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Brittney Griner to Miss Two WNBA Games for Mental Health

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Brittney Griner to Miss Two WNBA Games for Mental Health
Brittney Griner to Miss Two WNBA Games for Mental Health (Image: Lorie Shaull)

Brittney Griner, the Phoenix Mercury center, will miss at least two games to focus on her mental health, the team announced on Saturday. Griner will not travel with the team on its upcoming two-game road trip to Chicago and Indiana (July 30-August 1). The Mercury fully supports Brittney and will continue to work together on a timeline for her return.

Must Read: Sandra Bullock and Keanu Reeves: The Truth About Their Relationship

Mental Health in Sports

Griner is the latest high-profile athlete to prioritize mental health. In recent years, Black women at the top of their disciplines have helped drive the conversation about mental health as a key and shame-free component of human health. Tennis phenom Naomi Osaka withdrew from the French Open in 2021 after her pleas to skip media interviews in the name of her mental health were rebuffed by tournament officials. Superstar gymnast Simone Biles also withdrew from several events at the Tokyo Olympics, citing mental health as the reason.

Conclusion

Mental health is an important issue that affects everyone, including athletes. It is encouraging to see high-profile athletes like Brittney Griner taking steps to prioritize their mental health and well-being. The support shown by the Phoenix Mercury is also commendable and sets a positive example for other teams and organizations.

Sandra Bullock and Keanu Reeves: The Truth About Their Relationship

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Sandra Bullock and Keanu Reeves: The Truth About Their Relationship
Sandra Bullock and Keanu Reeves: The Truth About Their Relationship (Image: Frazer Harrison/Getty Images)

Sandra Bullock and Keanu Reeves are two of the most celebrated actors in Hollywood, known for their roles in iconic films. They have established themselves as mega stars with impressive filmographies. The two first met while starring in the 1994 film “Speed” and later reunited onscreen over a decade later, in 2006’s “The Lake House”. Their on-screen chemistry was undeniable, and their collaboration was a remarkable sight to witness. This has led to rumors and speculation about their off-screen relationship.

Must Read: What to Do When You’re Bored at Home

Sandra Bullock and Keanu Reeves Dating Rumors

Despite the rumors, Sandra Bullock and Keanu Reeves never dated. In a recent interview with Esquire magazine, Bullock confirmed that they were never more than friends. She also revealed that if they had dated, and he broke up with her, it would’ve been impossible to stay mad at her close friend.

Sandra Bullock and Keanu Reeves Friendship

Bullock and Reeves have maintained a close friendship over the years. In the same Esquire interview, Bullock said that she prefers having Reeves as a friend and has only become “more in awe” of him as time goes on. She added that she’s glad nothing romantic ever transpired because they’ve built a beautiful friendship together.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Sandra Bullock and Keanu Reeves never dated, despite playing each other’s love interest twice on-screen. They developed a crush on each other but never acted on it. They are now both in relationships but have come out recently to admit they both had a crush on the other. Their friendship has endured over the years, and they continue to be close friends. Their on-screen chemistry continues to captivate audiences, and their off-screen bond remains strong.

How Verstappen dominated the Belgian GP from sixth to First – race report

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How Verstappen dominated the Belgian GP from sixth to First
How Verstappen dominated the Belgian GP from sixth to First (Image: John Thys/AFP/Getty Images)

Max Verstappen showed once again why he is the favorite to win the 2023 Formula One world championship, as he cruised to a dominant victory in the Belgian Grand Prix on Sunday. The Red Bull driver overcame a five-place grid penalty for changing his engine and stormed his way from sixth to first in a masterful display of overtaking and pace. He crossed the finish line 17.8 seconds ahead of his teammate Sergio Perez, who completed a one-two for Red Bull. Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz took third place, his second podium of the season.

A chaotic start

The race started under wet conditions, with all the drivers opting for intermediate tires. Verstappen made a great getaway from sixth on the grid and quickly moved up to third by the end of the first lap. He passed Lando Norris for second on lap two and then set his sights on pole-sitter Valtteri Bottas.

Meanwhile, behind him, there was chaos and carnage. Lewis Hamilton, who started second, had a poor start and dropped to fourth. He then collided with Fernando Alonso in the first corner, damaging his front wing and puncturing his tire. He had to pit for repairs and rejoined at the back of the field.

Alonso was also out of the race, along with George Russell, who was hit by Sebastian Vettel at the same corner. Vettel spun and continued, but Russell’s Williams was badly damaged and he had to retire.

The safety car was deployed to clear the debris, and the race resumed on lap five.

A masterful drive

Verstappen wasted no time in attacking Bottas for the lead. He made a bold move on the inside of Les Combes on lap six and took the lead with ease. He then pulled away from the rest of the pack, setting the fastest laps and extending his gap.

