Author: newsnote correspondent

In a stunning display of grit and determination, Inter Miami secured a historic 2-1 victory over Portuguese giants Porto at the Club World Cup, with a remarkable performance from veteran playmaker Lionel Messi. The 37-year-old superstar curled in a superb free-kick to cement his status as man of the match during the clash held at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano, who shares an Argentine heritage with Messi, expressed his admiration for the footballing icon’s relentless desire to win, which he considers even more impressive than Messi’s renowned talent. “Beyond his goal, he’s a player who shows…

The long-awaited murder trial of football star Senzo Meyiwa is set for a critical examination of dental records, as the case continues to unfold in the Pretoria High Court on Friday. The spotlight now turns to accused Mthobisi Mncube, who recently underwent a dental examination aimed at determining whether he has a gold tooth, a crucial detail tied to witness testimonies from the night of the murder. The state has presented compelling evidence suggesting that Mncube was present at the scene of the crime—a house in Vosloorus—prior to Meyiwa’s fatal shooting in October 2014. Testimonies and images retrieved from a…

In a startling revelation that could have severe implications for the administration of public service pensions, the Public Service and Commercial Union of South Africa (PSCU) has flagged allegations of gross financial mismanagement at the Government Pensions Administration Agency (GPAA). The union’s concerns stem from the Internal Audit Report for the 2024/25 financial year, which outlines potential misconduct and governance failures that could jeopardise the financial security of approximately 1.7 million government employees and pensioners reliant on the funds managed by the GPAA. In a formal letter addressed to GPAA CEO Kedibone Madiehe over the weekend, the PSCU sought urgent…

The tragic impact of last week’s flooding in the Eastern Cape has deepened, with the death toll now standing at 92 following the recovery of two additional bodies on Wednesday night, including that of a teenage girl found along the Mthatha River. Premier Oscar Mabuyane confirmed the grim update, noting that Mthatha has emerged as the hardest-hit area, accounting for 68 of the recorded fatalities. “Progress has been made with the processing of the bodies, as 86 bodies have now been positively identified, with 83 collected by family members,” said Mabuyane in an official statement. In light of the escalating…

The situation between Israel and Iran has reached a critical boiling point, escalating into open hostilities marked by missile strikes and incendiary political rhetoric. Israel has reportedly targeted Iranian uranium enrichment sites in response to a renewed barrage of missile fire from Iran, prompting fears of a larger, regional conflict. In a stark escalation, U.S. President Donald Trump has discussed American military involvement, insisting that Iran must surrender unconditionally. However, Trump’s ambiguity regarding his potential military actions has left both allies and adversaries uncertain about America’s next steps. “I may do it. I may not do it. Nobody knows what…

The South African rand edged higher on Wednesday, buoyed by stable domestic inflation data and stronger-than-expected retail sales figures, as global investors looked ahead to the U.S. Federal Reserve’s interest rate decision later in the day. By 1511 GMT, the rand was trading at 17.96 against the dollar, marking an increase of approximately 0.4% from Tuesday’s close. The currency’s previous day had seen a decline of more than 1% due to escalating tensions between Israel and Iran, which prompted many investors to retreat to safer assets. This flight to safety dampened the rand’s appeal, and the local unit remained under…

In a significant move that underscores the growing scrutiny of political figures with controversial stances, the United Kingdom’s Home Office has refused a visa application from Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema. The authorities cited his outspoken support for Hamas, classified as a terrorist organisation in the UK, and inflammatory rhetoric surrounding racial issues as reasons for the decision. Malema, who has previously held visas allowing him to travel to the UK, has faced heightened examination following a series of incendiary comments. In a letter outlining the refusal, the Home Office pointed to several statements made by Malema, including…

As the clock ticks down to a significant deadline, South Africa is gearing up to resume vital trade negotiations with the Trump administration during the upcoming USAfrica Business Summit in Luanda, Angola, from June 22-25. This meeting comes at a critical time, with reciprocal tariffs threatening to come into effect on July 9, marking a crucial juncture for South Africa’s economy. Following President Cyril Ramaphosa’s meeting with US President Donald Trump earlier this year, where South Africa’s negotiating team presented a proposed framework agreement, officials aim to finalise the details of a complex array of proposed trade initiatives. These initiatives…

Orlando, Fla. — In a gripping encounter at the Inter&Co stadium on Tuesday night, Mamelodi Sundowns emerged triumphant, defeating Ulsan HD 1-0 in their opening match of the Club World Cup group stage. The victory came after a frustrating hour-long weather delay, yet the South African side didn’t let that dampen their spirits. With fewer than 1,000 fans in attendance at the stadium, which holds 25,500, Mamelodi Sundowns displayed offensive aggression right from the start. However, it was Ulsan HD who threatened first. Erick Farias nearly put the South Korean club ahead with a one-time shot on a counterattack that…

In a high-stakes courtroom session on Tuesday, Judge Mareena Opperman of the Free State High Court issued an unequivocal warning to accused Thabo Bester and his legal representatives regarding potential delays in his trial. Bester, a convicted rapist and murderer, stands accused of escaping from Mangaung prison in 2022, a case that has gripped South Africa. The trial could face further delays due to a pending appeal related to Bester’s claim of inadequate access to legal counsel. The high court had ruled against Bester’s assertions; however, he is pursuing an appeal. Throughout the proceedings, Judge Opperman reminded those involved of…