Monthly Archives: April 2025

NEWS, SPORT

Champions League : The Gunners lose at home to PSG

PSG triumphed in the Gunners’ home stadium, the Emirates Stadium, in the first leg of the Champions League semi-final. A heroic performance that had Parisian fans dreaming.

The awakening of a wounded giant

This Wednesday evening, under the vibrant floodlights of the Emirates Stadium, Paris Saint-Germain returned to where it all began. On October 1, 2024, Arsenal, the reigning champions, inflicted a cruel 2-0 defeat on a still-fragile Parisian side. But this time, it was an unrecognizable PSG that entered the fray: a united team, led by Luis Enrique and driven by the brilliance of players like Ousmane Dembélé, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and Désiré Doué. Determined, the Parisian players seemed ready to write a new chapter in their history.

Photoss : Arsenal/PSG/DR

Ousmane Dembélé’s lightning strike in the London night

From the opening minutes, PSG set the pace. Aggressive pressing, ball control, and, above all, a killer instinct. Ousmane Dembélé found the net in the fourth minute, thanks to a perfect combination with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. His low cross-shot off the post opened the scoring and set the tone (0-1). Paris, galvanized, created a series of chances. Marquinhos saw his header grazed the target, while Gunners goalkeeper David Raya saved his team from attempts by Desiré Doué and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. Later, match referee Slavko Vincic chose not to award the Parisian club a penalty. The controversial play occurred in the sixteenth minute, when the Georgian playmaker, on a run into the Gunners penalty area, was held by the arm by Jurrien Timber. A decision that continues to spark debate.

Photoss : Arsenal/PSG/DR

PSG under pressure but unyielding

The English response was swift. Arsenal, led by an imperious Declan Rice in midfield, began to break through the Parisian defensive lines. Gianluigi Donnarumma, PSG’s last line of defense, made decisive saves, notably from Martin Merino and Gabriel Martinelli. The second half intensified further: Declan Rice launched Leandro Trossard into a frantic run, but the Parisian goalkeeper responded. The tension mounted as the minutes ticked by, transforming the match into a veritable battle of nerves.

Heroes off the bench

Luis Enrique relied on his substitutes to maintain the balance. Gonçalo Ramos, barely on the bench, provided Bradley Barcola with a brilliant shot. His own audacious shot hit the crossbar, narrowly missing the break (85th minute). Arsenal threw their last forces into the battle, but Paris held firm. The Parisian players, united as ever, preserved their precious advantage until the final whistle.

Photoss : Arsenal/PSG/DR

Heading for the Parc des Princes

With this away victory, PSG is looking forward to the final. But the road ahead is still fraught with obstacles. In a week, at the Parc des Princes, they will have to seal the victory against the Gunners, who have not yet had their final word. The Parisian fans are already ready to make their voices heard.

Photoss : Arsenal/PSG/DR

NEWS, SPORT

London Marathon TCS 2025: Historic!!

The 2025 London Marathon pushed boundaries with unprecedented records: the highest number of finishers ever, outstanding performances, and a marathon legend celebrated.

Photos : TCS London Marathon/Londoncity/Getty Images/DR

The biggest marathon ever

The 2025 London Marathon officially made history. With 56,640 finishers, it surpassed the New York Marathon’s 2024 record (55,646 finishers). By 6:30 PM on race day, this impressive figure had already been reached. “The TCS London Marathon is the greatest marathon in the world, and now it’s officially the largest marathon in the world,” said Hugh Bras, managing director of London Marathon Events, yesterday. “It’s hard to put today’s emotions into words.” But that’s not all: no fewer than 41 Guinness World Records were set throughout the day, including in quirky and spectacular categories.

Record day : A new peak for women

One of the most remarkable moments of this edition was the new women’s world record set by Ethiopian runner Tigist Assefa. She crossed the finish line in 2 hours, 15 minutes, and 50 seconds, breaking the previous record of 2 hours, 16 minutes, and 2 seconds, securing her place among the greatest marathon runners in history. “We knew it was fast halfway through, but I felt strong to push to the end,” Tigist Assefa explained. This legendary time is also the 10th fastest women’s marathon ever, and Assefa now holds three of the ten best performances worldwide.

