November brought heavy moments and big wins. From Cristiano Ronaldo’s match-winning brace to Ukraine marking 1,000 days of war, our coverage this month tracked hard news and headline-making sport across Africa and beyond. Here’s a quick guide to what we published and why it matters.
Football dominated the headlines. Cristiano Ronaldo fired two goals to lift Al-Nassr closer to the Saudi Pro League title — a reminder that even now he decides tight games. Malawi rounded off AFCON qualifying with a strong 3-0 win over Burkina Faso, giving fans cause for optimism ahead of next year’s tournament. In Serie A, Lazio’s gritty 2-1 win over Cagliari pushed them up the table and showed how disciplinary battles can shape results after two dismissals in that match.
On the international stage, Italy vs France in the UEFA Nations League grabbed attention: both teams had already secured quarter-final spots, but pride and top-place positioning were on the line. And for Premier League watchers, our Fulham vs Brentford preview broke down form, odds, and what to expect from the West London derby.
Not all stories were about sport. Ukraine marked 1,000 days since Russia’s full-scale invasion — we covered the human toll and the ongoing need for global support as the conflict grinds on. In the U.S. political sphere, House Speaker Mike Johnson came under scrutiny after delaying the Ethics Committee report on Matt Gaetz, a move that stirred debate about transparency and congressional norms.
Back home and closer to law-and-order beats, South Africa was rocked by the assassination of alleged underworld figure Mark Lifman outside a mall. That incident raised questions about gang violence and how communities and police respond to organised crime.
We also reported on a high-profile disciplinary case in English football: Rodrigo Bentancur received a seven-game ban and a £100,000 fine after a racial remark about team-mate Heung-Min Son. The case highlighted how off-field comments can have major on-field consequences and wider social implications.
Finally, former Nigeria international Garba Lawal urged patience with the Super Eagles as they build toward future goals — a reminder that rebuilding takes time and supporters play a role in steady progress.
Want to read the full stories? Click any headline on this archive page to jump to the full article. If you’re tracking sport, politics, or safety issues across Africa and beyond, this month’s posts give a clear snapshot of where things stand and what to watch next.
Cristiano Ronaldo's two goals clinched a crucial 2-0 victory for Al-Nassr over Damac, propelling them into the title chase. Although Al-Nassr's performance wasn't flawless, they swim closer to league leaders, underscoring Ronaldo's pivotal role. Despite facing challenges, Ronaldo's strikes, including a powerful left-footed finish, affirm his unyielding prowess.
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Ukraine somberly marks 1000 days since Russia's full-scale invasion, highlighting the tragic human toll and geopolitical shifts it has triggered. With staggering civilian casualties and massive population displacement, the conflict underscores the urgent need for diplomatic solutions. As the world contemplates ways to restore peace, Ukraine steadfastly resists, seeking continued global backing to secure its future.
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Rodrigo Bentancur, Tottenham's midfielder, receives a seven-match ban and a £100,000 fine by the Football Association for a racial remark about teammate Heung-Min Son. The incident occurred during a TV interview in June. Despite apologizing and acknowledging his mistake, Bentancur's comment was deemed an aggravated breach. While Son remains forgiving, Bentancur will miss crucial matches, including against City and Chelsea.
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In a thrilling display of football prowess, Malawi secured a resounding 3-0 victory against Burkina Faso in their final match of the AFCON 2025 qualifiers. This noteworthy win, held at Bingu National Stadium, showcased Malawi's potential as they ended their campaign on a high note. Key contributions from Gabadinho Mhango and Lloyd Aaron were instrumental in achieving this success.
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House Speaker Mike Johnson has faced scrutiny for postponing the release of the House Ethics Committee's report on Matt Gaetz, a move linked to Gaetz's congressional resignation. Gaetz, nominated by Trump for Attorney General, faces allegations of serious misconduct, which he denies. Johnson argues tradition dictates no investigations on former members, despite GOP calls for disclosure amid looming confirmation debates.
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Italy is set to host France for a critical encounter in the UEFA Nations League 2024-25, in what promises to be a thrilling contest at the San Siro. Both teams have already qualified for the quarter-finals, but this match will determine who tops League A Group 2. Despite notable injuries on both sides, the stage is set for a fierce competition as France seeks redemption for their previous defeat to Italy.
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In the face of crucial AFCON qualifying matches, former Nigeria International Garba Lawal calls for fans' patience and support for the Super Eagles. He stresses the value of a stable and strategic approach to team development. Lawal urges supporters to trust the team's journey and believe in its potential, even when immediate outcomes are not positive, advocating for a unified front as the team strives for success.
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In an electrifying clash, Lazio claimed a 2-1 victory over Cagliari, marking their third consecutive win in Serie A. The intense match was marked by the dismissals of Yerri Mina and Michael Adopo from the Cagliari side, highlighting the fierce competitive spirit on the field. This hard-earned win boosted Lazio to the fifth spot in the Serie A standings.
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Fulham and Brentford will face off in a highly anticipated West London Derby on November 4, as part of the 2024 Premier League. This match offers both teams a chance to enter the top 10 standings with a win. Fulham, favored at +100 odds, has a strong home record, while Brentford comes in as the underdog at +260 with impressive recent form. Expert insights break down strategies and potential outcomes.
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Mark Lifman, a controversial figure in South Africa's criminal underworld, has been gunned down outside the Garden Route Mall in George. His assassination occurred amid an ongoing trial where Lifman was facing serious charges alongside other infamous crime figures. This event raises concerns about escalating gang violence and criminal activities in the region as authorities continue to battle organized crime.
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