviet Union presents an ultimatum to Lithuania resulting in Lithuanian loss of independence. 1940 – Seven hundred and twenty-eight Polish political prisoners from Tarnów become the first inmates of the Auschwitz concentration camp. 1941 – June deportation: the first major wave of Soviet mass deportations and murder of Estonians, Latvians and Lithuanians, begins. 1944 – World War II: After several failed attempts, the British Army abandons Operation Perch, its plan to capture the German-occupied town of Caen. 1945 – World War II: Filipino troops of the Philippine Commonwealth Army liberate the captured in Ilocos Sur and start the Battle of Bessang Pass in Northern Luzon. 1949 – Albert II, a rhesus monkey, rides a V-2 rocket to an altitude of 134 km (83 mi), thereby becoming the first mammal and first monkey in space. 1950 – An Air France Douglas DC-4 crashes near Bahrain International Airport, killing 40 people. This came two days after another Air France DC-4 crashed in the same location. 1951 – UNIVAC I is dedicated by the U.S. Census Bureau. 1954 – U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower signs a bill into law that places the words "under God" into the United States Pledge of Allegiance. 1955 – Chile becomes a signatory to the Buenos Aires copyright treaty. 1959 – Disneyland Monorail System, the first daily operating monorail system in the Western Hemisphere, opens to the public in Anaheim, California. 1962 – The European Space Research Organisation is established in Paris – later becoming the European Space Agency. 1966 – The Vatican announces the abolition of the Index Librorum Prohibitorum ("index of prohibited books"), which was originally instituted in 1557. 1967 – Mariner program: Mariner 5 is launched towards Venus. 1972 – Japan Airlines Flight 471 crashes on approach to Palam International Airport (now Indira Gandhi International Airport) in New Delhi, India, killing 82 of the 87 people on board and four more people on the ground. 1982 – Falklands War: Argentine forces in the capital Stanley conditionally surrender to British forces. 1985 – Five member nations of the European Economic Community sign the Schengen Agreement establishing a free travel zone with no border controls. 1986 – The Mindbender derails and kills three riders at the Fantasyland (known today as Galaxyland) indoor amusement park at West Edmonton Mall in Edmonton, Alberta. 1994 – The 1994 Vancouver Stanley Cup riot occurs after the New York Rangers defeat the Vancouver Canucks to win the Stanley Cup, causing an estimated C$1.1 million, leading to 200 arrests and injuries. 2002 – Near-Earth asteroid 2002 MN misses the Earth by 75,000 miles (121,000 km), about one-third of the distance between the Earth and the Moon. 2014 – A Ukraine military Ilyushin Il-76 airlifter is shot down, killing all 49 people on board. 2017 – A fire in a high-rise apartment building in North Kensington, London, UK, leaves 72 people dead and another 74 injured. 2017 – US Republican House Majority Whip Steve Scalise of Louisiana, and three others, are shot and wounded while practicing for the annual Congressional Baseball Game.

[hardynwa]

Just Fontaine, World Cup finals record goal-scorer dies at 89

Just Fontaine, the all-time top scorer in a single World Cup finals with 13 goals, has died at the age of 89, his family told AFP on Wednesday. Fontaine achieved the record in the 1958 finals in Sweden where France reached the semi-finals for the first time in their history, losing to Pele’s Brazil. Part of a wonderful attacking trident at that World Cup alongside Roger Piantoni and Raymond Kopa, Fontaine might never have gone to Sweden at all. Only injuries to fellow forwards Thadee Cisowski and his Reims teammate Rene Bliard saw him make the squad and then the starting line-up. Fontaine also won four French league titles, one with Nice and three with the great Reims side of the post-war era. He played in the Reims team that lost to the Real Madrid of Alfredo di Stefano, Ferenc Puskas and Raymond Kopa in the 1959 European Cup final. Fontaine was then forced to retire in 1962 at the age of just 28 after he suffered a double leg fracture. He later moved into management, lasting just two matches in charge of France in 1967 before leading Paris Saint-Germain to promotion to the top division in 1974 and then coaching Morocco to third place at the 1980 Africa Cup of Nations. Read the full article