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Soccer star Karim Benzema is sentenced over a sex tape blackmail scandal

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Soccer star Karim Benzema, who plays for Real Madrid and the French national team, has been found guilty of conspiring to blackmail a former teammate over a sex tape. The scandal has been unfolding since 2015 and caused major setbacks in both players’ careers.

A court in Versailles, France, handed Benzema a one-year suspended jail sentence and fined him 75,000 euros (about $84,000). The court also found four of Benzema’s co-defendants guilty of attempted blackmail.

Lawyers for Benzema have told reporters that he plans to appeal. “This outcome in no way corresponds with the reality of events,” lawyer Antoine Vey said after the verdict, according to Reuters.

Prosecutors have portrayed Benzema as an intermediary who, in 2015, tried to persuade French teammate Mathieu Valbuena to pay blackmailers who were threatening to release a sex tape — an allegation that Benzema has long denied.

At the trial, Valbuena testified that Benzema approached him and said he had a friend who “can solve your problem,” The Associated Press reported. In a wiretapped call played in court, Benzema is heard talking to Karim Zenati, his co-defendant and old friend, informing him about the exchange with Valbuena.

Benzema was removed from the national team after the scandal erupted. At the time, Benzema, who is of Algerian descent, said that racism contributed to the decision.

But now, Benzema is back on the French team. He played this year in the European Championship.

And it does not appear the court outcome will threaten his place on the team. The French Football Federation did not immediately respond to NPR’s request for comment but has signaled in the past month to other news organizations that a guilty verdict would not automatically result in Benzema being cut from the roster.

NPR was not immediately able to reach Real Madrid. Benzema is expected to play in his club’s Champions League match on Wednesday against Sheriff Tiraspol.

Valbuena’s career has been less successful in the years since the scandal broke. He’s currently playing for Olympiacos, a Greek team. But he hasn’t returned to France’s national team.

“He has suffered sports prejudices that are difficult to repair,” his lawyer Didier Domat told the AP. “We are satisfied that his status as a victim has been recognized.”

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FC Goa vs Mohun Bagan: ISL 2024 Showdown

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Get ready for the thrilling FC Goa vs Mohun Bagan clash on December 20, 2024, in the Indian Super League. Get ready to watch!

The Indian Super League brings FC Goa and Mohun Bagan together for an exciting clash on December 20, 2024. The match will take place at the iconic Fatorda Stadium in Goa, known for its vibrant football atmosphere. FC Goa is famous for their attacking gameplay and will aim to dominate using their home advantage in this key match.

Led by their captain, FC Goa’s sharp midfield and striking prowess make them formidable opponents on the pitch. Mohun Bagan, with their rich history and tactical brilliance, has a squad that blends young talent and experienced players seamlessly. The Mariners’ defensive strategies and strong coaching have made them one of the most consistent teams in the league.

Fans can expect a thrilling midfield contest and exciting individual battles between strikers and defenders during this crucial game. FC Goa’s dynamic striker will test Mohun Bagan’s resilient defenders, creating a showdown worth watching for football enthusiasts. The match could influence the standings significantly as both teams aim for the top positions in the league table.

The atmosphere at Fatorda Stadium promises to be electrifying, with fans cheering passionately for their favorite teams throughout the game. Don’t miss this epic battle in the Indian Super League as two top teams clash for glory and league dominance.

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Pep Guardiola Shoulders Responsibility for Manchester City Loss to United

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Pep Guardiola blames himself! Pep Guardiola took full responsibility for Manchester City’s disappointing 2-1 defeat against Manchester United, admitting he “was not good enough.” The loss came in a closely contested derby that saw United capitalize on critical moments, leaving City to rue missed opportunities. Guardiola’s tactical decisions have come under scrutiny, with some analysts suggesting changes in formation or lineup may have been necessary to counter United’s gameplay.

Speaking to the press, Guardiola emphasized that the blame for the defeat lies with him. “I’m not good enough. I didn’t make the right decisions today,” he said, reflecting on the team’s performance. City started strongly, controlling possession and creating early chances, but United’s resilience and counterattacking strategy ultimately sealed the match in their favor. Pep Guardiola blames himself!

The result leaves Manchester City trailing in the league standings, with increasing pressure to secure consistent wins to stay competitive in the title race. Guardiola, however, remained optimistic, urging his squad to learn from the loss and focus on upcoming matches. Meanwhile, United celebrated a crucial victory that solidified their standing as strong contenders this season.

Fans and pundits alike are debating Guardiola’s admission, as City look to bounce back in their next fixture.

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Bengaluru FC Aim to Leverage Home Advantage to End FC Goa’s Winning Streak

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In the upcoming Indian Super League (ISL) fixture, Bengaluru FC is set to host FC Goa at the Kanteerava Stadium, hoping to end Goa’s impressive unbeaten streak and claim a crucial three points. With Bengaluru’s strong home record, they look to exploit the advantage of playing in front of their passionate supporters to halt Goa’s momentum.

Bengaluru FC, who have been inconsistent this season, will be aiming to regroup and put their best foot forward in this clash. Their attacking options, led by the experienced Sunil Chhetri, will be key as they face one of the most solid sides in the league. Despite their inconsistency, Bengaluru will be looking to ride the wave of support from their home crowd and create the chances needed to break down Goa’s defense.

On the other hand, FC Goa comes into this match riding high on confidence, having remained unbeaten for a considerable stretch. Their well-balanced squad, with notable players like Edu Bedia and Jorge Ortiz, have been a force to reckon with. Goa’s fluid passing game and lethal counter-attacks have made them a tough opponent this season, and they will be keen to extend their winning run.

Bengaluru FC’s defense will be tested as FC Goa’s potent attack looks to exploit any gaps in the backline. Bengaluru’s defense, led by the experienced Juanan and the dynamic Sandesh Jhingan, will need to remain sharp and organized to limit Goa’s chances. If Bengaluru can shut down the creative outlets of Goa, they stand a good chance of taking the upper hand in this high-stakes encounter.

With both teams needing points for different reasons, this match promises to be a thrilling contest. Bengaluru FC is looking to put their recent struggles behind them, while FC Goa is keen on extending their unbeaten run. As the match approaches, the battle between Bengaluru FC’s home advantage and FC Goa’s unstoppable momentum is sure to capture the imagination of fans.

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