Bottas was struggling with his tires and soon came under pressure from Perez, who had also made a brilliant start from ninth on the grid. Perez passed Bottas for second on lap nine and then tried to chase down Verstappen.

However, Verstappen was in a league of his own, and Perez could not match his pace. Verstappen continued to increase his lead, and by lap 20, he was more than 10 seconds ahead of Perez.

The rest of the race was uneventful for Verstappen, who controlled his pace and managed his tires. He made his only pit stop on lap 25, switching to a fresh set of intermediates. He rejoined in the lead and maintained it until the end.

He took the chequered flag on lap 44, after 1 hour, 23 minutes, and 5.7 seconds of racing. He celebrated his ninth win of the season, and his eighth in a row.

A disappointing day

While Verstappen enjoyed a perfect day, his main rival Hamilton had a nightmare. The Mercedes driver had to fight his way back from last place after his early pit stop. He made some overtakes but also made some mistakes.

He spun at La Source on lap 11, losing some positions. He then had a close call with Kimi Raikkonen on lap 15, when he tried to pass him at Les Combes. He locked up his brakes and went wide, narrowly avoiding contact with Raikkonen.

He made another pit stop on lap 26, switching to soft tires. He hoped to gain some time on the drying track, but it was too risky. He struggled with grip and graining and had to pit again on lap 38 for another set of intermediates.

He finished the race in ninth place, scoring only two points. He lost more ground to Verstappen in the championship standings, falling behind by 92 points.

Bottas also had a disappointing day for Mercedes. He finished fourth, behind Sainz. He was unable to challenge Perez for second place, and he also received a 10-second time penalty for speeding in the pit lane.

Mercedes lost more ground to Red Bull in the constructors’ championship as well. They are now 156 points behind their rivals.

A thrilling race

The Belgian Grand Prix was a thrilling race for the fans and spectators at Spa-Francorchamps, as well as those watching online or on TV. The race had everything: drama, action, overtakes, crashes, strategy, and suspense.

The race also featured some standout performances from other drivers besides Verstappen and Perez. Sainz drove a superb race for Ferrari, scoring his second podium of the season. He held off Bottas for third place and also set the fastest lap of the race.

Norris also impressed for McLaren, finishing fifth after starting 11th. He made some great overtakes, and also showed his maturity and composure. He was involved in a close battle with Charles Leclerc for fifth place, and he gave him enough room to avoid a collision.

Leclerc finished sixth for Ferrari, ahead of his former teammate Vettel, who recovered from his spin to finish seventh for Aston Martin. Esteban Ocon finished eighth for Alpine, ahead of Hamilton and Pierre Gasly, who completed the top 10 for AlphaTauri.

The race also featured some disappointments and misfortunes for other drivers besides Hamilton and Bottas. Daniel Ricciardo had a poor race for McLaren, finishing 11th after starting eighth. He lost some positions at the start and then had a slow pit stop.

Lance Stroll also had a bad day for Aston Martin, finishing 12th after starting seventh. He had a puncture on lap one and then had a drive-through penalty for overtaking under the safety car.

Nikita Mazepin was the only other driver to retire from the race, besides Hamilton, Alonso, and Russell. He crashed out on lap 31, after losing control of his Haas at Pouhon.

A memorable weekend

The Belgian Grand Prix was a memorable weekend for Verstappen and Red Bull, as well as their fans and supporters. They showed their dominance and superiority in Belgium, and they extended their lead in both championships.

Verstappen also achieved some personal milestones in Belgium. He scored his 50th podium finish in F1, and he equaled Ayrton Senna’s record of eight consecutive wins in a season.

He dedicated his win to his fans who came to support him at Spa-Francorchamps, following in the footsteps of his father, Jos Verstappen, who became the first Dutch driver to win the Belgian Grand Prix in 1994.

“I’m very happy to win here,” Verstappen said after the race. “It’s an amazing track, and with so many Dutch fans here as well, it’s incredible. It’s been a perfect weekend.”

The next race will be the Dutch Grand Prix at Zandvoort, Verstappen’s home race. He will be hoping to continue his winning streak and delight his home crowd with another victory.

Will Verstappen win his ninth race in a row? Will Hamilton bounce back from his setback? Will anyone challenge Red Bull’s dominance? Stay tuned for the next chapter of the 2023 Formula One season.

What to Do When You’re Bored at Home

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What to Do When You’re Bored at Home
What to Do When You’re Bored at Home (Image: tracidmitchell.com)

Are you feeling bored at home? Do you feel like you have nothing to do or nothing interesting to do? Do you want to make the most of your time and have some fun and productive activities?

