September 11, 2025

THE CLIFF NEWS

National Daily Bilingual Newspaper

Category: International

Thomas Tuchel Reacts to England’s 3-1 Loss to Senegal: “Frozen, but No Panic”

Thomas Tuchel faced his first defeat as England manager in a 3-1 friendly loss to Senegal on Tuesday — a result that marked a historic moment, with Senegal becoming the first African nation to beat England in an international fixture. Despite an early goal from Harry Kane at the City Ground in Nottingham, England were overrun by Senegal’s pace and intensity, conceding goals to Ismaïla Sarr, Habib Diarra, and Cheikh Sabaly. A late Jude Bellingham equaliser was disallowed by VAR for a handball by Levi Colwill, compounding England’s frustration and drawing boos from the home crowd for the second straight match. 🗣️ Tuchel: “We Were Frozen” In his post-match comments, Tuchel admitted the team lacked energy and urgency: “It felt a bit frozen, not active enough… I’m the first one to hate losing, but it’s not the World Cup next week — it’s in one year. We lost a test match, there’s no need to panic.” He insisted that the match offered useful lessons and that England’s current nine-point lead in World Cup qualifying remains a stronger indicator of progress than a friendly setback. 📉 Selection Experiment Backfires? Tuchel made 10 changes from the side that narrowly beat Andorra 1-0 last week, and the disjointed performance raised fresh concerns about squad cohesion and motivation — a problem that also haunted England in the late Southgate era. He acknowledged that England’s players may feel inhibited by the weight of expectations: “Maybe the latest history brings with it that they think everything is normal — we need to win, in style, and easily. That pressure maybe holds us down.” Tuchel also questioned the emotional intensity of his squad compared to their opponents: “I heard Senegal’s dressing room celebrating like crazy. I wondered, would we have done the same? Or would my players have just said ‘it’s only a friendly’? Maybe we need to learn from that.” 🔍 Key Takeaways 🗓️ What’s Next? England will return in September with two more qualifiers, where Tuchel hopes for a sharper, more expressive side as competition for World Cup squad spots heats up: “The demands will rise. The players know it’s a World Cup season and competition will get real.” For now, the message from Tuchel is clear: it’s not about panicking, but learning, adapting, and reigniting passion before the road to North America enters its final stretch.

Read More
Editor05 mins

Brazil Qualifies for 2026 FIFA World Cup with 1-0 Win Over Paraguay

Brazil has officially sealed its place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, following a 1-0 victory over Paraguay on Tuesday. The match’s only goal came from Vinicius Junior, who delivered under pressure and gave new head coach Carlo Ancelotti his first win in just his second game in charge of the Seleção. “We needed to win here for our people. Now we have more time to work, see what we can improve… We need to celebrate this. After September it is all about the World Cup,” Vinicius said after the match, as quoted by The Associated Press. 🇧🇷 Qualification Secured Brazil becomes the third CONMEBOL team to mathematically confirm a spot in the expanded 48-team 2026 World Cup, joining Argentina and Ecuador. With six automatic qualification spots available from South America, Brazil’s status is now secure. This also maintains Brazil’s flawless World Cup qualification record — they are the only nation to have qualified for every single men’s FIFA World Cup since its inception in 1930. 🇧🇷 Ancelotti Era Begins with Promise Ancelotti, who took over from Dorival Junior, began his Brazil stint with a 0-0 draw against Ecuador last week. Against Paraguay, however, Brazil showed renewed intent in attack — something that had been lacking during this qualifying campaign. Though Brazil has only scored more than one goal in one of its last six matches, the performance against Paraguay hinted at the attacking flair long associated with the national team — and which fans have been yearning to see revived. 🔜 What’s Next? With qualification locked in, Brazil’s September fixtures against Chile and Bolivia will likely serve as a platform for tactical experimentation and offensive rebuilding under Ancelotti. The Italian coach’s primary goal now is to inject rhythm, creativity, and joy back into a Brazilian side that has appeared overly conservative in recent months. As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico begins, all eyes will be on how Brazil shapes its squad and strategy to reclaim its position as the world’s top footballing power.

