Latest news with #Costa
IOL News
2 hours ago
- Sport
- IOL News
PSL Awards 2025: A night of glory for Costa but were the right winners crowned?
Lucas Ribeiro Costa of Mamelodi Sundowns was the big winner at the PSL awards. Photo: Backpagepix Image: Backpagepix Lucas Ribeiro Costa was the standout star at the 2024/25 PSL Awards, walking away with an impressive four accolades, including the prestigious PSL Footballer of the Season. The Mamelodi Sundowns forward's contribution, particularly during the first half of the campaign, was instrumental in securing the club's record-extending eighth consecutive league title. Costa's performances ensured that Sundowns kept fierce rivals Orlando Pirates at bay while asserting their dominance in the Betway Premiership. In addition to the top honour, he was also named Players' Player of the Season, Goal of the Season, and Premiership Top Goal Scorer after netting 16 goals in league action. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading While there was little debate over most of Costa's accolades, the Goal of the Season award raised some eyebrows. His composed finish against the Buccaneers — where defenders looked on rather than intervening — was undoubtedly elegant. However, Fawaaz Basadien's stunning long-range strike from inside his own half arguably deserved the nod. Goals of that nature are rare in the PSL and far more difficult to execute, which could have tipped the scale in his favour. The Coach of the Season award was another hotly contested category. On paper, Miguel Cardoso appeared the logical choice, having guided Sundowns to the title. Although he only took charge midway through the campaign — replacing Manqoba Mngqithi — the impact he made was undeniable. He inherited a finely tuned side and steered them through a gruelling campaign, effectively ending the Sea Robbers' title push in the final stretch. Standing in his way was Jose Riveiro, who had a strong case of his own. Despite falling 13 points short of the title, he kept the Buccaneers competitive across all fronts. His tactical acumen and consistency were evident throughout the campaign. Still, Cardoso's success in solidifying Sundowns' grip on the league and leading them to a commanding finish was enough to tilt the balance in his favour. Pirates and Sundowns shared the spotlight on the night. Sipho Chaine edged out Ronwen Williams and Magesi FC's Elvis Chipezeze to claim Goalkeeper of the Season. Williams might have mounted a stronger challenge had injury setbacks not disrupted his campaign. Another Pirates player, Nkosinathi Sibisi, rightfully took home Defender of the Season. His leadership and consistency stood out, especially as he partnered with a rotating cast of centre-backs throughout the campaign. His experience and adaptability were vital to the club's defensive stability and fully justified the recognition. However, the most debatable decision of the night came in the Midfielder of the Season category. Makhehlene Makhaula had an excellent campaign for the Buccaneers — especially in terms of breaking up play and winning possession. Yet Teboho Mokoena arguably had the edge. Mokoena not only posted superior statistical returns but also brought balance to Sundowns' midfield. His contributions at both ends of the pitch, including set-piece delivery and goal threat, made him a more complete presence. Makhaula's work ethic was undeniable, but his limited progressive play raises questions about how the final decision was reached.
IOL News
3 hours ago
- Sport
- IOL News
PSL Awards 2025: A night of glory for Costa – But were the right winners crowned?
Lucas Ribeiro Costa of Mamelodi Sundowns was the big winner at the PSL awards. Photo: Backpagepix Image: Backpagepix Lucas Ribeiro Costa was the standout star at the 2024/25 PSL Awards, walking away with an impressive four accolades, including the prestigious PSL Footballer of the Season. The Mamelodi Sundowns forward's contribution, particularly during the first half of the campaign, was instrumental in securing the club's record-extending eighth consecutive league title. Costa's performances ensured that Sundowns kept fierce rivals Orlando Pirates at bay while asserting their dominance in the Betway Premiership. In addition to the top honour, he was also named Players' Player of the Season, Goal of the Season, and Premiership Top Goal Scorer after netting 16 goals in league action. