france24--2020-08-21--Sevilla beat Inter in thrilling final to win sixth Europa League

Sevilla boss Julen Lopetegui said he does not look back at what might have been with Spain and Real Madrid after leading the Spanish side to a sixth Europa League title thanks to a 3-2 win over Inter Milan in a thrilling final in Cologne .
Lopetegui was sacked as Spain boss days before the start of the 2018 World Cup for accepting the role as Madrid coach and then also fired by Real just four months later .
But in his first season in Seville , the former Madrid and Barcelona goalkeeper has restored his reputation with a fourth-placed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ European giants Inter , Manchester United and Roma in the latter stages of the Europa League .
`` Fortunately I do n't look back , '' said Lopetegui .
`` I have the luck to be in a club that has given me this chance to be with a real team with everything that word means . ''
By contrast , Inter coach Antonio Conte suggested his time in Milan might be over after just one season despite finishing second in Serie A and leading the Italians to a first European final in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ right that we analyse the entire season , look at everything in a very calm way and try to plan the future of Inter , whether it ’ s with or without me , '' said Conte .
`` This year will always have a place in my heart , it 's been such a strange year and exhausting year .
It 's been a worthwhile and incredible experience . ''
The outcome could have been very different had match winner Diego Carlos been sent off inside three minutes for hauling down Romelu @ @ @ @ @ @ @ only shown a yellow card before Lukaku confidently slotted home his 34th goal of the season to equal his idol Ronaldo 's record in his first season at Inter , which ended in the club 's last UEFA Cup win 1997/98 .
Luuk De Jong has been far from that prolific in his first season in Spain , but the Dutch international suddenly hit form at the right time as after scoring the winner in the semi-final against United , he powered home from Jesus Navas 's cross and then looped another header @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's free-kick to turn the game around .
`` I dedicate this to the Sevilla fans , '' said De Jong .
`` I got the feeling , even in the group stages , how important this cup is for them and we knew if we win this trophy if it also for them . ''
Sevilla 's lead only lasted three minutes as Diego Godin 's bullet header saw the Uruguayan become the first defender to score in a Champions League and Europa League final .
But the Uruguayan has now lost @ @ @ @ @ @ @ defeat to Real Madrid in the 2014 Champions League final .
Tempers flared towards the end of a pulsating first-half with Conte booked for an altercation with Banega after the Argentine reportedly made fun of his hair .
Inter were made to rue wasting the better opportunities in the second half as their nine-year trophy drought continues .
Lukaku had the best chance as he raced through on goal 25 minutes from time , but just as in the semi-final victory over United , Sevilla goalkeeper Bono produced a vital save when needed @ @ @ @ @ @ @ previous five Europa League final victories , Sevilla conjured up a moment of magic allied with a slice of fortune they needed to again take the trophy they call their own back to southern Spain .
Inter failed to clear another Banega free-kick into the box and Carlos more than made amends for some of his heavy-handed defending with an overhead kick that deflected in off the unfortunate Lukaku .
`` We are very disappointed but we have to move on , '' said Inter captain Samir Handanovic .
`` We just hope @ @ @ @ @ @ @ this in the future .
The foundations are there . ''

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Sevilla boss Julen Lopetegui said he does not look back at what might have been with Spain and Real Madrid after leading the Spanish side to a sixth Europa League title thanks to a 3-2 win over Inter Milan in a thrilling final in Cologne.
Lopetegui was sacked as Spain boss days before the start of the 2018 World Cup for accepting the role as Madrid coach and then also fired by Real just four months later.
But in his first season in Seville, the former Madrid and Barcelona goalkeeper has restored his reputation with a fourth-placed finish in La Liga and seeing off European giants Inter, Manchester United and Roma in the latter stages of the Europa League.
"Fortunately I don't look back," said Lopetegui. "I have the luck to be in a club that has given me this chance to be with a real team with everything that word means."
By contrast, Inter coach Antonio Conte suggested his time in Milan might be over after just one season despite finishing second in Serie A and leading the Italians to a first European final in 10 years.
"It is only right that we analyse the entire season, look at everything in a very calm way and try to plan the future of Inter, whether it’s with or without me," said Conte.
"This year will always have a place in my heart, it's been such a strange year and exhausting year. It's been a worthwhile and incredible experience."
The outcome could have been very different had match winner Diego Carlos been sent off inside three minutes for hauling down Romelu Lukaku in the area.
Carlos was only shown a yellow card before Lukaku confidently slotted home his 34th goal of the season to equal his idol Ronaldo's record in his first season at Inter, which ended in the club's last UEFA Cup win 1997/98.
Luuk De Jong has been far from that prolific in his first season in Spain, but the Dutch international suddenly hit form at the right time as after scoring the winner in the semi-final against United, he powered home from Jesus Navas's cross and then looped another header into the far corner from Ever Banega's free-kick to turn the game around.
- 'Made fun of Conte's hair' -
"I dedicate this to the Sevilla fans," said De Jong. "I got the feeling, even in the group stages, how important this cup is for them and we knew if we win this trophy if it also for them."
Sevilla's lead only lasted three minutes as Diego Godin's bullet header saw the Uruguayan become the first defender to score in a Champions League and Europa League final.
But the Uruguayan has now lost both after scoring in Atletico Madrid's defeat to Real Madrid in the 2014 Champions League final.
Tempers flared towards the end of a pulsating first-half with Conte booked for an altercation with Banega after the Argentine reportedly made fun of his hair.
Inter were made to rue wasting the better opportunities in the second half as their nine-year trophy drought continues.
Lukaku had the best chance as he raced through on goal 25 minutes from time, but just as in the semi-final victory over United, Sevilla goalkeeper Bono produced a vital save when needed.
And like so many of their previous five Europa League final victories, Sevilla conjured up a moment of magic allied with a slice of fortune they needed to again take the trophy they call their own back to southern Spain.
Inter failed to clear another Banega free-kick into the box and Carlos more than made amends for some of his heavy-handed defending with an overhead kick that deflected in off the unfortunate Lukaku.
"We are very disappointed but we have to move on," said Inter captain Samir Handanovic. "We just hope to play many other important games like this in the future. The foundations are there."
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-21--S&P downgrades Lebanon bonds to default after missed payments

Part of Lebanon ’ s capital Beirut in the dark due to fuel shortages , as the country grapples with its worst economic crisis since the 1975-1990 civil war Credit ratings agency S & P on Friday downgraded more Lebanese government debt issues after missed payments , citing the country 's worsening economic crisis following the devastating explosion in Beirut earlier this month .
S & P Global Ratings maintained the `` selective default '' or `` SD '' rating for Lebanon 's foreign debt , after the country first defaulted in March , but three more bonds were cut @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' the agency said .
`` The recent catastrophic explosion in Beirut is deepening the country 's economic crisis , '' S & P said in a statement .
`` A protracted political vacuum or weak new government could further delay policy reforms , external aid and debt restructuring negotiations . ''
The capital was ravaged by a massive explosion at Beirut 's port on August 4 that killed 181 people and wounded thousands .
That was followed by protests against the government , leading the cabinet to resign .
Still reeling @ @ @ @ @ @ @ also entered into a new coronavirus lockdown Friday after a string of record daily infections tallies .
`` Even before these recent events , Lebanon had made limited progress in engaging creditors on debt restructuring negotiations , '' S & P said .
The IMF has been working with the government to try to reach an agreement on a new aid program that could undergird a debt restructuring and unlock billions more in aid .
Lebanon 's government says it needs $ 20 billion in external funding , which includes $ 11 billion @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , this `` remains elusive as the key Lebanese political institutions and players are unable to agree on the causes and scope of the country 's crisis . ''
`` Without a strong commitment to implement structural economic , fiscal and monetary reforms , and absent a policy anchor provided by an IMF program , we expect restructuring negotiations will be drawn out beyond 2020 , '' the agency said .

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Credit ratings agency S&P on Friday downgraded more Lebanese government debt issues after missed payments, citing the country's worsening economic crisis following the devastating explosion in Beirut earlier this month.
S&P Global Ratings maintained the "selective default" or "SD" rating for Lebanon's foreign debt, after the country first defaulted in March, but three more bonds were cut to "D" from "CC," the agency said.
"The recent catastrophic explosion in Beirut is deepening the country's economic crisis," S&P said in a statement. "A protracted political vacuum or weak new government could further delay policy reforms, external aid and debt restructuring negotiations."
The capital was ravaged by a massive explosion at Beirut's port on August 4 that killed 181 people and wounded thousands. That was followed by protests against the government, leading the cabinet to resign.
Still reeling from the deadly blast, the country also entered into a new coronavirus lockdown Friday after a string of record daily infections tallies.
"Even before these recent events, Lebanon had made limited progress in engaging creditors on debt restructuring negotiations," S&P said.
The IMF has been working with the government to try to reach an agreement on a new aid program that could undergird a debt restructuring and unlock billions more in aid.
Lebanon's government says it needs $20 billion in external funding, which includes $11 billion pledged by donors in 2018.
However, this "remains elusive as the key Lebanese political institutions and players are unable to agree on the causes and scope of the country's crisis."
"Without a strong commitment to implement structural economic, fiscal and monetary reforms, and absent a policy anchor provided by an IMF program, we expect restructuring negotiations will be drawn out beyond 2020," the agency said.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-21--'With or without me': Conte throws Inter future into doubt after Europa League defeat