Photos : TCS London Marathon/Londoncity/Getty Images/DR

Sabastian Sawe triumphs and sets the stage for a promising future

Among men, Kenyan Sabastian Sawe delivered an exceptional performance, winning with a time of 2 hours, 2 minutes, and 27 seconds, the second-fastest time ever recorded in London. This was only his second marathon, following his sensational debut in Valencia in 2024 (2 hours, 2 minutes, and 5 seconds). “There were high expectations, but I knew I could do it,” he shared after executing a tactical race and launching a decisive attack at the 20th mile. Behind the Kenyan winner, Ugandan Jacob Kiplimo (2 hours, 3 minutes, and 37 seconds) impressed on his debut, signaling a bright future for marathon running. Alexander Mutiso secured third place after a photo finish with Dutch runner Abdi Nageeye.

Photos : TCS London Marathon/Londoncity/Getty Images/DR

A marathon that energizes the crowds

In addition to extraordinary performances, the streets of London were packed with thousands of spectators cheering on the runners. This popular enthusiasm pushed amateur and professional athletes beyond their limits, turning the race into a true celebration of running.

London makes history : Epic journey continues

With its unmatched records, unprecedented collective spirit, and celebrated heroes, the TCS London Marathon 2025 will remain a milestone in marathon history. All eyes now turn to Berlin and Chicago, where new battles are expected on the international stage. One thing is certain: the marathon world continues to thrive on its achievements.

Photos : TCS London Marathon/Londoncity/Getty Images/DR

NEWS, SPORT

Arsenal stumbles against Crystal Palace, delaying Liverpool’s title party

Arsenal’s grip on momentum loosened as they were held to a frustrating 2-2 draw by Crystal Palace, postponing Liverpool’s Premier League coronation and casting doubt ahead of the Gunners’ crucial clash against Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League.  

Photos : Arsenal/Crystal Palace/DR

A fast start, but defensive woes resurface

The night began on a promising note for Arsenal, as Jakub Kiwior powered home a well-placed header from a pinpoint Martin Ødegaard free-kick just three minutes into the game. However, their defensive frailties soon crept in, allowing Crystal Palace to grow into the match. The warning signs materialized when Eberechi Eze equalized in the 27th minute with a superb strike following a cleverly worked short corner. Before halftime, Arsenal briefly reclaimed control as Leandro Trossard finished off a well-crafted chance to restore their lead. Yet, Palace refused to back down, and as the second half unfolded, their intent became increasingly clear.  

Photos : Arsenal/Crystal Palace/DR

Jean Philippe Mateta delivers a late blow to Arsenal’s confidence  

Despite Arsenal’s attempts to shut the game down, Crystal Palace found their way back through sheer persistence. With the clock ticking down, Jean-Philippe Mateta unleashed a long-range effort, taking full advantage of a defensive lapse involving William Saliba and Ødegaard. The mistake proved costly, as it handed Palace a well-earned equalizer in the dying moments.  

Photos : Arsenal/Crystal Palace/DR

Arsenal under pressure ahead of PSG showdown

The result leaves Arsenal regretting two lost points, maintaining a six-point cushion over Manchester City but keeping them under pressure in the race for second place. Meanwhile, Liverpool must wait a little longer to officially secure their title, with their next challenge coming against Tottenham, a match that could finally seal their triumph. For Arsenal, though, the priority shifts to a different battle: a high-stakes Champions League showdown with PSG that will demand nothing less than their best.  

Photos : Arsenal/Crystal Palace/DR

NEWS, SPORT

Arsenal conquers Madrid and marches into the Champions League Semifinals!  

The dream of a miraculous comeback vanished in the electrified atmosphere of the Santiago-Bernabéu. Arsenal, unshaken by the spanish giant’s legendary resilience, showcased remarkable composure to secure their place in the Champions League semifinals. 

Despite an attacking trio of Kylian Mbappé, Vinicius Jr, and Rodrygo, Real Madrid never truly threatened to overturn the damaging 3-0 deficit from the first leg. Instead, the London side dictated the tempo, soaked up pressure, and clinically finished the job with goals from Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli.  