Read More
Editor04 mins

China Thanks India for Rescuing Crew of Fire-Hit Cargo Vessel off Kerala Coast

China has publicly expressed its gratitude to India for the swift and professional rescue of crew members aboard the Singapore-flagged cargo vessel MV Wan Hai 503, which caught fire off the Kerala coast on June 9 following an onboard explosion.Yu Jing, spokesperson for the Chinese Embassy in India, shared a message on social media platform X (formerly Twitter), confirming that 14 of the 22 crew members were Chinese nationals, including six from Taiwan. She praised the Indian Navy and the Mumbai Coast Guard for their prompt response and lifesaving efforts. “On June 9, MV Wan Hai 503 encountered onboard explosion and fire 44 nautical miles off Azhikkal, Kerala. Of the total 22 crew members on board, 14 are Chinese, including 6 from Taiwan. Our gratitude goes to the Indian Navy and the Mumbai Coast Guard for their prompt and professional rescue,” Yu Jing posted. According to official reports, 18 crew members were rescued, while four remain missing and five were injured in the incident. The vessel, which was en route from Colombo to Nhava Sheva (Mumbai), suffered an explosion in one of its containers, leading to a massive fire. It was sailing approximately 70 nautical miles off Kozhikode when the incident occurred and is currently adrift in the Arabian Sea.Search operations are still ongoing. China has extended its hopes for the safe recovery of the missing crew and a speedy recovery for the injured.Meanwhile, the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) has activated its Search and Rescue Aid Tool (SARAT) to predict drift patterns of any containers, debris, or individuals that may have gone overboard. Authorities are also monitoring for a potential oil spill, which could pose environmental and navigational risks.Forecast models indicate that, if oil has leaked, it may drift parallel to the Kerala coastline between June 10 and June 13. Local authorities have been advised to increase coastal surveillance and warn coastal communities to stay alert for any shoreline or marine hazards.

Read More
Editor03 mins

Ax-4 Mission to ISS Delayed Due to Technical Glitch in Falcon 9 Rocket

The highly anticipated Axiom-4 (Ax-4) mission to the International Space Station (ISS), which includes Indian astronaut Shubhanshu Shukla as part of its four-member crew, has been temporarily postponed. The delay was announced after SpaceX, the launch provider, detected a technical issue with its Falcon 9 rocket. Early Wednesday morning, SpaceX confirmed the postponement, citing the discovery of a liquid oxygen (LOx) leak during routine post-static fire inspections of the rocket booster. The static fire test is a critical pre-launch procedure that helps verify the rocket’s readiness. Announcing the delay on X (formerly Twitter), SpaceX stated, “Standing down from tomorrow’s Falcon 9 launch of Ax-4 to the @Space_Station to allow additional time for SpaceX teams to repair the LOx leak identified during post static fire booster inspections.” SpaceX also assured that a new launch date would be announced once the leak is fixed and range availability is confirmed. The Ax-4 mission, operated by Axiom Space, is particularly significant as it marks the first fully commercial human spaceflight to the ISS with Indian participation. Shubhanshu Shukla’s inclusion in the crew is a moment of pride for India and a milestone in the country’s growing involvement in global space exploration. More details are expected in the coming days as SpaceX works on resolving the technical issue.

Read More
Editor02 mins

Nationwide Protests Erupt Over Immigration Raids; Over 4,100 Troops Deployed in Los Angeles

As demonstrations over the immigration raids entered their fourth consecutive day in Los Angeles, U.S. President Donald Trump approved the deployment of an additional 2,000 National Guard troops to manage potential unrest, according to a report by the Associated Press. The Pentagon also confirmed the deployment of 700 Marines to downtown Los Angeles to assist the National Guard amid growing public agitation and citywide disruptions. However, LA Police Chief Jim McDonnell expressed concerns about the Marines being deployed without prior coordination, calling it a “significant logistical and operational challenge,” even as he assured the public of the department’s readiness to manage large-scale protests. The protests are in response to the Trump administration’s intensified immigration enforcement actions, which led to confrontations between demonstrators and law enforcement officials. Intelligence agencies have pointed to a combination of factors behind the unrest, including the immigration raids themselves and the increasing federal military presence in the city. Protests Sparked by Immigration Crackdown The unrest began last Friday when dozens of day laborers and undocumented individuals gathered in the parking lot of a hardware store in Los Angeles to protest after federal immigration officers conducted widespread raids across Southern California. More than 40 arrests were made citywide by federal authorities on that day alone. Over the weekend, tensions escalated further. On Saturday, LAPD arrested 29 individuals for refusing to disperse, and by Sunday, 21 more were taken into custody on charges including assault on police officers, use of incendiary devices, and theft. Police Response and Escalation In a statement, the Los Angeles Police Department confirmed the use of tear gas, rubber bullets, and other crowd-control methods—over 600 less-than-lethal munitions were used. Five officers reportedly sustained minor injuries. Visuals from Monday captured the intense atmosphere as police dispersed demonstrators with flash-bangs in Santa Ana, pushing through busy commercial zones while civilians and workers scrambled for safety. Labor Leader Arrested, Rally Held On Monday, thousands gathered outside City Hall in support of labor leader David Huerta, who had been arrested for his participation in the protests. Huerta, president of the Service Employees International Union (SEIU) California, which advocates for janitors, security personnel, and other essential workers, was released later that day on a $50,000 bond. Family members of those detained during the raids also staged a protest, demanding their immediate release. Federal Deployment Triggers Political Backlash In a controversial move, the Trump administration authorized the deployment of 2,000 National Guard troops last week, claiming it was necessary to restore order in what it termed a state of “lawlessness” in California. This action was met with strong opposition from California Governor Gavin Newsom, who called the move “purposefully inflammatory” and warned that it would only worsen tensions. On Monday, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced via social media that 700 Marines were being deployed to further support crowd-control operations. Just hours later, President Trump authorized an additional 2,000 National Guard troops, bringing the total federally activated force in LA to over 4,100. Historical Parallel The Brennan Center for Justice noted that the last instance of the National Guard being activated without a governor’s consent occurred in 1965, when President Lyndon B. Johnson dispatched troops to protect a civil rights march in Alabama. As the situation in Los Angeles continues to evolve, concerns remain over the impact of military involvement in civil demonstrations and the potential for further escalation.