Antonio Conte took over as Inter Milan coach in May 2019 .
Antonio Conte cast fresh doubt over his position as Inter Milan coach saying the club must examine their future `` with or without me '' after Friday 's 3-2 Europa League final defeat to Sevilla .
`` Now we 'll return to Milan , we 'll take a couple of days off .
We will meet , examine the season and everything in a very calm way .
We will try to plan the future of Inter with our without me , '' Conte , 51 , told @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a very tough season from all points of view , the best decision must be taken for the good of Inter , with the utmost cordiality .
`` There is no resentment , there are different points of view .
`` For me it was a beautiful year , I thank those who gave me the opportunity to have a wonderful experience . ''
Former Chelsea and Juventus boss Conte took over as Inter Milan coach in May 2019 .
The club finished second in Serie A , just one point behind champions @ @ @ @ @ @ @ final in a decade .
`` I think I have given a lot and received a lot , from this point of view I am very happy , '' added Conte .
`` However , I did not like some situations I experienced this year , '' continued the former Italy coach .
`` I also have a family and I have to understand if my priority remains football , because there is a limit to everything .
I do n't want my private life to be affected too . ''
Conte regretted @ @ @ @ @ @ @ are `` accustomed to winning '' having won the Europa League trophy six times .
`` The certainty is that my lads worked hard , they grew up and got to play the important competition final .
For many it was the first experience . ''
Inter Milan president Steven Zhang insisted that the season under Conte had made the club 's Chinese owners `` optimistic for the future '' .
`` It has n't worked now but we 'll try again next year , '' Zhang said .
`` The most important @ @ @ @ @ @ @ because the future is bright .
Conte and his technical staff are doing a great job .
As I said , we 'll rest for a few days and plan for the future . ''

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Antonio Conte cast fresh doubt over his position as Inter Milan coach saying the club must examine their future "with or without me" after Friday's 3-2 Europa League final defeat to Sevilla.
"Now we'll return to Milan, we'll take a couple of days off. We will meet, examine the season and everything in a very calm way. We will try to plan the future of Inter with our without me," Conte, 51, told Sky Sport.
"It has been a very tough season from all points of view, the best decision must be taken for the good of Inter, with the utmost cordiality.
"There is no resentment, there are different points of view.
"For me it was a beautiful year, I thank those who gave me the opportunity to have a wonderful experience."
Former Chelsea and Juventus boss Conte took over as Inter Milan coach in May 2019.
The club finished second in Serie A, just one point behind champions Juventus, and reached their first European final in a decade.
"I think I have given a lot and received a lot, from this point of view I am very happy," added Conte.
"However, I did not like some situations I experienced this year," continued the former Italy coach.
"I also have a family and I have to understand if my priority remains football, because there is a limit to everything. I don't want my private life to be affected too."
Conte regretted the defeat against the Spanish side who are "accustomed to winning" having won the Europa League trophy six times.
"The certainty is that my lads worked hard, they grew up and got to play the important competition final. For many it was the first experience."
Inter Milan president Steven Zhang insisted that the season under Conte had made the club's Chinese owners "optimistic for the future".
"It hasn't worked now but we'll try again next year," Zhang said.
"The most important thing is to continue to grow, because the future is bright. Conte and his technical staff are doing a great job. As I said, we'll rest for a few days and plan for the future."
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-21--'FreeFortnite' tournament taunts Apple amid legal battle

Epic Games says the FreeFortnite Cup tournament will feature prizes and `` one bad apple '' The maker of video game sensation Fortnite is taunting Apple amid its legal battle with the tech titan , launching a tournament on Sunday to highlight its war on the App Store fee policy .
`` All of your friends .
Awesome prizes .
And one bad apple , '' Epic Games said in a post on its website .
The `` FreeFortnite Cup '' is free to enter and prizes include a virtual `` Tart Tycoon '' outfit featuring an apple head , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ top scores in each of the game 's 20,000 regions around the world will be sent caps with a `` Free Fortnite '' logo playing off of Apple 's iconic symbol , Epic said .
Epic also encouraged players to express their displeasure with Apple on Twitter using the # FreeFortnite hashtag .
Fortnite players on Apple mobile devices wo n't be able to access a new season of the game , set to launch August 27 with a software update , because the app has been removed from Apple 's App Store @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of the entire Fortnite community 's ability to play together , '' Epic said .
The company filed a lawsuit against Apple last week after the iPhone maker took Fortnite off its App Store for releasing an update that dodges revenue sharing .
The latest version contains a payment system that lets player transactions bypass the App Store , preventing Cupertino-based Apple from collecting its typical 30 percent cut .
Epic has asked a judge to make Apple put Fortnite back in the App Store until the matter is resolved in court .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ such an emergency order , arguing in a legal filing that Epic 's situation is a `` self-inflicted wound '' that could be remedied by updating Fortnite to stop bypassing the App Store payment system .
`` Epic made a deliberate choice to cheat Apple , '' it said .
`` Having decided that it would rather enjoy the benefits of the App Store without paying for them , Epic has breached its contracts with Apple , using its own customers and Apple 's users as leverage . ''
Epic has executed a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ parody video , merchandise , hashtag , belligerent tweets and legal action , Apple contended .
Apple does not allow users of its popular devices to download apps from anywhere but its App Store , prompting critics to argue it wields monopoly power .
The tech giant has also notified Epic it will cut off access to tools needed to tailor software for devices powered by its operating systems , according to a request by the game maker for a temporary restraining order .
Without those tools , Epic will not be able @ @ @ @ @ @ @ computer versions of its widely used Unreal Engine for powering rich graphics .
Gamers can still play Fortnite on Apple mobile devices , but will not receive updates because those need to come through the App Store .
Epic reminded players they can access the latest versions of Fortnite on personal computers , video game consoles and Android-powered mobile devices .
It is giving away 1,200 pieces of gaming hardware as prizes in the Sunday tournament .
`` Just because you ca n't play on iOS does n't mean there are n't other @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Epic told fans .

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The maker of video game sensation Fortnite is taunting Apple amid its legal battle with the tech titan, launching a tournament on Sunday to highlight its war on the App Store fee policy.
"All of your friends. Awesome prizes. And one bad apple," Epic Games said in a post on its website.
The "FreeFortnite Cup" is free to enter and prizes include a virtual "Tart Tycoon" outfit featuring an apple head, sunglasses and condescending frown.
Players with top scores in each of the game's 20,000 regions around the world will be sent caps with a "Free Fortnite" logo playing off of Apple's iconic symbol, Epic said.
Epic also encouraged players to express their displeasure with Apple on Twitter using the #FreeFortnite hashtag.
Fortnite players on Apple mobile devices won't be able to access a new season of the game, set to launch August 27 with a software update, because the app has been removed from Apple's App Store.
"These are the final days of the entire Fortnite community's ability to play together," Epic said.
The company filed a lawsuit against Apple last week after the iPhone maker took Fortnite off its App Store for releasing an update that dodges revenue sharing.
The latest version contains a payment system that lets player transactions bypass the App Store, preventing Cupertino-based Apple from collecting its typical 30 percent cut.
- Self-inflicted wound? -
Epic has asked a judge to make Apple put Fortnite back in the App Store until the matter is resolved in court.
Apple on Friday voiced its opposition to such an emergency order, arguing in a legal filing that Epic's situation is a "self-inflicted wound" that could be remedied by updating Fortnite to stop bypassing the App Store payment system.
"Epic made a deliberate choice to cheat Apple," it said.
"Having decided that it would rather enjoy the benefits of the App Store without paying for them, Epic has breached its contracts with Apple, using its own customers and Apple's users as leverage."
Epic has executed a carefully orchestrated campaign, complete with a parody video, merchandise, hashtag, belligerent tweets and legal action, Apple contended.
Apple does not allow users of its popular devices to download apps from anywhere but its App Store, prompting critics to argue it wields monopoly power.
The tech giant has also notified Epic it will cut off access to tools needed to tailor software for devices powered by its operating systems, according to a request by the game maker for a temporary restraining order.
Without those tools, Epic will not be able to create iPhone, iPad or Mac computer versions of its widely used Unreal Engine for powering rich graphics.
Gamers can still play Fortnite on Apple mobile devices, but will not receive updates because those need to come through the App Store.
Epic reminded players they can access the latest versions of Fortnite on personal computers, video game consoles and Android-powered mobile devices.
It is giving away 1,200 pieces of gaming hardware as prizes in the Sunday tournament.
"Just because you can't play on iOS doesn't mean there aren't other awesome places to play Fortnite," Epic told fans.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-21--No spectators at Kentucky Derby over COVID-19 concerns

Next month 's 146th Kentucky Derby , the second event in US horse racing 's Triple Crown , will be contested without spectators , Churchill Downs announced Friday .
The September 5 showdown in Louisville , Kentucky , was postponed from May 2 because of the COVID-19 pandemic and concerns over the deadly virus prompted the decision to keep the grandstands empty after organizers had already banned infield spectators .
`` The health and safety of our team , fans and participants is our highest concern , '' the racetrack said in a statement .
Only essential personnel and participants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Derby or other related races .
`` We 've left no stones unturned and reached the right decision , '' said Bill Carstanjen , chief executive officer of Churchill Downs .
Tiz the Law , which won the Belmont Stakes in June , hopes to capture the second leg in the US flat racing treble at Louisville and complete the sweep in October 's Preakness .
The event order has been jumbled by postponements due to the deadly virus outbreak .
Churchill Downs had a safety plan for a limited number of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` With the current significant increases in COVID-19 cases in Louisville as well as across the region , we needed to again revisit our planning , '' the statement said .
`` We have made the difficult decision to hold this year 's Kentucky Derby on September 5 without fans .
`` Churchill Downs and all of our team members feel strongly that it is our collective responsibility as citizens of Louisville to do all we responsibly can to protect the health , safety and security of our community in these challenging times @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spectators is the best way to do that . ''
`` The virus is still aggressively spreading in Kentucky and the White House has announced that Jefferson County and the City of Louisville are in a 'red zone ' based on increases in cases , '' Beshear said .
`` This week alone the county had more than 2,300 new cases .
`` I applaud Churchill Downs for continuing to monitor the virus and for making the right and responsible decision . ''

