Monaco pops up in global headlines: pope visit debunking inequality; tiny principality as wealth magnet on the Riviera. Monaco: sovereign microstate, ruled by the Grimaldis since 1297.
French prosecutors have ordered PSG defender Achraf Hakimi to stand trial on rape charges after a woman accused him in 2023. Hakimi denies the allegations and plans to appeal. The case highlights ongoing issues in men's football regarding the #MeToo movement, with no trial date set yet.
Pope Leo will visit Algeria from April 13-15, marking the first papal trip to the country. The visit aims to promote interfaith dialogue and commemorate St. Augustine, who was born in Algeria. The trip is part of a broader tour including Cameroon, Angola, and Equatorial Guinea, reflecting the Vatican's focus on Africa's growing Catholic community.
Paul Pogba, returning from injury, scored in a friendly for Monaco, which is fighting for Champions League qualification. The former World Cup winner has played limited minutes since joining Monaco last year due to injuries and off-field issues. Monaco is sixth in Ligue 1 with seven matches remaining.
Liverpool overturned a first-leg deficit with goals from Szoboszlai, Ekitike, Gravenberch, and Salah, setting up a quarter-final against PSG. The match featured key injuries, missed chances, and Salah's 50th Champions League goal. Liverpool's win signals a resurgence ahead of their next challenge.
Pope Leo arrived in Monaco for a nine-hour visit, his first since 1538, to promote peace, environmental issues, and the defense of life. He met with Prince Albert and the Catholic community, emphasizing global conflicts and Monaco's role in diplomacy and ecological stewardship.