Read More
Editor06 mins

Chad Suspends Visas for U.S. Citizens in Retaliation to Trump’s Renewed Travel Ban

In a swift and symbolic act of diplomatic retaliation, Chad’s President Mahamat Idriss Deby announced the suspension of visa issuance for U.S. citizens, following former U.S. President Donald Trump’s reimposition of a travel ban targeting 12 countries, including Chad. 🔴 What Happened? On Wednesday, Trump reinstated a controversial policy from his first presidential term, citing “deficient screening and vetting procedures” and refusal by certain nations to accept deported nationals. The 12 countries affected by the new ban are: The new ban also includes heightened restrictions on visitors from seven other nations and is set to take effect from Monday at 12:01 a.m. In response, President Deby declared via Facebook that Chad would invoke the principle of reciprocity and suspend U.S. visas, making it clear that while Chad lacks vast resources, “Chad has his dignity and pride.” 🌍 Regional Reactions: African nations—seven of which are included in the ban—are responding in varied ways: ⚖️ Diplomatic Fallout: This development threatens to deepen tensions between the U.S. and several African nations, at a time when global geopolitical alliances are shifting. Chad’s bold move underscores growing frustration in parts of the Global South over perceived unilateral and discriminatory visa policies. Analysts warn that the decision could affect military cooperation, counterterrorism efforts, and regional diplomatic goodwill, especially in areas where U.S. presence or aid remains critical. ⏭️ What’s Next? The reciprocal visa suspension by Chad is currently indefinite, with no clear path to reversal unless the U.S. revisits or clarifies its policy. With diplomatic channels expected to be activated behind the scenes, attention will now turn to whether other affected nations will follow Chad’s lead—or opt for more conciliatory approaches like Sierra Leone. This incident once again highlights how visa policies can ripple far beyond immigration, shaping relationships, national pride, and international power dynamics.

Read More
Editor04 mins

NASA’s Mars Odyssey Captures Stunning Image of Arsia Mons Above Martian Clouds

In a breathtaking cosmic snapshot, NASA’s 2001 Mars Odyssey orbiter has captured Arsia Mons, one of Mars’ tallest volcanoes, appearing to rise majestically above a veil of greenish atmospheric haze. The image was taken just before dawn on May 2, 2025, offering a rare and awe-inspiring glimpse of the Red Planet’s horizon. The photograph presents a scene eerily reminiscent of Earth — a massive peak breaking through morning clouds — but it’s on Mars, highlighting the alien beauty of our planetary neighbor. The volcano, Arsia Mons, towers roughly 20 kilometers high and stretches over 400 kilometers wide, making it one of the solar system’s largest. A New Angle on the Red Planet This unique image was made possible when Odyssey’s THEMIS (Thermal Emission Imaging System) instrument pivoted 90 degrees to capture a side-on view of the Martian atmosphere and surface. Although THEMIS was originally designed to study surface composition, scientists began repurposing it in 2023 to explore Mars’ upper atmosphere by photographing the horizon. By doing so, researchers can now observe seasonal variations in clouds and dust, offering valuable clues about atmospheric dynamics on Mars — data crucial for future manned missions and climate studies. With this latest achievement, Mars Odyssey, the longest-serving spacecraft in orbit around another planet, continues to expand humanity’s understanding of Mars, not just from above, but from perspectives that mirror the view astronauts might one day see.