If you answered yes to any of these questions, then this blog post is for you. In this post, we will share with you some creative and fun things to do when you’re bored at home, as well as some tips on how to stay motivated and happy.

Creative and Fun Things to Do When You’re Bored at Home

There are many ways to unleash your creativity and have fun when you’re bored at home. Here are some ideas:

  • Try a new recipe. You can invent a new recipe with the items you have on hand. Or crack open a cookbook, or search online, for a delicious-sounding recipe. Cooking can be a great way to express yourself and enjoy the fruits of your labor.
  • Have a pamper night. If you’re stuck at home (or the spa is out of your budget), have a pamper day! This is everything you need for a proper at-home spa day. You can give yourself a manicure and pedicure, apply a soothing face mask, do a guided meditation, take a bath, light some candles, and relax. Your skin and your mind will thank you.
  • Write a short story. Tell the story of something that happened to you, or bust out your creative writing skills and create a fiction story. You can also use an online tool like [graphic_art(“a short story”)] to generate an image based on your story.
  • Look through old photo albums. Pull out photo albums from your younger days, and take a fun trip down memory lane.
  • Listen to an audiobook. Grab a FREE 30-day Audible trial (plus 2 free audiobooks) from Amazon to listen at no cost. Feel free to pick something from the productive list to do while you listen!
  • Do a puzzle. If you enjoy that sort of thing. Putting together a puzzle can be a relaxing and satisfying activity that can also challenge your brain and improve your concentration. You can choose a puzzle that suits your level of difficulty and interest, whether it’s a 500-piece landscape or a 1000-piece masterpiece. You can also invite your family or friends to join you in solving the puzzle, or do it by yourself as a solo project.
  • Make a music-video playlist to play on your TV. This is almost like being at a bar, sort of. Making a music-video playlist to play on your TV can be a great way to enjoy some visual and auditory stimulation, discover new artists and songs, and dance along to some groovy beats. You can use YouTube, Vevo, or any other video streaming service to create your playlist. You can also choose a theme for your playlist, such as 80s hits, pop divas, or rock anthems.

Productive Things to Do When You’re Bored at Home

There are also many ways to be productive and accomplish something when you’re bored at home. Here are some ideas:

  • Start a book you’ve been meaning to read. It’s time to finally check out what (at least the beginning of) Swann’s Way is all about. Or maybe you want to read Harry Potter, The Hunger Games, or The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo? Reading a book can be a great way to expand your knowledge, improve your vocabulary, stimulate your imagination, and escape from reality for a while. You can choose a book that interests you from any genre or topic, whether it’s fiction or non-fiction, romance or thriller, history or science.
  • Play a video game. If you’re without a video game system, there are tons of free options online. Playing a video game can be a fun and engaging way to pass the time, improve your skills, challenge yourself, and have some fun. You can choose a video game that suits your preferences and goals, whether it’s action or adventure, strategy or puzzle, casual or hardcore, single-player, or multiplayer. You can also play online with other people or offline by yourself.
  • Read some humor writing. Delight your mind with the writings of Jack Handey or Samantha Irby. Reading some humor writing can be a great way to lighten up your mood, laugh out loud, and appreciate the wit and wisdom of some talented writers. You can find humor writing online or in books, such as The New Yorker’s Shouts & Murmurs, McSweeney’s Internet Tendency, or The Onion. Humor writing can be satirical, absurd, sarcastic, or self-deprecating, depending on the style and tone of the writer.
  • Do a guided meditation. Maybe this one by Puff Daddy? Doing a guided meditation can be a great way to relax your body and mind, reduce stress and anxiety, increase your awareness and mindfulness, and enhance your well-being and happiness. You can find guided meditations online or in apps, such as Headspace, Calm, or Insight Timer . Guided meditations can be focused on different themes and goals, such as breathing, gratitude, sleep, or positivity.
  • Have a yoga break. If you don’t want to head to a studio, there are a bunch of great free yoga classes you can take online. Having a yoga break can be a great way to stretch your muscles, improve your posture and flexibility, strengthen your core and balance, and calm your nerves and emotions. You can find yoga classes online or in apps, such as Yoga with Adriene , Down Dog , or Glo . Yoga classes can be tailored to your level and needs, whether it’s beginner or advanced, gentle or intense, short or long.
  • Go for a walk. It’s still allowed, and it can do wonders for your mind-set. Going for a walk can be a great way to get some fresh air and sunshine, exercise your body and heart, explore your surroundings and nature, and clear your head and thoughts. You can go for a walk in your neighborhood or in a park, alone or with someone else, with music or without music. You can also use this time to listen to a podcast, an audiobook, or some music.
  • Practice deep breathing. I know it might sound as though it won’t do much, but slowing down and paying attention to your breath can really change how you feel both mentally and physically. Practicing deep breathing can be a great way to regulate your nervous system, lower your blood pressure and heart rate, ease your tension and pain, and boost your energy and mood. You can practice deep breathing anytime and anywhere, by inhaling deeply through your nose and exhaling slowly through your mouth. You can also follow some simple techniques and exercises to enhance your deep breathing practice.
  • Learn something new. Whether it’s a language, a skill, a hobby, or a topic, learning something new can be a great way to stimulate your brain, expand your horizons, enrich your life, and have some fun. You can learn something new online or offline, using various resources and methods, such as courses, books, videos, podcasts, or apps. You can also choose something that interests you or challenges you, whether it’s Spanish, guitar, knitting, or astronomy.