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Next month's 146th Kentucky Derby, the second event in US horse racing's Triple Crown, will be contested without spectators, Churchill Downs announced Friday.
The September 5 showdown in Louisville, Kentucky, was postponed from May 2 because of the COVID-19 pandemic and concerns over the deadly virus prompted the decision to keep the grandstands empty after organizers had already banned infield spectators.
"The health and safety of our team, fans and participants is our highest concern," the racetrack said in a statement.
Only essential personnel and participants will be allowed at Churchill Downs for the Derby or other related races.
"We've left no stones unturned and reached the right decision," said Bill Carstanjen, chief executive officer of Churchill Downs.
Tiz the Law, which won the Belmont Stakes in June, hopes to capture the second leg in the US flat racing treble at Louisville and complete the sweep in October's Preakness. The event order has been jumbled by postponements due to the deadly virus outbreak.
Churchill Downs had a safety plan for a limited number of spectators but kept all options open.
"With the current significant increases in COVID-19 cases in Louisville as well as across the region, we needed to again revisit our planning," the statement said.
"We have made the difficult decision to hold this year's Kentucky Derby on September 5 without fans.
"Churchill Downs and all of our team members feel strongly that it is our collective responsibility as citizens of Louisville to do all we responsibly can to protect the health, safety and security of our community in these challenging times and believe that running the Derby without spectators is the best way to do that."
Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear supported the move.
"The virus is still aggressively spreading in Kentucky and the White House has announced that Jefferson County and the City of Louisville are in a 'red zone' based on increases in cases," Beshear said. "This week alone the county had more than 2,300 new cases.
"I applaud Churchill Downs for continuing to monitor the virus and for making the right and responsible decision."
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-21--Sevilla skipper dedicates victory to Reyes, Puerta

Sevilla captain Jesus Navas dedicated his club 's sixth Europa League title triumph to former players Jose Antonio Reyes , killed in a car crash last year , and Antonio Puerta , who died from a heart attack in 2007 .
The Spanish side defeated Inter Milan 3-2 in a thrilling final on Friday .
Attacker Navas , however , was quick to hail Reyes and Puerta .
Reyes , who played in three Sevilla teams which won the Europa League , was killed in June last year .
Puerta died at the age of 22 after suffering a heart @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2007 .
`` To be able to raise this cup as captain of my Sevilla means so much to me , for all the people , for friends who are no longer here -- for Puerta , for Reyes , '' Navas said .
`` And for my godfather who has died .
I hope Sevilla fans are proud of us .
We all lift the trophy because we are all captains . ''
Navas also hailed coach Julen Lopetegui , two years after the embarrassment of being sacked as coach of Spain @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Cup .
He then lasted just 14 games as Real Madrid boss .
`` Lopetegui works 24 hours a day for Sevilla , he deserves this , '' Navas said .
Diego Carlos , whose overhead kick deflected in off Romelu Lukaku 16 minutes from time to give Sevilla victory , says he had double reason to celebrate .
`` This title was very important for all of us .
I thank the club for all they have done for me .
I 've scored a goal , won a trophy and my @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 27-year-old Brazilian .

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Sevilla captain Jesus Navas dedicated his club's sixth Europa League title triumph to former players Jose Antonio Reyes, killed in a car crash last year, and Antonio Puerta, who died from a heart attack in 2007.
The Spanish side defeated Inter Milan 3-2 in a thrilling final on Friday.
Attacker Navas, however, was quick to hail Reyes and Puerta.
Reyes, who played in three Sevilla teams which won the Europa League, was killed in June last year.
Puerta died at the age of 22 after suffering a heart attack in a Liga game in August 2007.
"To be able to raise this cup as captain of my Sevilla means so much to me, for all the people, for friends who are no longer here -- for Puerta, for Reyes," Navas said.
"And for my godfather who has died. I hope Sevilla fans are proud of us. We all lift the trophy because we are all captains."
Navas also hailed coach Julen Lopetegui, two years after the embarrassment of being sacked as coach of Spain on the eve of the 2018 World Cup.
He then lasted just 14 games as Real Madrid boss.
"Lopetegui works 24 hours a day for Sevilla, he deserves this," Navas said.
Diego Carlos, whose overhead kick deflected in off Romelu Lukaku 16 minutes from time to give Sevilla victory, says he had double reason to celebrate.
"This title was very important for all of us. I thank the club for all they have done for me. I've scored a goal, won a trophy and my wife is pregnant," said the 27-year-old Brazilian.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-21--'Exciting' Radradra claims first Bristol try in Gloucester win

Semi Radradra scored seven tries in 13 games for Bordeaux-Begles last season Fiji centre Remi Radradra scored his first Bristol Bears try since joining from Bordeaux-Begles over the summer in Friday 's 33-24 win at Gloucester in the English Premiership .
Radradra , who signed a three-year deal with the Bears after the French club said they failed to match them financially , crossed after 28 minutes after a quiet debut last weekend as his new side kept hold of second place .
`` I do n't think he has to live up to anything , that boy , '' @ @ @ @ @ @ @ When the guys do their jobs it gives Semi the space and we saw what he can do and he 's determined to do better than that .
So it 's exciting , '' the former Samoa back-rower added .
Former All Blacks full-back Charles Piutau , who reportedly earns £1million ( $ 1.31million ) , a season was rested with a busy schedule ahead including two midweek fixtures over the next month in a re-scheduled season due to the coronavirus pandemic .
Max Mallins , Henry Purdy , Harry Thacker and Ben @ @ @ @ @ @ @ first win at Kingsholm in 14 years .
Elsewhere , leaders Exeter Chiefs beat Sale Sharks 32-22 with England hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie scoring the pick of the tries for last year 's runners up .
`` Everyone in the Sale team knew it was coming , and he still scored it , there 's very few people that have got the ability to convert that kind of power and drive over that distance , '' Chiefs coach Rob Baxter said .
In the other game , Wasps leapfrogged the Sharks to third despite @ @ @ @ @ @ @ overcome Worcester Warriors 30-17 .
On Saturday , champions Saracens , who will be relegated at the end of the campaign due to salary cap breaches , head to Harlequins , London Irish host Northampton and Leicester welcome Bath .

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Fiji centre Remi Radradra scored his first Bristol Bears try since joining from Bordeaux-Begles over the summer in Friday's 33-24 win at Gloucester in the English Premiership.
Radradra, who signed a three-year deal with the Bears after the French club said they failed to match them financially, crossed after 28 minutes after a quiet debut last weekend as his new side kept hold of second place.
"I don't think he has to live up to anything, that boy," Bears coach Pat Lam said.
"When the guys do their jobs it gives Semi the space and we saw what he can do and he's determined to do better than that. So it's exciting," the former Samoa back-rower added.
Former All Blacks full-back Charles Piutau, who reportedly earns £1million ($1.31million), a season was rested with a busy schedule ahead including two midweek fixtures over the next month in a re-scheduled season due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Max Mallins, Henry Purdy, Harry Thacker and Ben Earl also crossed in the Bears' first win at Kingsholm in 14 years.
Elsewhere, leaders Exeter Chiefs beat Sale Sharks 32-22 with England hooker Luke Cowan-Dickie scoring the pick of the tries for last year's runners up.
"Everyone in the Sale team knew it was coming, and he still scored it, there's very few people that have got the ability to convert that kind of power and drive over that distance," Chiefs coach Rob Baxter said.
In the other game, Wasps leapfrogged the Sharks to third despite trailing by five points at half-time to overcome Worcester Warriors 30-17.
On Saturday, champions Saracens, who will be relegated at the end of the campaign due to salary cap breaches, head to Harlequins, London Irish host Northampton and Leicester welcome Bath.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-21--Blazers coach says Lillard will play Saturday against Lakers

Portland coach Terry Stotts confirmed Friday that Trail Blazers star Damian Lillard would play Saturday 's NBA playoff game against the Los Angeles Lakers , likely with a splint on his dislocated left index finger .
`` He 's getting treatments today , '' Stotts told reporters from the NBA 's coronavirus quarantine bubble in Orlando , Florida .
`` Multiple treatments throughout the day .
`` I believe he 'll be wearing a splint , but he will play . ''
That only confirmed what Lillard said after he was hurt in Thursday 's 111-88 loss to the Lakers @ @ @ @ @ @ @ playoff series level at 1-1 .
`` Oh , I 'm playing , '' he said -- a comment that came as no surprise to his coach .
`` Honestly , it 's kind of what you expect , '' he said of Lillard 's determination .
`` Dame has played through a lot of injuries and this being the playoffs I do n't think it surprises anybody .
`` Certainly it sets the tone for the team . ''
Lillard has been a revelation since the NBA resumed in Orlando on July @ @ @ @ @ @ @ games and a play-in game against the Memphis Grizzlies that gave the Blazers their shot at Western Conference top seed Los Angeles .
He put up 50 points against Philadelphia , 61 against Dallas and 43 against Brooklyn just to get Portland into the play-in .
After they dispatched Memphis in one game , he scored 34 points in Portland 's game-one upset of the Lakers .
He scored 18 points in 30 minutes in game two , departing with less than two minutes remaining in the third quarter after hitting his finger @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tried to reach around the Lakers star for the ball .
`` I felt it right away , '' Lillard said , adding that he `` did n't even want to look at it . ''
When he did , he saw that the finger was `` off '' and tried to pull it back into place himself before the Blazers medical staff took over .
While the Lakers looked more like the team that dominated the West before the coronavirus hiatus , Stotts said the lopsided game-two defeat had n't discouraged the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ our 11th game in the bubble , '' he noted .
`` And the previous 10 games all were within five points with five minutes to go .
I know we 're still confident . ''