Read More
Editor02 mins

Carlos Alcaraz’s epic comeback in the longest-ever French Open men’s singles final

Carlos Alcaraz’s epic comeback in the longest-ever French Open men’s singles final sparked a massive wave of admiration and excitement on social media. The 22-year-old Spaniard fought back from two sets down to defeat world number one Jannik Sinner in a gripping five-set marathon lasting 5 hours and 29 minutes, winning 4-6, 6-7(4), 6-4, 7-6(3), 7-6(10-2). Fans and commentators alike hailed the match as one of the greatest in modern tennis history, praising Alcaraz’s resilience, physical endurance, and calm under pressure—especially after saving three match points. The Spaniard’s grit and sportsmanship won widespread acclaim, while Sinner, who pushed his rival to the brink, received heartfelt respect for his intensity and fighting spirit. A special highlight was the striking parallel between Alcaraz and his idol Rafael Nadal: both won their fifth Grand Slam title at the same age. Alcaraz called it “destiny,” saying it was a stat he would cherish forever. This coincidence was celebrated online as a symbolic passing of the torch in Spanish tennis, reinforcing Alcaraz’s rising stature as the sport’s new star. The match captivated not only tennis enthusiasts but also casual viewers and sports figures around the world, who praised the drama, breathtaking rallies, and emotional moments that unfolded on the clay courts of Roland Garros. Social media buzzed with clips, analyses, and heartfelt reactions, cementing this final’s place as an unforgettable classic in tennis lore.

Read More
Editor02 mins

‘Ballerina’ Opens Below Expectations Despite John Wick Legacy and Ana de Armas’ Star Power

Lionsgate’s latest action-thriller Ballerina, a spin-off from the acclaimed John Wick franchise, is off to a slower-than-expected start at the North American box office. Despite being showcased in 3,409 theatres and led by popular star Ana de Armas, the R-rated film failed to meet initial projections. Forecasts had earlier suggested a strong opening of over $35 million, but current estimates now place the debut in the mid-$20 million range, with the studio holding onto hope for a $30 million weekend. The film’s Friday earnings—including $3.5 million from Thursday previews—totaled under $11 million, raising concerns among industry insiders. “There’s always concern when a film with great audience reactions doesn’t deliver at the box office,” said one distribution insider. “We need all the wins we can get.” This sluggish performance is particularly surprising given the strength of the John Wick franchise and de Armas’ rising global profile. While R-rated films typically depend on strong evening and weekend turnout, Ballerina faces stiff competition. Disney’s live-action Lilo and Stitch remake, now in its third weekend, continues to draw steady crowds and may even surpass Ballerina in weekend totals—an unexpected outcome for what is seen as Lionsgate’s flagship franchise. Ballerina is the fifth installment in the John Wick universe and is set between John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum (2019) and John Wick: Chapter 4 (2023). Directed by Len Wiseman and written by Shay Hatten, the film is marketed as From the World of John Wick: Ballerina. Despite the underwhelming domestic start, studio insiders remain optimistic that strong international numbers and positive word-of-mouth could help the film recover in the coming weeks.

Read More
Editor03 mins

Israeli Forces Detain Greta Thunberg, Others Aboard ‘Freedom Flotilla’ in International Waters

In the early hours of Monday, high drama unfolded off the coast of Egypt as Israeli naval forces intercepted and detained the crew of the Madleen, a vessel carrying humanitarian aid to Gaza as part of the Freedom Flotilla. The ship, surrounded around 2 a.m. local time (5:30 a.m. IST) in Egyptian waters near Port Said, was attempting to break the Israeli blockade on Gaza to deliver critical supplies including flour, baby formula, and crutches. Among the 12 international activists on board were Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg and French Member of the European Parliament (MEP) Rima Hassan. The vessel was reportedly boarded under the cover of darkness after five Israeli speedboats surrounded it and drones hovered overhead. Israeli forces ordered the ship to turn back, boarded it forcibly, detained all individuals on board, and confiscated their mobile phones, effectively cutting off all communication. According to Francesca Albanese, UN Special Rapporteur, the interception happened in international waters. Rima Hassan confirmed the detentions via a post on X, stating: “The crew of the Freedom Flotilla was arrested by the Israeli army in international waters around 2 a.m.” The Israeli foreign ministry later downplayed the incident in a series of posts on X, referring to the Madleen as a “selfie yacht” carrying “celebrities,” and mocked the mission as a mere “media provocation.” The ministry claimed the vessel carried “less than a single truckload” of aid and emphasized that real humanitarian efforts were ongoing, noting that the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation had distributed nearly 11 million meals. “All passengers of the ‘selfie yacht’ are safe and unharmed. They were provided with sandwiches and water… the show is over,” the ministry posted. It also shared a photograph of Thunberg, smiling, with the caption that she was “currently on her way to Israel, safe and in good spirits.” Prior to being detained, activists aboard the Madleen had reported that Israeli forces used drones to spray the ship with a white, chemical-like substance and were jamming communications while playing disturbing sounds over the radio. Hay Sha Wiya, press officer for the Freedom Flotilla Coalition, confirmed the ship was “under assault” and struggling to maintain contact. The incident has sparked fresh global attention on the Gaza blockade and the treatment of humanitarian missions in the region.

Read More
Editor04 mins
Switch Language »