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Next Stay Close ✕ Ad loading While there was little debate over most of Costa's accolades, the Goal of the Season award raised some eyebrows. His composed finish against the Buccaneers — where defenders looked on rather than intervening — was undoubtedly elegant. However, Fawaaz Basadien's stunning long-range strike from inside his own half arguably deserved the nod. Goals of that nature are rare in the PSL and far more difficult to execute, which could have tipped the scale in his favour. The Coach of the Season award was another hotly contested category. On paper, Miguel Cardoso appeared the logical choice, having guided Sundowns to the title. Although he only took charge midway through the campaign — replacing Manqoba Mngqithi — the impact he made was undeniable. He inherited a finely tuned side and steered them through a gruelling campaign, effectively ending the Sea Robbers' title push in the final stretch. Standing in his way was Jose Riveiro, who had a strong case of his own. Despite falling 13 points short of the title, he kept the Buccaneers competitive across all fronts. His tactical acumen and consistency were evident throughout the campaign. Still, Cardoso's success in solidifying Sundowns' grip on the league and leading them to a commanding finish was enough to tilt the balance in his favour. Pirates and Sundowns shared the spotlight on the night. Sipho Chaine edged out Ronwen Williams and Magesi FC's Elvis Chipezeze to claim Goalkeeper of the Season. Williams might have mounted a stronger challenge had injury setbacks not disrupted his campaign. Another Pirates player, Nkosinathi Sibisi, rightfully took home Defender of the Season. His leadership and consistency stood out, especially as he partnered with a rotating cast of centre-backs throughout the campaign. His experience and adaptability were vital to the club's defensive stability and fully justified the recognition. However, the most debatable decision of the night came in the Midfielder of the Season category. Makhehlene Makhaula had an excellent campaign for the Buccaneers — especially in terms of breaking up play and winning possession. Yet Teboho Mokoena arguably had the edge. Mokoena not only posted superior statistical returns but also brought balance to Sundowns' midfield. His contributions at both ends of the pitch, including set-piece delivery and goal threat, made him a more complete presence. Makhaula's work ethic was undeniable, but his limited progressive play raises questions about how the final decision was reached.
Daily Mirror
a day ago
- Business
- Daily Mirror
Sainsbury's shoppers spot new Starbucks coffee in cult favourite flavour
Sainsbury's shoppers have been rushing to get their hands on a series of limited-edition Starbucks coffees after spotting them at the supermarket, and one flavour in particular has excited fans If there is one thing us Brits love, it's popping our kettle on to enjoy a hot drink. While a classic cup of tea or a coffee never goes amiss, now and then it is fun to treat yourself to fancier hot drinks. You could pop into your local coffee chain to pick up a fancy drink, but it's no secret that the cost can quickly rack up. Thankfully, the likes of Costa and Starbucks have now launched their own at-home sachets, meaning you can enjoy unique flavoured hot drinks from the comfort of your kitchen. You can get Starbucks Caramel Latte, Vanilla Latte and White Mocha instant coffee sachets, already, and now Starbucks have launched their cult classic favourite, Pumpkin Spiced Latte, in sachet form ahead of time in Sainsbury's around the UK. These drinks are typically enjoyed in the autumn time for a limited period. You can get a box of four sachets for £2.15 - all you then need to do is pop the sachet into a mug, add hot water and stir. The product is limited edition and is described as "creamy and spiced" on its packaging. A description on the Sainsbury's website reads: "Inspired by the iconic Starbucks Pumpkin Spice Latte, we have crafted this autumnal favourite for you to prepare at home using the same high-quality 100% Arabica beans as our coffeehouses." It adds: "Expertly blended together with dairy milk and our celebrated flavours of pumpkin, cinnamon, and nutmeg for you to enjoy the season with a deliciously familiar Starbucks beverage." After a picture of the product was shared on popular food Instagram account, New Foods UK, people rushed to comment. The post said: "Omg! New Starbucks Pumpkin Spiced Latte sachets spotted at Sainsburys." One individual commented: "Ah, I'm so excited." "My favourite," said another. One other wrote: "OMG definitely getting these, when we went to Canada in 2016 I was buying them over there and filling every possible space in my suitcase with them." "We need these," insisted another as they tagged their friends. "We need these this autumn," agreed one other. In other food and drink news, a woman recreated discontinued sweet and savoury Cadbury Dairy Milk chocolate bar. Paige, a home baker, recreated the long-gone Cadbury Ritz in her kitchen and shared the experience to social media. In the clip she declared: 'You're wrong if you don't agree that Ritz and Dairy Milk brought out the best chocolate bar but I've had enough of waiting so I had to make my own.' She then shared her method online, much to the delight of her followers. Plus, Greggs have launched a £4 breakfast meal deal that comes with a bonus item.