Miami (AFP) –
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Portland coach Terry Stotts confirmed Friday that Trail Blazers star Damian Lillard would play Saturday's NBA playoff game against the Los Angeles Lakers, likely with a splint on his dislocated left index finger.
"He's getting treatments today," Stotts told reporters from the NBA's coronavirus quarantine bubble in Orlando, Florida. "Multiple treatments throughout the day.
"I believe he'll be wearing a splint, but he will play."
That only confirmed what Lillard said after he was hurt in Thursday's 111-88 loss to the Lakers, which left their best-of-seven opening round playoff series level at 1-1.
"Oh, I'm playing," he said -- a comment that came as no surprise to his coach.
"Honestly, it's kind of what you expect," he said of Lillard's determination. "Dame has played through a lot of injuries and this being the playoffs I don't think it surprises anybody.
"Certainly it sets the tone for the team."
Lillard has been a revelation since the NBA resumed in Orlando on July 31, powering Portland through the seeding games and a play-in game against the Memphis Grizzlies that gave the Blazers their shot at Western Conference top seed Los Angeles.
He put up 50 points against Philadelphia, 61 against Dallas and 43 against Brooklyn just to get Portland into the play-in.
After they dispatched Memphis in one game, he scored 34 points in Portland's game-one upset of the Lakers.
He scored 18 points in 30 minutes in game two, departing with less than two minutes remaining in the third quarter after hitting his finger on Anthony Davis's shoe as he tried to reach around the Lakers star for the ball.
"I felt it right away," Lillard said, adding that he "didn't even want to look at it."
When he did, he saw that the finger was "off" and tried to pull it back into place himself before the Blazers medical staff took over.
While the Lakers looked more like the team that dominated the West before the coronavirus hiatus, Stotts said the lopsided game-two defeat hadn't discouraged the battle-hardened Trail Blazers.
"That was our 11th game in the bubble," he noted. "And the previous 10 games all were within five points with five minutes to go. I know we're still confident."
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-21--Zanni bows out in Pro14 loss as rugby returns in Italy after six-month lockdown

Italy veteran Alessandro Zanni played the final game of his career as Treviso lost 17-13 to Zebre on Friday in @ @ @ @ @ the country after a six-month coronavirus shutdown .
The Azzurri 's 119-cap flanker Zanni , @ @ @ @ @ teammates and staff with not more than 200 people authorised to be present at the @ @ @ @ @ at the Stadio Comunale Monigo Neither side had anything left to play for in the @ @ @ @ @ season , with Zebre always in control , leading 10-3 at half-time in hot conditions @ @ @ @ @ of five consecutive defeats to their local rivals .
Tommaso Boni and Jimmy Tuivati both @ @ @ @ @ Zebre with Carlo Canna kicking five points and Antonio Rizzi two .
Treviso paid for @ @ @ @ @ of many young players with Joaquín Riera scoring their only try late .
Ian Keatley @ @ @ @ @ also on target for the hosts .

Milan (AFP) –
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Italy veteran Alessandro Zanni played the final game of his career as Treviso lost 17-13 to Zebre on Friday in the first rugby match in the country after a six-month coronavirus shutdown.
The Azzurri's 119-cap flanker Zanni, 36, was applauded by teammates and staff with not more than 200 people authorised to be present at the the game behind closed doors at the Stadio Comunale Monigo
Neither side had anything left to play for in the penultimate round of the re-organised season, with Zebre always in control, leading 10-3 at half-time in hot conditions, to end a run of five consecutive defeats to their local rivals.
Tommaso Boni and Jimmy Tuivati both touched down for Parma side Zebre with Carlo Canna kicking five points and Antonio Rizzi two.
Treviso paid for their indiscipline and the inexperience of many young players with Joaquín Riera scoring their only try late.
Ian Keatley converted with rookie Paolo Garbisi also on target for the hosts.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-21--MLB champ Nats star pitcher Strasburg has carpal tunnel ailment

Washington Nationals pitcher Stephen Strasburg , last year 's World Series Most Valuable Player , has been diagnosed with carpal tunnel neuritis in his right hand , the reigning Major League Baseball champions announced Friday .
The 32-year-old American was placed on the 10-day injury list Sunday as Nationals manager Dave Martinez and team physicians consider surgery among options to treat the injury , diagnosed Thursday by a nerve specialist .
`` Now we ’ re going to sit back and discuss what the plans are moving forward , '' Martinez said .
`` I think it 's something that @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
Martinez wanted to consult Strasburg , an 11-year MLB veteran , before making any decision on how to proceed .
`` We do n't know , '' he said .
`` Are we conservative and let it try to heal ?
Or the other option is , it could be possible to have surgery . ''
Strasburg began having tingling in his right hand near the end of pre-season training camp and missed his first two scheduled starts of the season , delayed to a July start and shrunk to 60 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tried to pitch through the discomfort , but he managed only five innings in two appearances , going only 2/3 of an inning last week after throwing only 16 pitches against Baltimore .
He is 0-1 this year with a 10.80 earned-run average and two strikeouts .
`` It helps us all knowing that we can have a plan going forward , '' Martinez said .
`` But my concern is always Stephen and hope that he recovers as quick as possible -- regardless of whether he pitches again this year or not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ record seven-year contract worth $ 245 million in December , might not return this year .
`` He 's going to be missed , no matter what , '' Martinez said .
`` Every start with him was always good every five days to put his name in there and watch him do his thing . ''
Erick Fedde has filled in as a starter with Strasburg out and is likely to make that role full time until his return .
`` The rest of these guys , they know what they need @ @ @ @ @ @ @ `` They will pick up the slack and we 'll go from there . ''

Washington (AFP) –
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Washington Nationals pitcher Stephen Strasburg, last year's World Series Most Valuable Player, has been diagnosed with carpal tunnel neuritis in his right hand, the reigning Major League Baseball champions announced Friday.
The 32-year-old American was placed on the 10-day injury list Sunday as Nationals manager Dave Martinez and team physicians consider surgery among options to treat the injury, diagnosed Thursday by a nerve specialist.
"Now we’re going to sit back and discuss what the plans are moving forward," Martinez said. "I think it's something that's going to have to be fixed."
Martinez wanted to consult Strasburg, an 11-year MLB veteran, before making any decision on how to proceed.
"We don't know," he said. "Are we conservative and let it try to heal? Or the other option is, it could be possible to have surgery."
Strasburg began having tingling in his right hand near the end of pre-season training camp and missed his first two scheduled starts of the season, delayed to a July start and shrunk to 60 games by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Strasburg tried to pitch through the discomfort, but he managed only five innings in two appearances, going only 2/3 of an inning last week after throwing only 16 pitches against Baltimore. He is 0-1 this year with a 10.80 earned-run average and two strikeouts.
"It helps us all knowing that we can have a plan going forward," Martinez said. "But my concern is always Stephen and hope that he recovers as quick as possible -- regardless of whether he pitches again this year or not."
Strasburg, who signed a record seven-year contract worth $245 million in December, might not return this year.
"He's going to be missed, no matter what," Martinez said. "Every start with him was always good every five days to put his name in there and watch him do his thing."
Erick Fedde has filled in as a starter with Strasburg out and is likely to make that role full time until his return.
"The rest of these guys, they know what they need to do," Martinez said. "They will pick up the slack and we'll go from there."
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-21--California fires spread, fouling air and spurring evacuations

An aircraft drops fire retardant on a ridge during the Walbridge fire , part of the larger LNU Lightning Complex fire , as flames continue to spread in Healdsburg , California on August 20 , 2020 Thick smoke blanketed large areas of central and northern California on Friday as more people fled some of the biggest fires in the state 's history which have raged largely uncontrolled through the week .
The largest group of fires , dubbed the LNU Lightning Complex , had scorched nearly 220,000 acres ( 89,000 hectares ) and forced the evacuation of tens of thousands @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fire which erupted on Monday was just seven percent contained .
Some of the fires in that complex -- described as the ninth largest in the state 's history -- threatened wineries in the famed Napa and Sonoma regions which are still reeling from similar deadly blazes in recent years .
Officials said five deaths have been linked to the fires , which were ignited in the past several days by more than 12,000 lightning strikes .
Four bodies were recovered on Thursday , including three from a burned house in a rural @ @ @ @ @ @ @ said the lightning strikes had ignited 560 fires in the past week , 20 of which are considered major .
Some 119,000 people have been evacuated , with many struggling to find shelter and hesitating to go to centers set up by authorities because of coronavirus risks .
Some in San Mateo and Santa Cruz Counties , south of San Francisco , opted to sleep in trailers in parking lots or on beaches along the Pacific Ocean as they fled a combination of fires dubbed the CZU Lightning Complex .
Tourists in Santa @ @ @ @ @ @ @ or vacation rentals to free up space for people fleeing the blazes .
Governor Gavin Newsom highlighted the crisis in a pre-taped speech to the Democratic National Convention Thursday evening , saying the fires were directly linked to climate change .
`` Climate change is real , '' he said .
`` If you are in denial about climate change , come to California . ''
Newsom also took aim at President Donald Trump , who has repeatedly criticized the state for its handling of the fires and threatened to withhold funding if @ @ @ @ @ @ @ . ''
`` Just today , the president of the United States threatened the state of California -- - 40 million Americans that happen to live here in the state of California -- to defund our efforts on wildfire suppression , because he said we had n't raked enough leaves , '' Newsom said .
`` Ca n't make that up . ''
The governor told reporters in an update Friday that most of the fires are burning in unpopulated areas and have chewed through some 771,000 acres -- the size of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ walked back some of his criticism of Trump , saying the president had been open to helping the state in its firefighting efforts .
`` There is not one phone call I have made to the president where he has n't quickly responded , and almost in every instance has responded favorably ... as it related to these wildfires , '' Newsom said .
`` He may make statements publicly , but the working relationship privately has been a very effective one , '' he added .
The governor said several states , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , sent reinforcements to help battle the fires .
Meanwhile the smell of smoke lingered in San Francisco and other regions for the third consecutive day on Friday , with authorities urging residents to stay indoors .
`` The many fire complexes burning around the Bay Area and Central Coast will keep skies hazy and smoky , at least in the short term , '' the National Weather Service said .
Authorities in the Bay Area , which encompasses seven counties , issued an air quality alert in effect through Sunday .