Photos : Real Madrid/Arsenal/Uefa/DR

Real Madrid’s nerves get the best of them  

From the opening whistle, Real Madrid appeared fueled by raw emotion rather than strategic precision. The home fans erupted as Kylian Mbappé found the net just two minutes into the game, but celebrations were swiftly silenced, VAR ruled the French star offside. The early setback set the tone for a frustrating night, with misplaced passes, rushed decisions, and unconvincing defensive efforts exposing Madrid’s vulnerability.  

Arsenal, on the other hand, demonstrated controlled aggression. 

Bukayo Saka, sharp from the outset, tested Thibaut Courtois twice in quick succession (7th, 8th minute). When the gunners won a penalty in the 11th minute, it seemed like the final dagger. However, Courtois stood tall, denying Saka’s audacious Panenka attempt (13th minute). Briefly, the miss gave Madrid hope, but that optimism faded when another VAR intervention overturned a penalty initially awarded to Kylian Mbappé (23rd minute). With frustration mounting, Carlo Ancelotti’s men struggled to generate real danger before halftime.  

Photos : Real Madrid/Arsenal/Uefa/DR

Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli seal Arsenal’s triumph

Arsenal’s control translated into a decisive breakthrough in the second half. A dazzling team move saw Bukayo Saka clinically finish at the 64th minute, delivering a near-fatal blow to Madrid’s ambitions. Although Vinicius Jr capitalized on a defensive lapse from William Saliba to equalize (68th minute), it was too little, too late—the Spanish side simply lacked the firepower to complete the comeback. As desperation took hold, Madrid threw everything forward. Yet their attempts fell short, Thibaut Courtois made a fine late stop, Endrick missed his chance, and ultimately, Gabriel Martinelli delivered the final punch, finishing off a swift counterattack (90+3rd minute) to secure Arsenal’s victory.  

Photos : Real Madrid/Arsenal/Uefa/DR

A High-Stakes battle awaits against PSG 

As the final whistle blew, Arsenal’s players erupted in celebration. Their dream continues, but the road ahead is fierce. Awaiting them in the semifinals is Paris Saint-Germain, a matchup that promises fireworks and drama. One thing is certain, Arsenal has proven they have what it takes to compete with the elite.  

Photos : Real Madrid/Arsenal/Uefa/DR

LIFESTYLE, NEWS

Universal Announces XXL Theme Park in Bedford: A Game-Changer for European Entertainment

Universal has officially unveiled its plan to build a massive theme park in Bedford, about 80 km north of London, marking its first resort in Europe. Supported by the UK government, this high-profile project is set to open by 2031 and promises to reshape the entertainment landscape.

A Bold Investment with Major Economic Impact

With billions of pounds invested, Universal UK aims to create 28,000 jobs in construction, tourism, and artificial intelligence. Comcast, Universal’s parent company, is set to become one of the largest employers in the region.

Competing with Disneyland Paris

From the outset, Universal UK expects to attract 8.5 million visitors annually, positioning itself right behind Disneyland Paris (15 million yearly visitors) and pushing Europa-Park to third place. This new arrival is set to shake up Europe’s theme park rankings.

Photos : Universal/DR

Iconic Franchises and an Immersive Experience

While Universal has yet to confirm which franchises will be featured, rumors suggest major names such as Harry Potter, Jurassic World, Paddington and The Minions. The resort will also include a 500-room hotel and an extensive entertainment complex.

Strategic Location for Accessibility

The park is designed for easy access, benefiting from existing infrastructure, including highways, railway connections, and its proximity to Luton Airport essential for attracting international visitors.

Photos : Universal/DR

Universal’s Global Expansion

This project aligns with Universal’s aggressive growth strategy, including the upcoming Universal Epic Universe in Florida and other developments in Las Vegas and Texas. Long-term projections estimate up to £50 billion in economic benefits by 2055.

A High-Stakes Rivalry with Disney

Universal’s expansion signals a direct challenge to Disney’s dominance in the theme park industry. As Universal UK prepares to open its doors, European visitors can expect a groundbreaking immersive experience that will redefine entertainment in the region.

Photos : Universal/DR

NEWS, SPORT

Boat Race 2025: Oxford and Cambridge set for another epic battle on the Thames

On Sunday, April 13, the historic Boat Race returns to the waters of the Thames, where Oxford and Cambridge will go head-to-head once again. With the Light Blues dominating in recent years, Oxford arrives with a revamped crew and newfound ambition to dethrone their rivals. The upcoming clash promises a thrilling spectacle on London’s iconic river.