Euractiv
2 days ago
- Business
- Euractiv
Half a century on, China and the EU keep pitching for common ground
The European Union-China summit held in Beijing, and shortened at the request of the Chinese, delivered exactly as expected - lengthy discussions on longstanding issues and a tacit agreement to disagree on Ukraine. Although the mood before the summit was sour, European Council President António Costa walked out of Beijing's Great Hall of the People in optimistic spirits, visible in the joint press conference with Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. Thanking China for the 'frank' and 'open' discussions, Costa highlighted the EU's commitment to deepening the bilateral relationship with Beijing, addressing key concerns with honesty. Pointing to the EU and China's significant role in shaping the world order, Costa said the sides discussed ways to jointly tackle climate change, peace and security, as well as trade distortions, imbalances, and market access. 'Fair and mutually beneficial trade relations are possible and should be our joint aim,' Costa said, before giving the floor to von der Leyen. Smiles, camera, inflexion! The Commission President repeatedly used the phrase 'inflexion point' to describe the current relationship between the EU and China, which has reached the 50-year mark. She called on China to 'come forward with real solutions'. Suggesting that the EU may need to reduce its level of openness to Chinese imports if it does not see more reciprocity from Beijing, von der Leyen also said that Chinese leaders had expressed willingness to support more consumption. Beyond overcapacity, the sides also tackled the issue of critical raw materials supply from China, with von der Leyen announcing an 'upgraded export supply mechanism', designed to check and solve problems along the way. During the summit, the sides agreed to a joint press statement on climate change, committing to turn respective 'climate targets into tangible outcomes'. 'Proper handling of frictions' Mincing no criticism towards Brussels' trade actions against Beijing, Chinese President Xi Jinping urged European officials visiting the capital to 'properly handle differences and frictions'. 'The current challenges facing Europe do not come from China,' Xi told von der Leyen, Costa, and the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Kaja Kallas, in the Great Hall of the People. 'It is hoped that the EU can remain open in the trade and investment market, and foster a sound business environment for Chinese enterprises investing and operating in the EU,' Xi stressed to his guests. The Chinese President also called on EU leaders to 'make correct strategic choices', denouncing Brussels' hawkish stance towards his country. Ukraine, agree to disagree But the one topic where divergences cannot be veiled or sugar-coated is that of Ukraine. Answering journalists, von der Leyen said China should use its influence and convince Russia to negotiate peace. 'China has an influence on Russia, like the EU has an influence on Ukraine. It is our expectation that China uses this influence to make sure that Russia is coming seriously to the negotiation table,' the Commission President said. In his remarks, Costa reminded everyone that China is a permanent member of the UN Security Council, and as such has a special responsibility to push for a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. However, no Chinese report from the summit mentions Ukraine or what has been dubbed China's 'tacit support' of Russia. What could have been A Chinese state media editorial framed the summit marking the 50th anniversary of China-EU diplomatic ties as a moment to reflect on the strength and potential of the relationship, rather than its challenges. While China and the EU do not see eye to eye on every issue, disagreement should not be mistaken for confrontation. Instead, it promotes dialogue as the best way to manage differences and deepen mutual interests. The commentary urges a return to mutual respect and constructive engagement, asserting that framing China as a 'systemic rival' only fuels misunderstanding and undermines the potential of one of Europe's most important partnerships. Now that the summit has drawn to a close, its legacy remains uncertain. Lofty declarations and diplomatic courtesies aside, the real measure of success will lie in whether words translate into tangible progress. The coming months will test whether this 50-year-old relationship is entering a new chapter – or merely circling familiar ground. [Edited By Brian Maguire | Euractiv's Advocacy Lab ]
USA Today
3 days ago
- Sport
- USA Today
Paulo Costa rips Reinier de Ridder's 'bad fight' at UFC on ABC 9, gets response
Paulo Costa didn't think much of Reinier de Ridder's performance against Robert Whittaker at UFC on ABC 9. De Ridder (21-2 MMA, 4-0 UFC) kept his undefeated octagon run alive on Saturday when he edged Whittaker (26-9 MMA, 17-7 UFC) by split decision in Abu Dhabi. It was a closely contested bout and resulted in the biggest victory that former two-division ONE Championship titleholder has ever had, but Costa wasn't impressed. The one-time UFC title challenger Costa (15-4 MMA, 7-4 UFC), who is coming off a unanimous decision win over Roman Kopylov at UFC 318 this month, had only negative reviews about de Ridder on social media (via X): When asked about Costa's messages at the UFC on ABC 9 post-event news conference, de Ridder brushed off the criticism and pondered aloud what the outcome was when the Brazilian shared the octagon with Whittaker at UFC 298 in February 2024. "There's always a hater out there," de Ridder told MMA Junkie. "Did Paulo Costa never fight Whittaker? (He did). What happened?"