Los Angeles (AFP) –
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Thick smoke blanketed large areas of central and northern California on Friday as more people fled some of the biggest fires in the state's history which have raged largely uncontrolled through the week.
The largest group of fires, dubbed the LNU Lightning Complex, had scorched nearly 220,000 acres (89,000 hectares) and forced the evacuation of tens of thousands of residents.
By midday, the fire which erupted on Monday was just seven percent contained.
Some of the fires in that complex -- described as the ninth largest in the state's history -- threatened wineries in the famed Napa and Sonoma regions which are still reeling from similar deadly blazes in recent years.
Officials said five deaths have been linked to the fires, which were ignited in the past several days by more than 12,000 lightning strikes.
Four bodies were recovered on Thursday, including three from a burned house in a rural area of Napa County.
Fire officials said the lightning strikes had ignited 560 fires in the past week, 20 of which are considered major.
Some 119,000 people have been evacuated, with many struggling to find shelter and hesitating to go to centers set up by authorities because of coronavirus risks.
Some in San Mateo and Santa Cruz Counties, south of San Francisco, opted to sleep in trailers in parking lots or on beaches along the Pacific Ocean as they fled a combination of fires dubbed the CZU Lightning Complex.
Tourists in Santa Cruz County were urged to leave hotels or vacation rentals to free up space for people fleeing the blazes.
Governor Gavin Newsom highlighted the crisis in a pre-taped speech to the Democratic National Convention Thursday evening, saying the fires were directly linked to climate change.
- 'Climate change is real' -
"Climate change is real," he said. "If you are in denial about climate change, come to California."
Newsom also took aim at President Donald Trump, who has repeatedly criticized the state for its handling of the fires and threatened to withhold funding if it doesn't "clean the forests."
"Just today, the president of the United States threatened the state of California --- 40 million Americans that happen to live here in the state of California -- to defund our efforts on wildfire suppression, because he said we hadn't raked enough leaves," Newsom said. "Can't make that up."
The governor told reporters in an update Friday that most of the fires are burning in unpopulated areas and have chewed through some 771,000 acres -- the size of the state of Rhode Island.
He also walked back some of his criticism of Trump, saying the president had been open to helping the state in its firefighting efforts.
"There is not one phone call I have made to the president where he hasn't quickly responded, and almost in every instance has responded favorably ... as it related to these wildfires," Newsom said.
"He may make statements publicly, but the working relationship privately has been a very effective one," he added.
The governor said several states, including Oregon, New Mexico and Texas, sent reinforcements to help battle the fires.
Meanwhile the smell of smoke lingered in San Francisco and other regions for the third consecutive day on Friday, with authorities urging residents to stay indoors.
"The many fire complexes burning around the Bay Area and Central Coast will keep skies hazy and smoky, at least in the short term," the National Weather Service said.
Authorities in the Bay Area, which encompasses seven counties, issued an air quality alert in effect through Sunday.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-21--LeBron objects to tweets, image in deceptive ad campaign

NBA star LeBron James hit back Friday at a deceptive digital ad campaign raising fears over US mail-in voting that is using his image and words out of context .
Three-time NBA champion James , now leading the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA playoffs , tweeted his concerns Friday along with a Washington Post article outlining the moves of FreedomWorks , which has circulated ads on Facebook .
Some paid posts include an image of James with quotes of his branding the closing of polling places `` systemic racism and oppression '' and linking those closures to expanding opportunities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was not doing .
`` First of all , Everyone needs to know the kind of BS happening about this election and get organized .
This is exactly why we coming together for @ morethanavote - misinformation = suppression ! ''
James tweeted Friday .
`` Secondly , Nobody should be able to use my name ( or anyone else name ) to lie and deceive about the election .
Not sure what we can do legally but definitely trying to figure it out ! ''
Peter Vicenzi , communications director for FreedomWorks @ @ @ @ @ @ @ group '' set up the website and placed ads , saying of the material about James , `` That 's not our ad . ''
The situation comes ahead of November 's US Presidential election , where Donald Trump will run for re-election .
Trump has criticized NBA players for kneeling during the US anthem before games , a protest move made to raise awareness of racial inequality and social injustice issues .
After Trump said he does n't watch games after seeing players kneel , James responded by saying he did n't @ @ @ @ @ @ @ sad about losing his viewership . ''
Four-time NBA Most Valuable Player James called Trump a `` bum '' in 2017 when he rescinded an invitation to the Golden State Warriors to visit the White House in celebration of their NBA title .
James wore an altered Trump `` Make America Great Again '' cap on Tuesday that changed the message to instead read `` Make America Arrest The Cops Who Killed Breonna Taylor . ''
James also saluted workers at Goodyear , based in his hometown of Akron , Ohio , after @ @ @ @ @ @ @ for the company 's supposed ban on the Trump `` MAGA '' caps .

Washington (AFP) –
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NBA star LeBron James hit back Friday at a deceptive digital ad campaign raising fears over US mail-in voting that is using his image and words out of context.
Three-time NBA champion James, now leading the Los Angeles Lakers in the NBA playoffs, tweeted his concerns Friday along with a Washington Post article outlining the moves of FreedomWorks, which has circulated ads on Facebook.
Some paid posts include an image of James with quotes of his branding the closing of polling places "systemic racism and oppression" and linking those closures to expanding opportunities to vote by mail -- something James was not doing.
"First of all, Everyone needs to know the kind of BS happening about this election and get organized. This is exactly why we coming together for @morethanavote - misinformation = suppression!" James tweeted Friday.
"Secondly, Nobody should be able to use my name (or anyone else name) to lie and deceive about the election. Not sure what we can do legally but definitely trying to figure it out!"
Peter Vicenzi, communications director for FreedomWorks, told the Post a "partner group" set up the website and placed ads, saying of the material about James, "That's not our ad."
The situation comes ahead of November's US Presidential election, where Donald Trump will run for re-election.
Trump has criticized NBA players for kneeling during the US anthem before games, a protest move made to raise awareness of racial inequality and social injustice issues.
After Trump said he doesn't watch games after seeing players kneel, James responded by saying he didn't "really think the basketball community are sad about losing his viewership."
Four-time NBA Most Valuable Player James called Trump a "bum" in 2017 when he rescinded an invitation to the Golden State Warriors to visit the White House in celebration of their NBA title.
James wore an altered Trump "Make America Great Again" cap on Tuesday that changed the message to instead read "Make America Arrest The Cops Who Killed Breonna Taylor."
James also saluted workers at Goodyear, based in his hometown of Akron, Ohio, after Trump urged a boycott of Goodyear products for the company's supposed ban on the Trump "MAGA" caps.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-22--Yorkshire's Ballance sidelined by 'anxiety and stress'

Gary Ballance ( R ) batting for England against a Western Australian XI in Perth in 2017 Former England batsman @ @ @ @ @ `` anxiety and stress '' , his county , Yorkshire , said Saturday .
The @ @ @ @ @ 23 Tests and 16 one-day internationals from 2013-2017 , has not appeared for Yorkshire in @ @ @ @ @ COVID-19 outbreak .
`` Gary is currently managing some heightened feelings of anxiety and stress @ @ @ @ @ isolation due to the COVID-19 lockdown , his own recent viral illness and other personal @ @ @ @ @ Yorkshire statement .
`` The post-viral symptoms have affected his physical preparation for this shortened @ @ @ @ @ currently unavailable for selection and we are unable to put any timescales on his return @ @ @ @ @ .
`` Gary 's health and well-being remains our priority and the club and medical @ @ @ @ @ closely with Gary to support his return to playing as soon as possible . ''

London (AFP) –
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Former England batsman Gary Ballance is suffering with "anxiety and stress", his county, Yorkshire, said Saturday.
The 30-year-old left-hander, who played 23 Tests and 16 one-day internationals from 2013-2017, has not appeared for Yorkshire in a season delayed by the COVID-19 outbreak.
"Gary is currently managing some heightened feelings of anxiety and stress following a long period of isolation due to the COVID-19 lockdown, his own recent viral illness and other personal factors," said a Yorkshire statement.
"The post-viral symptoms have affected his physical preparation for this shortened cricket season. He is currently unavailable for selection and we are unable to put any timescales on his return to playing at this time.
"Gary's health and well-being remains our priority and the club and medical staff will continue to work closely with Gary to support his return to playing as soon as possible."
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-22--Man Utd captain Maguire released after assault hearing

Harry Maguire became the world 's most expensive defender when he joined Manchester United last year for £80 million Manchester United captain Harry Maguire was released from Greek police custody Saturday , TV footage showed , pending a hearing on assault charges on the island of Mykonos .
Local TV footage showed Maguire leaving a courthouse on neighbouring Syros island , apparently accompanied by members of his legal team , and boarding a dark minivan .
His lawyer Constantinos Darivas had earlier told Greek sports website gazzetta.gr that the England centre-back had denied the charges , and was in `` @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in detention since his Thursday night arrest .
Greek TV channel Mega said Maguire 's father had flown to Greece to be at his son 's side .
The case is being heard on the island of Syros , the administrative hub of the Cycladic island group that includes Mykonos .
The local prosecutor is expected to set a date for the hearing .
The £80 million ( 88 million euros ) defender was arrested late Thursday after what Greek police described as an `` altercation '' between two groups of British tourists @ @ @ @ @ @ @ become enraged after someone in the other group struck his sister .
A Greek police statement on Friday said that three men aged 27 , 28 and 29 had been arrested in Mykonos .
The police said an officer was punched on the scene , and that a second fight had broken out at the local police station where the three men `` strenuously resisted ( arrest ) , pushing and striking three officers . ''
One of the suspects then tried to bribe the officers to hush up the incident , the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of assault , resisting arrest , verbally insulting and threatening the arresting officers , and attempted bribery , the police said .
Four Mykonos officers sustained slight injuries in the fracas , the authorities said .
Mykonos is popular with sports stars and celebrities for its all-night nightlife and beaches .
United on Friday said in a brief statement they were `` aware of an alleged incident involving Harry Maguire in Mykonos last night . ''
`` Contact has been made with Harry , and he is fully co-operating with the Greek authorities @ @ @ @ @ @ @ be making no further comment , '' the club added .
United 's 2019/20 season ended Sunday in a 2-1 defeat to Sevilla in the Europa League semi-finals .
But the club will be back in pre-season training in two weeks and could begin the new Premier League campaign in less than a month .
On Monday , Maguire had tweeted after the elimination : `` Time to go away , reflect , recover and be ready to come back stronger next season . ''