Photos : Boat Race/DR

A historic rivalry, as fierce as ever  

Stretching across 6.8 kilometers between Putney and Mortlake, the Championship Course will see the men’s and women’s Blue Boats pushing themselves to the limit for glory. Cambridge, the reigning powerhouse winning the last seven women’s editions and six of the last eight men’s races—enters as the favorite. Oxford, however, is determined to challenge the status quo with new training methods and a roster packed with Olympic pedigree. Adding to the tension, a selection dispute disrupted Cambridge’s preparation: three of their rower PGCE students, were ruled ineligible following an official challenge from Oxford. Whether this will impact Cambridge’s dominance remains to be seen when the boats hit the water.  

Race schedule and where to watch  

Fans can catch the women’s race at 13:20 BST and the mmen’s race at 14:20 BST, both broadcast live on BBC.  

Photos : Boat Race/DR

The crews ready for battle  

Oxford  Women’s crew

Led by Heidi Long, a Paris 2024 Olympic bronze medalist, Oxford boasts serious experience. Alongside her, Kyra Delray, a junior and U23 champion returning from double hip surgery, adds depth to the squad.  

Cambridge Women’s crew

The defending champions feature Samy Morton, an Olympic reserve in 2024, and Claire Collins,a two-time Olympian and world bronze medalist. Their boat also includes Gemma King, who will race her seventh Boat Race, and Carys Earl, who helped Cambridge clinch last year’s victory.  

Oxford Men’s crew

Oxford comes armed with Olympic firepower: Tom Mackintosh, Tokyo 2020 gold medalist for New Zealand; Nico Kohl, an Italian Olympian at Paris 2024; and Nick Rusher, who won bronze in the men’s eight last summer. With a family history rooted in Olympic rowing, Rusher leads an experienced, battle-ready lineup.  

Cambridge Men’s crew

While not as internationally decorated, Cambridge relies on expertise and cohesion. James Robson, at 30 years old, is the team’s veteran, while Noam Mouelle and Luca Ferraro bring past Boat Race triumphs. Douwe de Graaf, part of Team GB’s development squad for Los Angeles 2028, adds further talent.  

Photos : Boat Race/DR

A showdown that could go either way  

With high stakes, deep-rooted rivalries, and unpredictable tensions, everything is on the line this Sunday afternoon. Will Oxford disrupt Cambridge’s reign, or will the Light Blues extend their dominance? One thing is certain: the 2025 Boat Race will be an unmissable event, where every stroke, every surge, and every wave could tip the balance in this legendary competition.

Photos : Boat Race/DR

NEWS, SPORT

Football Arsenal dominates but lacks sharpness

Arsenal controlled possession and dictated the tempo early on, with Declan Rice actively involved in the build-up play. However, Brentford’s well-structured defense kept them at bay, preventing any real breakthroughs in the first half. Despite their control, Arsenal struggled to convert their chances, leaving the door open for Brentford to pose a threat. The visitors defended resolutely, frustrating the Gunners as the first half ended goalless.  

Photos : Arsenal/FC Brentford/DR

Thomas Partey breaks the deadlock, but Yoane Wissa strikes back

Arsenal’s persistence paid off on the hour mark when Thomas Partey capitalized on a well-placed pass from Declan Rice to fire a precise shot past Mark Flekken (1-0, 60′). The Emirates roared, sensing a crucial victory.   However, Brentford refused to back down. Just minutes later, Yoane Wissa found space inside the box and clinically finished to bring the visitors level (1-1, 69′), netting his 15th goal of the season.  

Photos : Arsenal/FC Brentford/DR

Arsenal loses momentum, Liverpool pulls away

Despite Arsenal’s late push for a winner, Brentford’s defense held firm, securing a hard-fought point at the Emirates. The Gunners now sit ten points adrift of Liverpool, their chances of mounting a title challenge slipping away.  Mikel Arteta’s side will need to find consistency quickly if they want to keep pressure on the leaders, while Brentford walks away with a well-earned result that further solidifies their resilience in the league. A frustrating evening for Arsenal, but Brentford showed their tenacity once again.

