Latest news with #CentralAmerican
Fox Sports
16 hours ago
- Sport
- Fox Sports
Why Is Saudi Arabia Playing In the Gold Cup?
The United States men's national team's next opponent at the Concacaf Gold Cup isn't one of its usual foes — it's not even a country from the same region. It's Saudi Arabia, which pulled off one of the greatest upsets in World Cup history at Qatar 2022, when it beat Lionel Messi and eventual champions Argentina 2-1 in the group stage. But why is Saudi Arabia playing in the Concacaf Gold Cup? Here's everything you need to know about the U.S. men's next challenge: Gold Cup invites The Concacaf Gold Cup has a rich history of inviting countries from outside the North American, Central American and Caribbean regions, dating back to 1996, when Brazil competed as a guest two years after it won the World Cup at USA 1994. Despite its international prowess at the time, Brazil didn't win the Gold Cup in 1996 — in fact, no guest nation has ever won the tournament. Concacaf took a 16-year break from inviting teams to compete in the Gold Cup, but the tradition resumed in 2021 with Qatar as part of a partnership between Concacaf and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) that was established in 2018. Saudi Arabia, which is also part of the AFC, is competing in this year's tournament as well as the 2027 edition. In total, eight nations have participated in the Gold Cup as a guest team: Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, South Africa and South Korea. Brazil (1996 and 2003) and Colombia (2000) have each finished as the runner-up in the tournament. What happened in 2022? In what has been referred to as the most shocking result in World Cup history, Saudi Arabia beat Argentina 2-1 in its group stage opener. At the time, Saudi Arabia was ranked 51st in the world by FIFA, while Argentina was ranked third and entered the tournament on a 36-match unbeaten streak. Saudi Arabia's Cinderella story was short-lived, however, as it failed to advance past the group stage after losing to Mexico and Poland in its next two matches. Saudi Arabia has already qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be held in 16 cities across Canada, Mexico and the United States. Can they beat the USMNT? On paper, Saudi Arabia doesn't have the talent the U.S. men's national team does, but as evidenced in 2022, it's more than capable of coming up with a big result. That's especially true now that Hervé Renard is back for his second stint as Saudi Arabia's coach. Saudi Arabia beat Haiti in its opening match at the Gold Cup, while the U.S. enjoyed a 5-0 thrashing of Trinidad and Tobago in its opener. The U.S. is a +150 favorite to win the match and has +200 odds win the entire tournamnet, which is only second to Mexico (+170). Saudi Arabia is ranked 58th in the world by FIFA. The U.S. is currently ranked 16th. Want great stories delivered right to your inbox? Create or log in to your FOX Sports account , and follow leagues, teams and players to receive a personalized newsletter daily! recommended Get more from Gold Cup Follow your favorites to get information about games, news and more
Time of India
21 hours ago
- Health
- Time of India
When chia seeds can harm your health. Harvard liver specialist advises 3 right ways to consume them
Chia seeds are often celebrated as a superfood, packed with nutrients that promote heart, brain, and digestive health . But according to a Dr. Saurabh Sethi, Harvard and Stanford-trained gastroenterologist, many people may be consuming them in a potentially harmful way. In a YouTube clip, Dr. Saurabh Sethi has issued a clear warning: eating dry chia seeds could pose serious risks. Instead, he recommends three specific ways to prepare them for maximum safety and benefit. The Risk of Eating Chia Seeds Dry While chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, protein, and antioxidants, their ability to absorb water is exactly what makes them dangerous when eaten dry. These tiny seeds can expand significantly upon contact with liquids. If consumed without soaking, they may swell in your throat or esophagus, which can cause discomfort or even choking in rare cases. The Right Way to Eat Chia Seeds To avoid these issues and make the most of chia seeds' health benefits, Dr. Sethi suggests incorporating them into your meals using these three safe and effective methods: by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Join new Free to Play WWII MMO War Thunder War Thunder Play Now 1. Chia Pudding Soak one tablespoon of chia seeds in half a cup of almond or coconut milk for at least two hours—ideally overnight. This allows the seeds to fully expand and take on a gel-like texture, making them easy to digest and safe to consume. Chia pudding can be flavored with fruits or spices for a nutritious breakfast or snack. 