Athens (AFP) –
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Manchester United captain Harry Maguire was released from Greek police custody Saturday, TV footage showed, pending a hearing on assault charges on the island of Mykonos.
Local TV footage showed Maguire leaving a courthouse on neighbouring Syros island, apparently accompanied by members of his legal team, and boarding a dark minivan.
His lawyer Constantinos Darivas had earlier told Greek sports website gazzetta.gr that the England centre-back had denied the charges, and was in "fine condition" despite spending two nights in detention since his Thursday night arrest.
Greek TV channel Mega said Maguire's father had flown to Greece to be at his son's side.
The case is being heard on the island of Syros, the administrative hub of the Cycladic island group that includes Mykonos.
The local prosecutor is expected to set a date for the hearing.
The £80 million (88 million euros) defender was arrested late Thursday after what Greek police described as an "altercation" between two groups of British tourists on Mykonos.
Mega said Maguire had become enraged after someone in the other group struck his sister.
A Greek police statement on Friday said that three men aged 27, 28 and 29 had been arrested in Mykonos.
The police said an officer was punched on the scene, and that a second fight had broken out at the local police station where the three men "strenuously resisted (arrest), pushing and striking three officers."
One of the suspects then tried to bribe the officers to hush up the incident, the police said.
The suspects are accused of assault, resisting arrest, verbally insulting and threatening the arresting officers, and attempted bribery, the police said.
Four Mykonos officers sustained slight injuries in the fracas, the authorities said.
Mykonos is popular with sports stars and celebrities for its all-night nightlife and beaches.
United on Friday said in a brief statement they were "aware of an alleged incident involving Harry Maguire in Mykonos last night."
"Contact has been made with Harry, and he is fully co-operating with the Greek authorities.
"At this time we will be making no further comment," the club added.
United's 2019/20 season ended Sunday in a 2-1 defeat to Sevilla in the Europa League semi-finals.
But the club will be back in pre-season training in two weeks and could begin the new Premier League campaign in less than a month.
On Monday, Maguire had tweeted after the elimination: "Time to go away, reflect, recover and be ready to come back stronger next season."
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-22--India says five killed carrying heroin at Pakistan border

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france24--2020-08-22--Police to be deployed, Champs-Élysées made pedestrian-only for PSG's Champions League final

Paris ’ s iconic Champs-Élysées will become a pedestrian-only zone during PSG ’ s Champions League final showdown against Bayern Munich on Sunday evening – while 3,000 police will be deployed in the French capital as authorities try to avoid a repeat of the rowdy scenes that greeted PSG ’ s semi-final victory on Tuesday .
The Champs-Élysées and surrounding streets in central Paris will be closed to traffic on Sunday evening at 9pm , when the match kicks off .
Face masks will be compulsory for people gathering there , with authorities planning to distribute more than 2,000 of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 17 metro stations will be closed .
“ Our priority is to guarantee people ’ s health and safety as well as maintaining public order , ” France ’ s Interior Minister Gérard Darmanin said in a tweet on Saturday morning .
Police will be deployed to central Paris and around PSG ’ s stadium the Parc des Princes in the wealthy 16th arrondissement in the southwestern corner of Paris , Darmanin added in televised comments .
The match will be played behind closed doors at the Estadio de la Luz in Lisbon @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
French authorities are keen to avoid a repeat of Tuesday night ’ s scenes in Paris , when police arrested 36 people , including three minors , after clashes – notably on the Champs-Élysées – following PSG ’ s semi-final win over RB Leipzig .
Thousands of PSG fans , often very young and for the most part not wearing masks in line with coronavirus health and safety protocols , paraded down the Champs-Élysées in cars , and on mopeds and scooters , in a cacophony of horn-blowing and chanting .
Arrests @ @ @ @ @ @ @ various acts , including the throwing of projectiles , acts of violence against authorities , contempt and theft .
On Friday , the French health ministry reported 4,586 new coronavirus infections over the past 24 hours , after the country reached a post-lockdown record the previous day .
`` All the indicators keep going up and the transmission of the virus is getting stronger among all ages groups affected , young adults in particular , '' the health ministry said in a statement .
It added that the virus was especially active in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 's two biggest cities .

Paris’s iconic Champs-Élysées will become a pedestrian-only zone during PSG’s Champions League final showdown against Bayern Munich on Sunday evening – while 3,000 police will be deployed in the French capital as authorities try to avoid a repeat of the rowdy scenes that greeted PSG’s semi-final victory on Tuesday.
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The Champs-Élysées and surrounding streets in central Paris will be closed to traffic on Sunday evening at 9pm, when the match kicks off.
Face masks will be compulsory for people gathering there, with authorities planning to distribute more than 2,000 of them for free. Across Paris, 17 metro stations will be closed.
“Our priority is to guarantee people’s health and safety as well as maintaining public order,” France’s Interior Minister Gérard Darmanin said in a tweet on Saturday morning.
Police will be deployed to central Paris and around PSG’s stadium the Parc des Princes in the wealthy 16th arrondissement in the southwestern corner of Paris, Darmanin added in televised comments. The match will be played behind closed doors at the Estadio de la Luz in Lisbon, Portuguese side Benfica’s ground.
French authorities are keen to avoid a repeat of Tuesday night’s scenes in Paris, when police arrested 36 people, including three minors, after clashes – notably on the Champs-Élysées – following PSG’s semi-final win over RB Leipzig.
Thousands of PSG fans, often very young and for the most part not wearing masks in line with coronavirus health and safety protocols, paraded down the Champs-Élysées in cars, and on mopeds and scooters, in a cacophony of horn-blowing and chanting.
Arrests were made, police said, for various acts, including the throwing of projectiles, acts of violence against authorities, contempt and theft.
On Friday, the French health ministry reported 4,586 new coronavirus infections over the past 24 hours, after the country reached a post-lockdown record the previous day. "All the indicators keep going up and the transmission of the virus is getting stronger among all ages groups affected, young adults in particular," the health ministry said in a statement.
It added that the virus was especially active in and around Paris and Marseille, France's two biggest cities.
(FRANCE 24 with AFP and REUTERS)
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france24--2020-08-22--Virus curbs see elephant idols shrunk for major Indian festival

Usually Ganesha idols up to 10 metres high are paraded throught Indian cities for the festival but this year authorities have set a maximum height of 1.1 metres in a bid to cut crowds under anti-virus measures Indian authorities have imposed tough anti-coronavirus restrictions on gatherings and the size of Ganesha elephant god idols for one of the biggest religious festivals of the year that started Saturday .
The 10 days of prayers and family gatherings for Ganesh Chaturthi started under a pandemic cloud with the country closing on three million infections and 56,000 deaths .
Most major cities have @ @ @ @ @ @ @ god Ganesha , which can draw thousands of Hindu devotees onto the streets , be shrunk back .
Traditionally , the idols can tower 10 metres ( 30 feet ) high or more and need dozens of people to carry them but this year authorities said they can be no more than 1.1 metres tall in a bid to cut crowds .
In New Delhi , no Ganesha idols will be shown in public while hard-hit Mumbai has cut back access to the seafront to immerse Ganesha figures , usually the highlight of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ flock to the beaches on the final day of the festival to immerse elaborately decorated figurines of the deity in the Arabian Sea .
This year , authorities in India 's financial capital have constructed hundreds of artificial immersion ponds across the city to stop hordes crowding the waterfront .
Devotees will also be able to leave their elephant idols at collection centres and volunteers will immerse them in the sea .
Authorities want devotees to mark the festival at home , dampening enthusiasm among pandemic-weary locals .
Even the idols worshipped at @ @ @ @ @ @ @ centimetres ( 13 inches ) .
`` Every year I looked forward to Ganesha celebrations and visited a nearby lake to watch idol immersions .
But this year , we are not even inviting friends home for traditional prayers , '' Mumbai-based analyst Ruta Amin told AFP .
`` With lively music , colours , and rituals , the Ganesha festival always brought communities together .
But 2020 is muted and sad , '' the 27-year-old said .
In a sign of the times one of the rare Ganesha elephants on display sprays @ @ @ @ @ @ @ come to pray .
Worshippers are barred from making public offerings to the deity and organisers have been ordered to sanitise outdoor marquees several times a day .
Some cities which have seen a surge in coronavirus cases had proposed a complete ban on Ganesha gatherings in public .
But in Bangalore , authorities relented following protests by religious groups .
Public displays of the elephant figures will still be restricted with socially distanced followers having to wear masks .