How to Stay Motivated and Happy When You’re Bored at Home

Sometimes, doing things when you’re bored at home can be hard or not enough to make you feel motivated and happy. That’s why it’s also important to take care of yourself and your mental health when you’re bored at home. Here are some tips on how to stay motivated and happy when you’re bored at home:

  • Set some goals and track your progress. Having some goals can give you a sense of direction and purpose, as well as a feeling of achievement and satisfaction. You can set some goals for yourself that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART), and track your progress using a journal, a planner, or an app. You can also reward yourself for reaching your goals or milestones, with something that makes you happy.
  • Keep a routine and stick to it. Having a routine can give you a sense of structure and stability, as well as a feeling of control and order. You can keep a routine for yourself that includes your waking up time, your meal times, your work times, your break times, your exercise times, and your bedtime. You can also use an app like Habitica to gamify your routine and make it more fun.
  • Stay connected with others. Having social support can help you cope with stress, loneliness, and boredom. You can stay connected with others by calling, texting, video chatting, or emailing them regularly. You can also join online communities or groups that share your interests or hobbies. For example, you can join Reddit, Meetup, or Facebook Groups to find people who like the same things as you do.

Juventus V AC Milan, Soccer Champions Tour 2023: The Highlights

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Juventus V AC Milan, Soccer Champions Tour 2023: The Highlights
Juventus V AC Milan, Soccer Champions Tour 2023: The Highlights (Image: Getty Images)

Juventus and AC Milan, two of the most successful and popular teams in Italian soccer, faced each other in a friendly match as part of the Soccer Champions Tour 2023 in Los Angeles on Thursday night. The game ended in a 2-2 draw after 90 minutes, with Juventus winning 4-3 on penalties.

A thrilling first half

The game started with a high tempo and intensity, as both teams showed their attacking intent and quality. Juventus took the lead in the 12th minute, when Federico Chiesa scored a stunning volley from outside the box after a cross from Timothy Weah. The U.S. international, who joined Juventus from Lille this summer, was one of the standout performers for the Bianconeri, along with fellow American Weston McKennie.

AC Milan responded quickly and equalized in the 18th minute, when Olivier Giroud headed in a cross from Christian Pulisic. The French striker, who signed for Milan from Chelsea this summer, showed his aerial prowess and clinical finishing. Pulisic, another U.S. star who joined Milan from Chelsea this summer, was also impressive for the Rossoneri, along with Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Rafael Leão.

The game continued to be an open and entertaining affair, with both teams creating chances and testing the goalkeepers. In the 38th minute, AC Milan took the lead, when Leão scored a brilliant solo goal after dribbling past three defenders and slotting the ball past Wojciech Szczęsny. The Portuguese winger celebrated his goal by doing a backflip in front of the fans.

Juventus tried to level the score before halftime, but AC Milan’s defense held firm and Mike Maignan made some crucial saves.

A more balanced second half

The second half started with a bang, as Juventus equalized in the 47th minute, when Daniele Rugani scored from a free kick that curled into the top corner. The Italian defender, who returned to Juventus after a loan spell at Cagliari last season, showed his accuracy and technique.

The game became more balanced and cautious in the second half, as both teams made several substitutions and tried to avoid injuries. Juventus had more possession and control, while AC Milan relied on counterattacks and set pieces.

Both teams had some opportunities to win the game in regulation time, but none of them could find the decisive goal. The game went to a penalty shootout to decide the winner.

A dramatic penalty shootout

The penalty shootout was as exciting and tense as the game itself, with both teams missing some of their shots and forcing the shootout into sudden death.

AC Milan went first and scored their first three penalties through Davide Calabria, Jens Petter Hauge and Pierre Kalulu. Juventus also scored their first three penalties through Moise Kean, Alex Sandro and Filip Kostić.

AC Milan missed their fourth penalty, when Lorenzo Colombo’s shot was saved by Szczęsny. Juventus had a chance to win the game, but Maignan denied Nicolò Fagioli’s attempt.