Photos : Arsenal/FC Brentford/DR

NEWS, SPORT

Arsenal humiliates Real Madrid : Declan Rice dominates the midfield

The Gunners deliver a masterclass against the reigning champions and take a commanding lead toward the semi-finals.

Photos : Arsenal/Real Madrid/DR

A struggling Real Madrid from the first minute

Reigning Champions League winners Real Madrid entered this quarter-final clash at the Emirates Stadium with the weight of expectations. After eliminating Manchester City and Atlético Madrid, Carlo Ancelotti’s men were once again favorites,despite their recent inconsistencies. Missing Aurélien Tchouaméni, who was suspended, the Merengues welcomed back their world-class goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois after a period of uncertainty regarding his availability. Meanwhile, Mikel Arteta had to adjust his lineup, replacing the injured Gabriel Magalhães with  Jakub Kiwior alongside William Saliba in central defense.   Unfortunately for Jalub Kiwior,  his performance started off shaky. Just 40 seconds into the game, Kylian Mbappé nearly punished Arsenal after a defensive error, only for his shot to be saved by David Raya. The Polish defender struggled again at the 24th minute, allowing  Kylian Mbappé another opportunity, though it was ruled offside. Later, at 31 minutes, Jude Bellingham played an excellent through ball, but Kylian Mbappé failed to curl his shot properly, making it an easy save for David Raya.  Despite these moments of danger, Real Madrid lacked cohesion and failed to impose their usual rhythm. Their struggle to build up meaningful attacks became clear as Arsenal tightened their grip on the match.  

Arsenal Controls the game but struggles to score  

Photos : Arsenal/Real Madrid/DR

For much of the first half, Arsenal dominated possession and dictated play. However, converting chances proved challenging. Both Gabriel Martinelli, Mikel Merino, and Declan Rice attempted shots (14’, 38’, and 40’ minutes), but none found the back of the net. The closest they came was just before halftime when Declan Rice and Gabiel Martinelli tested Thibaut Courtois with a double attempt (45’ minute), forcing two spectacular saves from the Belgian goalkeeper. Despite a frustrating 0-0 score at the break, the home side looked poised to take control.  

Declan Rice’s masterclass changes the game  

Coming back from halftime, Arsenal increased their intensity. More aggressive in midfield and sharper in attack, the Gunners finally broke the deadlock. At 58 minutes, Declan Rice stunned the stadium with a world-class free kick, sending the ball into Thibaut Courtois’top corner (1-0). Madrid looked rattled, struggling to mount any response. Twelve minutes later, Declan Rice struck again. At 70 minutes, slightly further left from his first free-kick attempt, he unleashed another unstoppable shot, leaving Thibaut Courtois helpless (2-0). The goalkeeper had been Madrid’s saving grace throughout the match, notably with key stops against Gabriel Martinelli and Mikel Merino, aided by David Alaba’s clearance on the goal line (67’ minute). Real Madrid desperately tried to regain footing, but aside from Jude Bellingham’ defensive intervention (73’ minute), they remained ineffective. Their night went from bad to worse when Ethan Nwaneri sprinted down the wing at 75 minutes, crossing perfectly for Mikel Merino, who fired home the decisive third goal (3-0).  

Arsenal’s Statement Win, Real Madrid’s Collapse 

Photos : Arsenal/Real Madrid/DR

This dominant performance in solidifies Arsenal as genuine title contenders while putting Real Madrid in a precarious position ahead of the second leg at Santiago Bernabéu. The Merengues will also have to deal with the absence of Eduardo Camavinga who was sent off in stoppage time. Madrid must find answers before their home rematch, where only a miraculous comebackcan salvage their European hopes. Meanwhile, Arsenal’s emphatic victorycements their growing influence in Europe.  

Photos : Arsenal/Real Madrid/DR

MUSIQUE, NEWS

Kurt Cobain’s Iconic Guitar to Be Exhibited in London This Summer  

Nirvana fans and rock enthusiasts have something to look forward to this summer: the Royal College of Music Museum in London will host a special exhibition dedicated to Kurt Cobain.  