Mumbai (AFP) –
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Indian authorities have imposed tough anti-coronavirus restrictions on gatherings and the size of Ganesha elephant god idols for one of the biggest religious festivals of the year that started Saturday.
The 10 days of prayers and family gatherings for Ganesh Chaturthi started under a pandemic cloud with the country closing on three million infections and 56,000 deaths.
Most major cities have ordered that effigies of the popular elephant-headed god Ganesha, which can draw thousands of Hindu devotees onto the streets, be shrunk back.
Traditionally, the idols can tower 10 metres (30 feet) high or more and need dozens of people to carry them but this year authorities said they can be no more than 1.1 metres tall in a bid to cut crowds.
In New Delhi, no Ganesha idols will be shown in public while hard-hit Mumbai has cut back access to the seafront to immerse Ganesha figures, usually the highlight of the festival.
Tens of thousands traditionally flock to the beaches on the final day of the festival to immerse elaborately decorated figurines of the deity in the Arabian Sea.
This year, authorities in India's financial capital have constructed hundreds of artificial immersion ponds across the city to stop hordes crowding the waterfront.
Devotees will also be able to leave their elephant idols at collection centres and volunteers will immerse them in the sea.
Authorities want devotees to mark the festival at home, dampening enthusiasm among pandemic-weary locals. Even the idols worshipped at home must be no more than 33 centimetres (13 inches).
"Every year I looked forward to Ganesha celebrations and visited a nearby lake to watch idol immersions. But this year, we are not even inviting friends home for traditional prayers," Mumbai-based analyst Ruta Amin told AFP.
"With lively music, colours, and rituals, the Ganesha festival always brought communities together. But 2020 is muted and sad," the 27-year-old said.
In a sign of the times one of the rare Ganesha elephants on display sprays sanitizer onto the hands of devotees who come to pray.
Worshippers are barred from making public offerings to the deity and organisers have been ordered to sanitise outdoor marquees several times a day.
Some cities which have seen a surge in coronavirus cases had proposed a complete ban on Ganesha gatherings in public.
But in Bangalore, authorities relented following protests by religious groups. Public displays of the elephant figures will still be restricted with socially distanced followers having to wear masks.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-22--Mir edges improved Quartararo in Styrian MotoGP practice

Joan Mir topped the times in Saturday 's third practice session at Spielberg Spanish rider Joan Mir of Suzuki set @ @ @ @ @ penultimate Styrian MotoGP practice session , with championship leader Fabio Quartararo second fastest after two @ @ @ @ @ .
Japan 's Takaaki Nakagami was third quickest on his Honda alongside last week 's @ @ @ @ @ who clocked an identical lap time .
Frenchman Johann Zarco , penalised Friday for his @ @ @ @ @ Franco Morbidelli last weekend , was cleared to ride in the third practice session but @ @ @ @ @ .
Quartararo has finished seventh and eighth since winning the opening two races of the @ @ @ @ @ an 11-point lead over Dovizioso in the championship standings .
He ensured direct entry into @ @ @ @ @ top-10 time on Saturday , having struggled with his brakes and then focusing more on @ @ @ @ @ in the opening two sessions at Spielberg .
Qualifying for Sunday 's race at the @ @ @ @ @ 1210 GMT , shortly after the conclusion of the final practice session .

Spielberg (Austria) (AFP) –
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Spanish rider Joan Mir of Suzuki set the benchmark in Saturday's penultimate Styrian MotoGP practice session, with championship leader Fabio Quartararo second fastest after two frustrating run-outs 24 hours earlier.
Japan's Takaaki Nakagami was third quickest on his Honda alongside last week's Austrian MotoGP winner Andrea Dovizioso who clocked an identical lap time.
Frenchman Johann Zarco, penalised Friday for his role in a crash with Franco Morbidelli last weekend, was cleared to ride in the third practice session but could only manage 12th place.
Quartararo has finished seventh and eighth since winning the opening two races of the coronavirus-hit campaign, and holds an 11-point lead over Dovizioso in the championship standings.
He ensured direct entry into Q2 by comfortably posting a top-10 time on Saturday, having struggled with his brakes and then focusing more on his Yamaha's race pace in the opening two sessions at Spielberg.
Qualifying for Sunday's race at the Red Bull Ring begins at 1210 GMT, shortly after the conclusion of the final practice session.
Combined Styrian MotoGP practice times:
1. Joan Mir (ESP/Suzuki): 1.23:456, 2. Fabio Quartararo (FRA/Yamaha-SRT) at 0.151sec, 3. Takaaki Nakagami (JPN/Honda-LCR) 0.154, 4. Andrea Dovizioso (ITA/Ducati) 0.154, 5. Maverick Vinales (ESP/Yamaha) 0.161, 6. Pol Espargaro (ESP/KTM) 0.182, 7. Miguel Oliveira (POR/KTM-Tech3) 0.269, 8. Franco Morbidelli (ITA/Yamaha-SRT) 0.271, 9. Alex Rins (ESP/Suzuki) 0.298, 10. Jack Miller (AUS/Ducati-Pramac) 0.339
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-22--Covid-19 success story S. Korea toughens social distancing as outbreak grows

Pedestrians wearing masks to prevent the spread of the coronavirus disease ( COVID-19 ) walk in a shopping district in Seoul , South Korea , August 20 , 2020 .
South Korea said on Saturday it will roll out tougher social distancing guidelines to curb the spread of coronavirus nationwide as it battles a new outbreak of the disease spreading from the capital , Seoul .
The Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ( KCDC ) reported 315 new domestic coronavirus infections as of midnight Friday , the latest in a string of triple digit increases in new local @ @ @ @ @ @ @ tracing and widespread testing to contain its first outbreak of the novel coronavirus , but Asia ’ s fourth-largest economy has experienced persistent outbreaks in recent weeks , mostly in and around densely populated Seoul and the surrounding areas .
The latest numbers take the country 's tally to 17,002 with 309 deaths .
In Seoul and some surrounding cities , the government has reimposed second-tier social distancing rules , including restricting large gatherings , banning in-person church meetings while closing nightclubs , karaoke bars , buffets and cyber cafes .
The same @ @ @ @ @ @ @ across the country effective Sunday .
However , in some areas with fewer infections , the guidelines would be recommended rather than obligatory .
`` If we do n't curb the spread ( of the virus ) in early stages , this will grow as a large-scale wave .
To us , there is nothing more important than focusing on responding to COVID-19 , '' Health Minister Park Neung-hoo told a briefing on Saturday .
Health authorities have categorized social distancing rules in three stages - stage 1 being the least intense and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and businesses are urged to close .
`` If we enhance the social distancing guidelines to the third stage , it is inevitable that they will take a toll on people 's daily lives and economy .
We urge you to the situation seriously , '' KCDC deputy director Kwon Jun-wook told a briefing .
Kwon said South Korea has provided anti-viral drug remdesivir to treat 143 patients at 35 hospitals , but access to the drug has been irregular due to issues on the supplier side .
In June , South Korea @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enough remdesivir to treat more than 5,000 COVID-19 patients in preparation for a possible second wave of infections .
The Health Ministry also said it was postponing its decision to pursue policies boosting the number of medical students until the COVID-19 situation stabilises .
Thousands of South Korean doctors have staged strikes and protests over government plans to train new doctors , saying there enough doctors but better conditions and systems are needed to properly allocate them .

South Korea said on Saturday it will roll out tougher social distancing guidelines to curb the spread of coronavirus nationwide as it battles a new outbreak of the disease spreading from the capital, Seoul.
Pedestrians wearing masks to prevent the spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) walk in a shopping district in Seoul, South Korea, August 20, 2020.
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The Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (KCDC) reported 315 new domestic coronavirus infections as of midnight Friday, the latest in a string of triple digit increases in new local cases.
South Korea used advanced contact tracing and widespread testing to contain its first outbreak of the novel coronavirus, but Asia’s fourth-largest economy has experienced persistent outbreaks in recent weeks, mostly in and around densely populated Seoul and the surrounding areas.
The latest numbers take the country's tally to 17,002 with 309 deaths.
In Seoul and some surrounding cities, the government has reimposed second-tier social distancing rules, including restricting large gatherings, banning in-person church meetings while closing nightclubs, karaoke bars, buffets and cyber cafes.
The same guidelines will be imposed on other areas across the country effective Sunday. However, in some areas with fewer infections, the guidelines would be recommended rather than obligatory.
"If we don't curb the spread (of the virus) in early stages, this will grow as a large-scale wave. To us, there is nothing more important than focusing on responding to COVID-19," Health Minister Park Neung-hoo told a briefing on Saturday.
Health authorities have categorized social distancing rules in three stages - stage 1 being the least intense and stage 3 the toughest, where schools and businesses are urged to close.
"If we enhance the social distancing guidelines to the third stage, it is inevitable that they will take a toll on people's daily lives and economy. We urge you to the situation seriously," KCDC deputy director Kwon Jun-wook told a briefing.
Kwon said South Korea has provided anti-viral drug remdesivir to treat 143 patients at 35 hospitals, but access to the drug has been irregular due to issues on the supplier side.
In June, South Korea asked drugmaker Gilead Sciences Inc to supply enough remdesivir to treat more than 5,000 COVID-19 patients in preparation for a possible second wave of infections.
The Health Ministry also said it was postponing its decision to pursue policies boosting the number of medical students until the COVID-19 situation stabilises.
Thousands of South Korean doctors have staged strikes and protests over government plans to train new doctors, saying there enough doctors but better conditions and systems are needed to properly allocate them.
(REUTERS)
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france24--2020-08-22--Gandhi's iconic glasses sell for $340,000 in UK

Indian independence icon Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi was known for giving away old or unwanted pairs of glasses to those in need or who had helped him A pair of gold-plated glasses worn by Indian independence hero Mahatma Gandhi has sold in Britain for £260,000 ( about 288,000 euros , $ 340,000 ) , the auction house said .
`` We found them just four weeks ago in our letterbox , left there by a gentleman whose uncle had been given them by Gandhi himself , '' East Bristol Auctions wrote on Instagram after the sale late Friday .
`` An @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Thanks to all those who bid . ''
Gandhi was known for giving out old or unwanted pairs to those in need or those who had helped him .
The non-violent protestor gave the glasses to the vendor 's uncle while he was working for British Petroleum in South Africa during the 1920s or 30s , said the auction house .
The sale price smashed the original estimate of around £15,000 .
Auctioneer Andrew Stowe told Sky News earlier this month that the vendor had told him : `` If they 're no @ @ @ @ @ @ @ '' When he suggested they might be worth £15,000 , `` I think he nearly fell off his chair . ''

London (AFP) –
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A pair of gold-plated glasses worn by Indian independence hero Mahatma Gandhi has sold in Britain for £260,000 (about 288,000 euros, $340,000), the auction house said.
"We found them just four weeks ago in our letterbox, left there by a gentleman whose uncle had been given them by Gandhi himself," East Bristol Auctions wrote on Instagram after the sale late Friday.
"An incredible result for an incredible item! Thanks to all those who bid."
Gandhi was known for giving out old or unwanted pairs to those in need or those who had helped him.
The non-violent protestor gave the glasses to the vendor's uncle while he was working for British Petroleum in South Africa during the 1920s or 30s, said the auction house.
The sale price smashed the original estimate of around £15,000.
Auctioneer Andrew Stowe told Sky News earlier this month that the vendor had told him: "If they're no good, just throw them away."
When he suggested they might be worth £15,000, "I think he nearly fell off his chair."
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-22--Israel shells Hamas posts in Gaza after rocket fired