AC Milan scored their fifth penalty through Daniel Maldini, the son of club legend Paolo Maldini. Juventus also scored their fifth penalty through Dejan Kulusevski.

AC Milan missed their sixth penalty, when Charles De Ketelaere’s shot hit the post. Juventus had another chance to win the game, and this time they took it. Matías Soulé scored the winning penalty for Juventus, sending Maignan the wrong way and sparking celebrations among his teammates and fans.

A great spectacle of soccer

The game between Juventus and AC Milan was a great spectacle of soccer for the fans in Los Angeles and around the world. The game had everything: goals, skills, drama, passion and rivalry. Both teams showed their quality and potential for the upcoming season in Serie A and Europe.

The game also featured some of the best players from the U.S., who showcased their talent and made their country proud. Weah, McKennie and Pulisic were among the best players on the pitch, while other Americans like Bryan Reynolds and Gianluca Busio also got some minutes.

The Soccer Champions Tour 2023 is a great opportunity for fans to watch some of the best teams and players in the world in action. The tour will continue with more exciting games in different cities across the U.S., such as Real Madrid vs Barcelona in Miami, Manchester United vs Liverpool in New York, and Bayern Munich vs Paris Saint-Germain in Chicago.

How to Watch the 2023 Women’s World Cup: Schedule, Teams, and More

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How to Watch the 2023 Women’s World Cup: Schedule, Teams, and More
How to Watch the 2023 Women’s World Cup: Schedule, Teams, and More (Image: Getty/Goal)

The 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup is the biggest event in women’s soccer, and it’s happening right now in Australia and New Zealand. If you’re a fan of the beautiful game, you don’t want to miss this historic tournament that features 32 teams from six continents competing for the ultimate glory.

In this article, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about the 2023 Women’s World Cup, including how to watch it, who’s playing, what the schedule is, and what to expect from the matches.

How to Watch the 2023 Women’s World Cup

The 2023 Women’s World Cup is being broadcasted by various networks around the world, depending on your location. Here are some of the main options for different regions:

  • United States: Fox Sports and Telemundo have the exclusive rights to air all 64 matches live in English and Spanish respectively. You can also stream the games online via Fox Sports app or website, or Telemundo Deportes app or website.
  • United Kingdom: BBC has the exclusive rights to air all 64 matches live on TV, radio, and online. You can watch the games on BBC One, BBC Two, BBC Four, or BBC Red Button. You can also stream the games online via BBC iPlayer or the BBC Sport website.
  • Australia: SBS and Optus Sport have the exclusive rights to air all 64 matches live on TV and online. You can watch the games on SBS TV, SBS Viceland, or SBS On Demand. You can also stream the games online via Optus Sport app or website.
  • New Zealand: Sky Sport has the exclusive rights to air all 64 matches live on TV and online. You can watch the games on Sky Sport channels or Sky Go app. You can also stream the games online via Sky Sport Now app or website.

If you’re in a different region, you can check out this list of official broadcasters for the 2023 Women’s World Cup to find out where to watch the games in your country.

Who’s Playing in the 2023 Women’s World Cup

The 2023 Women’s World Cup features 32 teams from six confederations: Africa (CAF), Asia (AFC), Europe (UEFA), North and Central America (CONCACAF), Oceania (OFC), and South America (CONMEBOL). This is the first time that the tournament has expanded from 24 to 32 teams, giving more opportunities for smaller nations to participate.

The teams are divided into eight groups of four, with each team playing three matches against their group opponents. The top two teams from each group advance to the knockout stage, where they play single-elimination matches until the final.

Here are the groups for the 2023 Women’s World Cup:

  • Group A: New Zealand (hosts), Norway, Thailand, Cameroon
  • Group B: Australia (hosts), Republic of Ireland, Nigeria, China PR
  • Group C: Netherlands (defending champions), Brazil, Canada, Zambia
  • Group D: England, Japan, Chile, Costa Rica
  • Group E: Germany, Sweden, South Africa, Korea DPR
  • Group F: France, United States (current world number one), Colombia, New Zealand
  • Group G: Spain, Italy, Mexico, Vietnam
  • Group H: Argentina, Korea Republic, Scotland, Ghana

What’s the Schedule for the 2023 Women’s World Cup

The 2023 Women’s World Cup kicked off on July 20 with the opening match between New Zealand and Norway at Eden Park in Auckland. The group stage will last until August 1, with four matches being played every day at different venues across Australia and New Zealand.

The knockout stage will begin on August 5 with the round of 16 matches and end on August 20 with the final at Stadium Australia in Sydney. The third-place match will be played on August 19 at Brisbane Stadium.