2. Chia Fresca For a quick hydration and digestion boost, mix a tablespoon of chia seeds into a glass of water. Let it sit for about 15 minutes to allow the seeds to swell. Adding lemon enhances the flavor and may support digestion. This simple drink has long been popular in Central American cultures for its energizing effects. 3. Chia Smoothie If you prefer smoothies, pre-soak the seeds for 10–15 minutes before blending. This extra step helps avoid the dry-seed issue and enhances the smoothie's fiber and omega-3 content, making it more filling and nutrient-dense. Why Chia Seeds Are Worth Including in Your Diet Chia seeds are more than just a trendy topping. As highlighted by Harvard Medical School, they're rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a plant-based omega-3 fatty acid that supports heart and brain health. Since the human body can't produce ALA on its own, it must be obtained from food. In addition to omega-3s, chia seeds offer nearly 10 grams of fiber per ounce, helping regulate blood sugar, improve digestion, and support weight management. The seeds are also a rare plant source of complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids. Thanks to their high antioxidant levels—including polyphenols and carotenoids—chia seeds may protect against inflammation, chronic disease, and even cognitive decline. While chia seeds can be a nutritional powerhouse, how you consume them makes all the difference. Eating them dry can cause more harm than good. By soaking them before use—in puddings, drinks, or smoothies—you unlock their full benefits without risking discomfort or health complications.
American Press
a day ago
- Politics
- American Press
ICE raid nets 84 arrests at Delta Downs
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested 84 people allegedly unlawfully in the country during a raid at a southwest Louisiana racetrack, the agency announced Tuesday. ICE said it raided the Delta Downs Racetrack, Hotel and Casino on Monday alongside other state and federal agencies, including the FBI and the U.S. Border Patrol. The raid occurred despite a recent Trump administration directive for immigration officers to pause arrests at farms, restaurants and hotels due to concerns over the economic impact of aggressive enforcement. Stephen Miller, White House deputy chief of staff and the main architect of Trump's immigration policies, has pushed ICE to aim for at least 3,000 arrests a day, up from about 650 a day during the first five months of Trump's second term. ICE said authorities had 'received intelligence' that businesses operating at the racetrack's stables employed 'unauthorized workers' who were then targeted in the raid. Of the dozens of workers detained during the raid, 'at least two' had prior criminal records, according to the agency. 'These enforcement operations aim to disrupt illegal employment networks that threaten the integrity of our labor systems, put American jobs at risk and create pathways for exploitation within critical sectors of our economy,' said Steven Stavinoha, U.S. Customs and Border Protection director of field operations in New Orleans, in a written statement. 'Our Company complies fully with federal labor laws, and to our knowledge, no Delta Downs team members were involved in this matter,' said David Strow, a spokesperson for Boyd Gaming Corporation which owns the racetrack, in an emailed statement. 'We will cooperate with law enforcement as requested.' In the past few weeks, ICE has engaged in other large-scale raids across Louisiana. On May 27, the agency raided a federally funded flood-reduction project in New Orleans and reported arresting 15 Central American workers. And the agency said it arrested 10 Chinese nationals working at massage parlors in Baton Rouge during a June 11 raid. Rachel Taber, an organizer with the Louisiana-based immigrant rights group Unión Migrante, criticized the raids. 'Our economy runs on immigrants,' Taber said. 'And when we let ourselves be divided by racial hatred, our economy for everyone suffers.'