Palestinian militants attach a fire bomb to inflated plastic bags and condoms before launching it across the Gaza border into Israel Israeli tanks shelled military positions of Gaza 's ruling Hamas movement early Saturday , the army and Palestinian security sources said , hours after a rocket was launched at southern Israel .
A statement from the military said the Israeli `` tanks targeted Hamas military posts in the southern Gaza Strip '' in response to the Friday fire .
The rocket , which set off sirens in southern Israel , was intercepted by air defences without causing any casualties @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the Saturday tank fire targeted Hamas observation posts east of Rafah and east of Khan Yunis , causing no casualties .
Israel has bombed Gaza almost daily since August 6 in retaliation for the launch of balloons fitted with fire bombs , or , less frequently , rockets .
On Thursday night , Gaza militants fired a dozen rockets at Israel , which responded with air strikes on a rocket manufacturing plant and underground infrastructure .
Israeli firefighters meanwhile continued to put out blazes on farmland and scrub set alight by incendiary balloons @ @ @ @ @ @ @ was trying to broker a return to an informal truce .
Egypt has acted to calm repeated flare-ups in recent years to prevent any repetition of the three wars Israel and Hamas have fought since 2008 .
According to a source close to Hamas , the movement wants the extension of an industrial zone in the east of Gaza , and the construction of a new power line .
Hamas also wants the number of work permits in Israel issued to Gazans to be doubled to 10,000 once anti-coronavirus restrictions are lifted , @ @ @ @

Jerusalem (AFP) –
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Israeli tanks shelled military positions of Gaza's ruling Hamas movement early Saturday, the army and Palestinian security sources said, hours after a rocket was launched at southern Israel.
A statement from the military said the Israeli "tanks targeted Hamas military posts in the southern Gaza Strip" in response to the Friday fire.
The rocket, which set off sirens in southern Israel, was intercepted by air defences without causing any casualties or damage.
Gaza security sources said the Saturday tank fire targeted Hamas observation posts east of Rafah and east of Khan Yunis, causing no casualties.
Israel has bombed Gaza almost daily since August 6 in retaliation for the launch of balloons fitted with fire bombs, or, less frequently, rockets.
On Thursday night, Gaza militants fired a dozen rockets at Israel, which responded with air strikes on a rocket manufacturing plant and underground infrastructure.
Israeli firefighters meanwhile continued to put out blazes on farmland and scrub set alight by incendiary balloons launched from Gaza.
An Egyptian delegation was trying to broker a return to an informal truce.
Egypt has acted to calm repeated flare-ups in recent years to prevent any repetition of the three wars Israel and Hamas have fought since 2008.
According to a source close to Hamas, the movement wants the extension of an industrial zone in the east of Gaza, and the construction of a new power line.
Hamas also wants the number of work permits in Israel issued to Gazans to be doubled to 10,000 once anti-coronavirus restrictions are lifted, the source said.
© 2020 AFP


france24--2020-08-22--El Salvador children, priest launch initiatives to stave off hunger

Priest Moises Rutilio Moran checks the water filters in a pond where he breeds fish at his church in Santa Ana , El Salvador Priest Moises Rutilio Moran did n't sit twiddling his thumbs when the coronavirus pandemic struck and his church emptied -- like many Salvadorans , he got creative helping combat the country 's COVID-induced lack of food .
Determined that his church in the city of Santa Ana `` should n't be a burden on the community , '' Moran and his staff dug a pond and started selling affordable fish to the local community .
Some @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in El Chaparral , a village of 107 families , children began rolling up their sleeves , cultivating a vegetable garden that is providing food for the community .
The pandemic and its economic woes have sent the price of fruit and vegetables soaring , and left Salvadorans scheming plans to feed themselves .
`` I know how to preach , teach the catechism , manage groups , but launching a tilapias project , never , '' the 41-year-old priest told AFP .
After churches were closed to prevent the spread of the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ help 1,700 families , `` not just poor people with houses made of ( metal ) sheets '' but also lawyers and engineers who lost their jobs .
However , he soon realized he no longer had the means to pay for the electricity , water , telephone and internet at his church , Our Lady of Rosario .
Thus his project was born : provide cheap fish to the community whose payments would keep the church running `` in a reciprocal manner . ''
On a makeshift table next to the pond @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in charge of gutting the fish .
While the work is rewarding , Rivas told AFP he hopes the church `` opens soon because in these worrying times the faithful need us to accompany them . ''
After five months of closure , churches are tentatively hoping to reopen their doors on August 30 .
While many parish priests laid off their employees due to a lack of resources , Moran 's new enterprise means he 's actually hired new staff .
William Hernandez , 42 , was left unemployed after the pharmacy @ @ @ @ @ @ @ due to the crisis .
Now he wields a net and catches fish `` chosen by the customer '' while Omar Blanco , 29 , serves as one of two workers making deliveries by motorcycle .
`` It 's an excellent initiative discovering sources of work in the midst of a difficult situation in which we have to reinvent methods ( of generating income ) for the church , '' priest Oscar Lagos told AFP as he arrived with a cooler to buy some fish .
In the village of El Chaparral radishes @ @ @ @ @ @ @ spinach , blackberries and watermelons grown by the children are a welcome boost .
`` It 's an initiative in our El Chaparral community aimed at getting children and young people involved , '' said Victorina Alvarenga , a 32-year-old mother who joins her nine-year-old daughter Sheyla in the garden .
The vegetable patch is divided into plots named after the child in charge .
One part of the garden is dedicated to providing food for the elderly .
`` We 're teaching children the value of solidarity so that when they 're @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' said Alvarenga .
A month after planting seeds , the first harvest produced huge radishes that were enthusiastically `` ripped up '' by the children .
`` I 'm delighted because I 'm bringing fresh food to my family , '' said Sheyla proudly .
`` I do n't have any money but I bring healthy food . ''
The idea has caught on and in the neighboring village of Dimas Rodrigues a score of children have started another community garden .
`` We want to produce our own food so @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , '' said the group 's leader , Pedro Diaz , 22 .
Felicia Mijango , in charge of a union of rural communes , says the idea has its roots in the confinement of 10,000 Salvadoran refugees who fled to Ocotepeque in Honduras as civil war raged a decade ago .
The refugees could n't leave their UN camp that was surrounded by barbed wire so they started growing their own fruit and vegetables .
Mijango says her union actively supports around 100 family and community allotments with help from American and @ @ @

Santa Ana (El Salvador) (AFP) –
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Priest Moises Rutilio Moran didn't sit twiddling his thumbs when the coronavirus pandemic struck and his church emptied -- like many Salvadorans, he got creative helping combat the country's COVID-induced lack of food.
Determined that his church in the city of Santa Ana "shouldn't be a burden on the community," Moran and his staff dug a pond and started selling affordable fish to the local community.
Some 50 kilometers (30 miles) east in El Chaparral, a village of 107 families, children began rolling up their sleeves, cultivating a vegetable garden that is providing food for the community.
The pandemic and its economic woes have sent the price of fruit and vegetables soaring, and left Salvadorans scheming plans to feed themselves.
"I know how to preach, teach the catechism, manage groups, but launching a tilapias project, never," the 41-year-old priest told AFP.
After churches were closed to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, Moran started collecting groceries to help 1,700 families, "not just poor people with houses made of (metal) sheets" but also lawyers and engineers who lost their jobs.
However, he soon realized he no longer had the means to pay for the electricity, water, telephone and internet at his church, Our Lady of Rosario.
Thus his project was born: provide cheap fish to the community whose payments would keep the church running "in a reciprocal manner."
On a makeshift table next to the pond, 65-year-old church caretaker Roberto Rivas is in charge of gutting the fish.
While the work is rewarding, Rivas told AFP he hopes the church "opens soon because in these worrying times the faithful need us to accompany them."
After five months of closure, churches are tentatively hoping to reopen their doors on August 30.
While many parish priests laid off their employees due to a lack of resources, Moran's new enterprise means he's actually hired new staff.
William Hernandez, 42, was left unemployed after the pharmacy he worked in for 16 years closed due to the crisis.
Now he wields a net and catches fish "chosen by the customer" while Omar Blanco, 29, serves as one of two workers making deliveries by motorcycle.
"It's an excellent initiative discovering sources of work in the midst of a difficult situation in which we have to reinvent methods (of generating income) for the church," priest Oscar Lagos told AFP as he arrived with a cooler to buy some fish.
- 'Getting children involved' -
In the village of El Chaparral radishes, peppers, cabbages, tomatoes, spinach, blackberries and watermelons grown by the children are a welcome boost.
"It's an initiative in our El Chaparral community aimed at getting children and young people involved," said Victorina Alvarenga, a 32-year-old mother who joins her nine-year-old daughter Sheyla in the garden.
The vegetable patch is divided into plots named after the child in charge. One part of the garden is dedicated to providing food for the elderly.
"We're teaching children the value of solidarity so that when they're adults, they'll be good people," said Alvarenga.
A month after planting seeds, the first harvest produced huge radishes that were enthusiastically "ripped up" by the children.
"I'm delighted because I'm bringing fresh food to my family," said Sheyla proudly.
"I don't have any money but I bring healthy food."
The idea has caught on and in the neighboring village of Dimas Rodrigues a score of children have started another community garden.
"We want to produce our own food so we're not dependent on the market," said the group's leader, Pedro Diaz, 22.
Felicia Mijango, in charge of a union of rural communes, says the idea has its roots in the confinement of 10,000 Salvadoran refugees who fled to Ocotepeque in Honduras as civil war raged a decade ago.
The refugees couldn't leave their UN camp that was surrounded by barbed wire so they started growing their own fruit and vegetables.
Mijango says her union actively supports around 100 family and community allotments with help from American and Canadian NGOs.
© 2020 AFP