Here are some of the key dates and matches for the 2023 Women’s World Cup:

  • July 20: Opening match – New Zealand vs Norway
  • July 21: Australia vs Republic of Ireland
  • July 23: Netherlands vs Brazil
  • July 24: England vs Japan
  • July 25: France vs United States
  • July 28: Final group stage matches
  • August 5-8: Round of 16 matches
  • August 12-13: Quarter-final matches
  • August 16-17: Semi-final matches
  • August 19: Third-place match
  • August 20: Final match

You can check out the full schedule and results for the 2023 Women’s World Cup on the official website.

What to Expect from the 2023 Women’s World Cup

The 2023 Women’s World Cup is expected to be the most exciting and competitive edition of the tournament ever, with many teams having a realistic chance of lifting the trophy. The level of women’s soccer has improved significantly in recent years, with more investment, exposure, and development across the world.

Some of the favorites to win the 2023 Women’s World Cup include:

  • United States: The four-time and reigning world champions are always a force to be reckoned with, boasting a squad full of talent, experience, and determination. Led by stars like Megan Rapinoe, Alex Morgan, and Carli Lloyd, the USWNT will be aiming to make history by winning three consecutive titles.
  • Netherlands: The defending European champions and runners-up in the 2019 Women’s World Cup are one of the most entertaining and attacking teams in the world, featuring players like Vivianne Miedema, Lieke Martens, and Shanice van de Sanden. The Oranje Leeuwinnen will be hoping to go one step further and claim their first global title.
  • France: The hosts of the 2019 Women’s World Cup and one of the best teams in Europe, France have a balanced and talented squad that can challenge any opponent. With players like Wendie Renard, Amandine Henry, and Eugenie Le Sommer, Les Bleues will be eager to end their trophy drought and win their first major title.
  • Germany: The two-time world champions and eight-time European champions are always a threat in any tournament, with a solid and disciplined team that can grind out results. Led by players like Dzsenifer Marozsan, Alexandra Popp, and Sara Dabritz, Die Nationalelf will be looking to reclaim their status as one of the top teams in the world.

Other teams that could cause some surprises or upsets include:

  • Australia: The co-hosts and one of the rising powers in women’s soccer, Australia have a dynamic and exciting team that can score goals for fun. With players like Sam Kerr, Caitlin Foord, and Ellie Carpenter, the Matildas will be hoping to use their home advantage and make a deep run in the tournament.
  • England: The third-place finishers in the 2015 Women’s World Cup and semi-finalists in the 2019 Women’s World Cup, England have a strong and experienced team that can compete with anyone. With players like Lucy Bronze, Ellen White, and Fran Kirby, the Lionesses will be aiming to reach their first final and win their first title.
  • Brazil: The perennial contenders in women’s soccer, Brazil have a legendary team that features some of the best players of all time. With players like Marta, Formiga, and Debinha, A Seleção Feminina will be hoping to finally win their first World Cup after finishing second in 2007 and third in 1999.
  • Japan: The winners of the 2011 Women’s World Cup and runners-up in 2015, Japan have a young and talented team that plays with flair and finesse. With players like Mana Iwabuchi, Saki Kumagai, and Yui Hasegawa, Nadeshiko Japan will be looking to bounce back from their disappointing exit in the round of 16 in 2019.

The 2023 Women’s World Cup is set to be a thrilling spectacle of women’s soccer that you don’t want to miss. Whether you’re a casual fan or a die-hard supporter, you’ll find plenty of action, drama, and emotion in this tournament. So get ready to cheer on your favorite team or discover new ones as you watch the best female players in the world battle it out for glory.

What You Need to Know About Biden and Meloni’s Talks on China

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What You Need to Know About Biden and Meloni’s Talks on China
What You Need to Know About Biden and Meloni’s Talks on China (Image: Reuters)

US President Joe Biden and Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni met at the White House on Thursday to discuss China, Ukraine, and migration. The two leaders agreed on the need to counter China’s unfair trade practices and human rights violations, as well as to cooperate on climate change and global health. They also reaffirmed their commitment to the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment, a G7 initiative that seeks to provide an alternative to the BRI.

The meeting took place on Thursday, July 27, 2023, at the White House in Washington, D.C. The other participants in the meeting included Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Italian Foreign Minister Luigi Di Maio. The topics that were discussed included China’s growing influence, the ongoing war in Ukraine, and the migration crisis in Africa. The two leaders agreed to work together to counter China’s unfair trade practices and human rights violations, to support Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and to address the root causes of migration.

China’s influence and Italy’s role in the G7

One of the main topics on the agenda was China’s growing influence and Italy’s role in the Group of 7 (G7) nations, which Italy will chair in 2024. Italy is the only G7 member that has joined China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), a massive infrastructure project that aims to connect Asia, Europe and Africa. The U.S. has been critical of the BRI, saying it poses a threat to global security and democracy.

