Sep 23, 2026, 01:00 AM UTC

Former Slovenian national team captain Aleš Čeh and forward Jan Mlakar have reflected on their football careers and the domestic scene ahead of the rivalry match between NK Maribor and Olimpija Ljubljana.

Čeh, who led the national squad during its historic tournament qualification period, discussed transitioning into coaching after his playing days. He spent over a decade working as an assistant under manager Srečko Katanec, including a seven-year period coaching in Asia.

Meanwhile, 27-year-old striker Mlakar outlined his third stint with NK Maribor. Born in Ljubljana, Mlakar noted that despite never playing for local club Olimpija, he remains confident in Maribor's direction. Addressing Olimpija's current domestic form, Mlakar observed that while their rivals are facing a difficult period, derby matches provide struggling clubs a prime opportunity to rebuild momentum.

Sources: Delo, Siol.net

The demographic reshuffling following the 1974 Turkish military intervention in Cyprus remains a defining chapter in the island's history. Following the conflict, the signing of the Third Vienna Agreement in August 1975 aimed to resolve urgent humanitarian concerns and protect enclaved populations. However, the accord facilitated widespread population transfers between the northern and southern sectors, effectively solidifying the island's bizonal separation. Historians and analysts emphasize that these population movements fundamentally altered the social framework of Cyprus. Fifty years later, the consequences of the 1975 pact continue to influence the geopolitical dynamic and complicate ongoing efforts toward reunification.

Sources: Phileleftheros (philenews)

Danish intelligence services have warned that Moscow is preparing sabotage operations targeting industrial facilities across Europe. The alert comes as European security authorities identified two suspects linked to Russia regarding explosive devices discovered at Germany's Leipzig airport. German reports indicate one suspect obtained an Italian Schengen visa, though Italian officials ruled out his physical presence in the country.

In response to rising regional tensions, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen declared that hybrid actions on European Union soil "will not be tolerated," pledging a decisive reaction.

Meanwhile, the Russian Defense Ministry announced a fresh military campaign aimed at destroying Ukraine's energy network. In turn, Ukrainian forces expanded long-range drone strikes against Russian oil facilities, causing domestic fuel shortages that forced Russia to import petroleum products.

Sources: Corriere della Sera, La Repubblica.

Tensions near the Strait of Hormuz have escalated following direct clashes between United States forces and Iranian vessels. According to US Central Command, American forces destroyed five Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps vessels after Iranian forces attempted to target US naval ships.

In response, Iranian state media reported launching 20 missiles at American military facilities in Jordan, while claiming to have struck six vessels, including three oil tankers and an aircraft carrier.

Although emergency crews extinguished a fire aboard a struck tanker, US President Donald Trump insisted maritime traffic through the strait remains operational. Meanwhile, American intelligence officials warned that Iranian forces could further intensify regional hostilities following the clashes.

Sources: Corriere della Sera, Il Messaggero, La Repubblica.

Spanish authorities have established two temporary reception facilities in the enclave of Ceuta to house roughly 1,800 to 2,000 migrants who remained following a massive border crossing in late July. The shelters aim to clear public beaches and streets where hundreds had been sleeping outdoors.

Heavy security deployments by Spanish and Moroccan forces successfully prevented a rumored secondary crossing planned for mid-August, keeping the border perimeter calm over the weekend. Despite the reduced numbers, local frustration remains elevated in Ceuta, with residents expressing concern over municipal strain and political tensions surrounding the management of the ongoing situation.

Sources: Correctiv, Die Zeit, FAZ, ORF, Tagesschau.