San Francisco Chronicle
a day ago
- Politics
- San Francisco Chronicle
Immigration raid at Louisiana racetrack ends with more than 80 arrests
NEW ORLEANS (AP) — The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested upward of 80 people unlawfully in the country during a raid at a southwest Louisiana racetrack, the agency announced Tuesday. ICE said it raided the Delta Downs Racetrack, Hotel and Casino in Calcasieu Parish on Monday alongside other state and federal agencies, including the FBI and the U.S. Border Patrol. The raid angered one racehorse industry group and comes at a time when the Trump administration is pursuing more arrests. Stephen Miller, White House deputy chief of staff and the main architect of Trump's immigration policies, has pushed ICE to aim for at least 3,000 arrests a day, up from about 650 a day during the first five months of Trump's second term. ICE said authorities had 'received intelligence' that businesses operating at the racetrack's stables employed 'unauthorized workers' who were then targeted in the raid. Of the dozens of workers detained during the raid, 'at least two' had prior criminal records, according to the agency. 'These enforcement operations aim to disrupt illegal employment networks that threaten the integrity of our labor systems, put American jobs at risk and create pathways for exploitation within critical sectors of our economy,' said Steven Stavinoha, U.S. Customs and Border Protection director of field operations in New Orleans, in a written statement. But some racing industry leaders were livid. 'To come in and take that many workers away and leave the horse racing operation stranded and without workers is unacceptable,' said Peter Ecabert, general counsel for the National Horsemen's Benevolent and Protective Association, which represents 29,000 thoroughbred racehorse owners and trainers, including at Delta Downs. 'If they (ICE) were willing to come in and try and work with us, we are willing to make sure things are done in an orderly way," Ecabert added. "But what they have done here leaves everyone in a bad situation.' Groomers and other stable workers are essential and allow horses to receive round-the-clock skilled care, Ecabert said, noting that the work is grueling and it can be very difficult to find people willing to do the job. David Strow, a spokesperson for the racetrack's owner, Boyd Gaming Corporation, said that the company 'complies fully' with federal labor laws and that 'no Delta Downs team members were involved.' 'We will cooperate with law enforcement as requested," he added in an emailed statement. In the past few weeks, ICE has engaged in other large-scale raids across Louisiana. On May 27, the agency raided a federally funded flood-reduction project in New Orleans and reported arresting 15 Central American workers. And the agency said it arrested 10 Chinese nationals working at massage parlors in Baton Rouge during a June 11 raid. Rachel Taber, an organizer with the Louisiana-based immigrant rights group Unión Migrante, criticized the raids as harmful and hypocritical. 'Our economy runs on immigrants,' Taber said. 'And when we let ourselves be divided by racial hatred, our economy for everyone suffers.' ___
2 days ago
- Politics
ICE arrests 84 people at Louisiana racetrack
NEW ORLEANS -- The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested 84 people unlawfully in the country during a raid at a southwest Louisiana racetrack, the agency announced Tuesday. ICE said it raided the Delta Downs Racetrack, Hotel and Casino in Calcasieu Parish on Monday alongside other state and federal agencies, including the FBI and the U.S. Border Patrol. The raid occurred despite a recent Trump administration directive for immigration officers to pause arrests at farms, restaurants and hotels due to concerns over the economic impact of aggressive enforcement. Stephen Miller, White House deputy chief of staff and the main architect of Trump's immigration policies, has pushed ICE to aim for at least 3,000 arrests a day, up from about 650 a day during the first five months of Trump's second term. ICE said authorities had 'received intelligence' that businesses operating at the racetrack's stables employed 'unauthorized workers' who were then targeted in the raid. Of the dozens of workers detained during the raid, 'at least two' had prior criminal records, according to the agency. 'These enforcement operations aim to disrupt illegal employment networks that threaten the integrity of our labor systems, put American jobs at risk and create pathways for exploitation within critical sectors of our economy,' said Steven Stavinoha, U.S. Customs and Border Protection director of field operations in New Orleans, in a written statement. 'Our Company complies fully with federal labor laws, and to our knowledge, no Delta Downs team members were involved in this matter,' said David Strow, a spokesperson for Boyd Gaming Corporation which owns the racetrack, in an emailed statement. 'We will cooperate with law enforcement as requested.' In the past few weeks, ICE has engaged in other large-scale raids across Louisiana. On May 27, the agency raided a federally funded flood-reduction project in New Orleans and reported arresting 15 Central American workers. And the agency said it arrested 10 Chinese nationals working at massage parlors in Baton Rouge during a June 11 raid. Rachel Taber, an organizer with the Louisiana-based immigrant rights group Unión Migrante, criticized the raids. 'Our economy runs on immigrants,' Taber said. 'And when we let ourselves be divided by racial hatred, our economy for everyone suffers.' ___