Biden and Meloni agreed on the need to counter China’s unfair trade practices and human rights violations, as well as to cooperate on climate change and global health. They also reaffirmed their commitment to the Partnership for Global Infrastructure and Investment, a G7 initiative that seeks to provide an alternative to the BRI.

Meloni said she was open to having good relations with China without being part of the BRI, and hinted that Italy might not renew its agreement with Beijing when it expires in March 2024. She said Italy would use its G7 presidency to promote a common approach to China among its allies.

Ukraine’s war and NATO’s security

Another key issue that Biden and Meloni discussed was the ongoing war in Ukraine, where Russia-backed separatists have been fighting the government since 2022. The U.S. and its European partners have provided billions of dollars in military and humanitarian aid to Ukraine, as well as diplomatic support for a peaceful resolution of the conflict.

Biden and Meloni expressed their solidarity with Ukraine and condemned Russia’s aggression and violations of international law. They also called for the full implementation of the Minsk agreements, a set of peace accords signed by Ukraine, Russia, France and Germany in 2015.

The two leaders also reaffirmed their strong alliance within NATO, the transatlantic military organization that has been facing challenges from Russia, China and other threats. They pledged to increase their defense spending and capabilities, as well as to enhance their cooperation on cybersecurity, counterterrorism and nuclear deterrence.

Migration crisis and Africa’s development

The third major topic that Biden and Meloni addressed was the migration crisis that has been affecting Italy and other European countries, especially in the Mediterranean region. Italy has been receiving thousands of migrants and refugees who arrive by boat from North Africa, fleeing war, poverty and persecution.

Biden and Meloni agreed on the need to address the root causes of migration, such as instability, violence and underdevelopment in Africa. They also stressed the importance of respecting human rights and international law in managing migration flows, as well as sharing responsibility among countries.

Meloni said Italy would host an international conference on migration in Rome later this year, where she hoped to involve the U.S. and other partners in finding solutions to the crisis. She also said that Africa’s development would be one of the main priorities of Italy’s G7 presidency.

A cordial but cautious relationship

The meeting between Biden and Meloni was cordial but cautious, as the two leaders have different political views and backgrounds. Biden is a liberal Democrat who has championed progressive causes such as abortion rights, LGBTQ rights and social justice. Meloni is a conservative populist who leads a right-wing coalition that opposes immigration, abortion and gay marriage.

Biden used last year’s Italian election results as an occasion to warn fellow liberals about the dangers facing the world’s democracies from rising populism and authoritarianism. Meloni is also expected to meet with Republican House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, who has said he could consider an impeachment inquiry into Biden.

A White House spokesperson said that Biden “has a good relationship” with Meloni and that they share common values and interests as allies. Both sides emphasized that the trip was an opportunity to reaffirm a strong partnership between the U.S. and Italy on global issues.

North Korea tests cruise missiles amid tensions with US and South Korea

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North Korea tests cruise missiles amid tensions with US and South Korea
North Korea tests cruise missiles amid tensions with US and South Korea (Image: KCNA via AFP)

North Korea has fired several cruise missiles into the Yellow Sea, South Korea’s military said on Saturday. The launches were detected around 4 a.m. local time, and the U.S. and South Korean intelligence authorities were analyzing them.

This is the second missile test by North Korea this week, after it fired two short-range ballistic missiles into the sea off its east coast on Wednesday. The ballistic missiles flew about 550 kilometers (341 miles) before landing in the water.

US and South Korea enhance defense cooperation

The missile tests come as the U.S. and South Korea are conducting joint military exercises and strengthening their defense cooperation in the face of North Korea’s nuclear and missile threats.

The allies have also agreed to increase the regional deployment of U.S. strategic assets, such as nuclear-armed submarines, bombers and aircraft carriers. On Tuesday, the USS Kentucky, a nuclear-powered submarine, made a port call in Busan, South Korea, for the first time in decades.

North Korea warns of nuclear war

North Korea has condemned the U.S. and South Korean moves as hostile and provocative, and warned that they could trigger a nuclear war.

North Korea’s defense minister issued a veiled threat on Thursday, suggesting that the docking of the USS Kentucky in South Korea could be grounds for a nuclear attack by the North.

South Korea’s Defense Ministry responded on Friday, saying that any nuclear attack by the North would face an “immediate, overwhelming and decisive response” that would bring an end to the North Korean regime.

Fate of US soldier unknown

The missile tests also come as North Korea remains silent about the fate of a U.S. soldier who crossed into the North from the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) on Tuesday.

The soldier, identified as Private Second Class Travis King, was due to return to the U.S. to face military discipline after serving jail time in South Korea for assault.