Titled Kurt Cobain Unplugged,bthe exhibition will feature the legendary Martin D-18E acoustic guitar, played by Cobain during Nirvana’s iconic MTV Unplugged performance in November 1993, just months before his tragic passing. The live album, released in 1994, earned the band its only Grammy Award and remains one of the most celebrated performances in rock history.  

Photos : Getty Images/MTV/DR

Historic Guitar on Display for the First Time in the UK  

Cobain’s Martin D-18E, the most expensive guitar ever sold at auction fetched over $6 million (around €5.5 million) in 2020. The instrument will now be showcased in the UK for the first time as part of this landmark exhibition.   Australian entrepreneur Peter Freedman AM, who acquired the guitar, envisioned a worldwide exhibition to honor artists and musicians. She explained. “I’m thrilled that its first stop is the Royal College of Music in London, marking a historic moment for music lovers.”

A Tribute to Nirvana’s MTV Unplugged Legacy  

Curated by rock journalist Alan di Pernaand Gabriele Rossi Rognoni, this exhibition delves into the lasting impact of Nirvana’s MTV Unpluggednconcert. Di Perna describes the event as a “game-changing performance by a band that defined rock in the 1990s.” 30 years after its release, MTV Unplugged is ranked among the greatest live albums ever recorded, alongside masterpieces like Ellington at Newport, Aretha Live at Fillmore West, and Stop Making Sense by Talking Heads.  

Photos :  Getty Images/MTV/DR

Iconic memorabilia on display  

The exhibition also reunites another legendary piece: Cobain’s olive-green mohair cardigan, worn during the performance, which sold at auction for $334,000 (€308,000) in 2019. Fans will also get to see rare Nirvana memorabilia, including original concert posters, collectible vinyl records, and items from Cobain’s personal music gear collection, offering a deeper glimpse into the band’s legacy.

Photos :  Getty Images/MTV/DR

LIFESTYLE, NEWS

ETA : A new travel requirement for the United Kingdom

A mandatory electronic authorization for French and European travelers.

Since April 2, 2025, travelers heading to the United Kingdom must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) in addition to their passport. Modeled after the U.S. ESTA system, this digital document aims to strengthen border security while streamlining administrative procedures. Whether visiting England, Scotland, Wales, or Northern Ireland, this authorization is now essential for all short-term stays.

Who needs an ETA?

The ETA is required for all foreign nationals who previously enjoyed visa-free access for stays under six months. It applies to French citizens, EU nationals,and travelers from dozens of other countries worldwide. Even minfants and children must have an ETA, except for school trips.

However, certain exemptions exist

UK and Irish passport holder

Dual nationals with a UK passport

Transit passengers who remain in international zones without crossing UK border control

ETA Cost and Validity Until April 8,the application fee is £10 (€12).

Starting April 9, the cost increases to £16 (€19).

The authorization remains valid for two years, allowing multiple entries and exits during this period. If the passport expires within those two years, a new ETA application must be submitted with the updated passport details.

How to apply for an ETA?

Applications are exclusively processed through the official UK government website (gov.uk) or the UK ETA app, available on the App Store and Google Play. The process involves:

1. Filling out an online form.

2. Uploading a photo of the passport.

3. Taking a selfie for identity verification. 

4. Receiving a response, usually within three working days.

No physical documents are required, as the ETA is digitally linked to the applicant’s passport and checked upon arrival in the UK.

Where Is the ETA required?

The ETA is mandatory for travel to all four nations of the UK :

England

Scotland

Wales

Northern Ireland

It is also required for airline stopovers, except for those staying within international transit zones. Even travelers crossing into Northern Ireland from the Republic of Ireland need an ETA, despite the absence of border controls.

What about the channel Islands ? 

Although Jersey and Guernsey are Crown Dependencies rather than part of the UK, their governments plan to introduce ETA requirements by the end of 2025.

Beware of fraud

As with any digital application process, fraudulent websites may try to exploit travelers by offering overpriced, unofficial services. Search results often include sponsored ads leading to fake platforms charging higher fees. To avoid scams, applicants should only use the official UK government portal. With this new regulation, the UK is reshaping its border entry system. Even for brief business trips or weekend visits, travelers must now plan ahead to meet this requirement and avoid any issues at passport control. Though the ETA adds an extra step, it reflects a broader effort to modernize and secure international travel.

Photos : London/Govuk/Kbsp/DR