The U.S. has said it is “very concerned” about how King would be treated in North Korea, and that it has not received any response from Pyongyang about his whereabouts or condition.

How Microsoft Bing AI is Reinventing Search and Browsing

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How Microsoft Bing AI is Reinventing Search and Browsing
How Microsoft Bing AI is Reinventing Search and Browsing

Search engines and browsers are the most widely used tools on the web, but they are not perfect. They often fail to provide complete answers, interactive chat, or creative content for complex or creative queries. That’s why Microsoft has launched a new AI-powered Bing search engine and Edge browser, which aim to deliver better search, more complete answers, a new chat experience, and the ability to generate content. These tools are designed to be your copilot for the web, helping you get more from search and the web.

Better Search

The new Bing gives you an improved version of the familiar search experience, providing more relevant results for simple things like sports scores, stock prices, and weather, along with a new sidebar that shows more comprehensive answers if you want them. For example, if you search for “Microsoft stock price”, you will see the current price, historical data, news, and analysis in the sidebar, along with a link to buy or sell shares.

Complete Answers

Bing reviews results from across the web to find and summarize the answer you’re looking for. For example, you can get detailed instructions for how to substitute eggs for another ingredient in a cake you are baking right at that moment, without scrolling through multiple results. You can also see a table that compares different egg substitutes and their effects on the cake.

A New Chat Experience

For more complex searches – such as for planning a detailed trip itinerary or researching what TV to buy – the new Bing offers new, interactive chat. The chat experience empowers you to refine your search until you get the complete answer you are looking for by asking for more details, clarity, and ideas – with links available so you can immediately act on your decisions. For example, if you search for “best TV 2023”, you can chat with Bing AI, a friendly and helpful chatbot that will ask you about your preferences, budget, and needs, and suggest the best TV models for you, along with reviews, ratings, and prices.

A Creative Spark

There are times when you need more than an answer – you need inspiration. The new Bing can generate content to help you. It can help you write an email, create a 5-day itinerary for a dream vacation to Hawaii, with links to book your travel and accommodations, prep for a job interview, or create a quiz for trivia night. The new Bing also cites all its sources, so you’re able to see links to the web content it references.

New Microsoft Edge Experience

The new Bing and Edge are integrated seamlessly, so you can access all these features from anywhere on the web. You can also customize your Edge browser with themes, extensions, and widgets that suit your style and needs. The new Edge also offers enhanced privacy and security features, such as tracking prevention, password monitoring, and InPrivate browsing.

The new Bing and Edge are available in preview now at Bing.com. You can also download the new Edge browser from Microsoft.com/edge. Try them out today and see how they can be your copilot for the web.

Global Hackers Target US Agencies Using Software Flaw

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Global Hackers Target US Agencies Using Software Flaw
Global Hackers Target US Agencies Using Software Flaw

A global hacking campaign has breached several US government agencies by exploiting a vulnerability in a widely used software, according to the US cyber-watchdog agency.

The US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) said on Thursday that it was working urgently to understand the impacts and ensure timely remediation of the intrusions.

The hackers took advantage of a weakness in the file transfer software MOVEit, made by Progress Software Corp, which is typically used by organizations to transfer files between their partners or customers.

Eric Goldstein, CISA’s executive assistant director for cybersecurity, said in a statement that several federal agencies had experienced intrusions following the discovery of the software flaw.

“We are working urgently to understand impacts and ensure timely remediation,” he said.

CISA did not immediately return emails from Reuters seeking further comment. The FBI and US National Security Agency also did not immediately return emails seeking details on the breaches.

Jen Easterly, the director of CISA, told MSNBC that the US did not expect any “significant impact” from the cyber-attack and that the agency was coordinating with other agencies to ensure remediation.

“Right now, we’re focused quickly on those federal agencies that may be impacted and we’re working hand in hand with them to be able to mitigate that risk,” she said.

The online extortion group Cl0p, which has claimed credit for the MOVEit hack, has previously said it would not exploit any data taken from government agencies.

“IF YOU ARE A GOVERNMENT, CITY OR POLICE SERVICE DO NOT WORRY, WE ERASED ALL YOUR DATA,” the group said in a statement on its website.

Neither Cl0p nor Progress immediately responded to requests for comment from Reuters.

Earlier this month, US and British cybersecurity officials warned that a Russian cyber-extortion gang had hacked MOVEit and that would have a global impact as the file-transfer program was popular with businesses.

Zellis, a leading payroll services provider in the UK that serves British Airways, the BBC, and hundreds of others, was among the affected users. UK chemist chain Boots was also affected.

Last month, Microsoft accused Chinese state-sponsored hackers of carrying out attacks against critical infrastructure in the US using similar methods.