News
Erik ten Hag Slams Manchester United After Europa League Draw – Eriksen’s Mistake Costs United
Manchester United’s European campaign started on a sour note as they managed only a 1-1 draw against FC Twente in their Europa League opener. After finishing last season’s Champions League group with just one win, the Red Devils were hoping for a fresh start. However, a costly mistake from Christian Eriksen left United fans disappointed once again.
Eriksen gave Manchester United the lead with a powerful 35th-minute strike, but a costly second-half error allowed Twente to equalize at Old Trafford. Sam Lammers capitalized on Eriksen’s risky turn under pressure and fired past Andre Onana in the 68th minute, sealing the draw.
Ten Hag’s Frustration and Team Criticism After the match, United manager Erik ten Hag expressed his frustration, not only with Eriksen’s mistake but with the team’s overall performance. Ten Hag emphasized that Manchester United had full control of the game after leading 1-0 but failed to capitalize by scoring a second goal, allowing Twente to stay in the match.
“We kept them alive,” Ten Hag said in his post-match interview. “When you’re 1-0 up and controlling the game, you have to be consistent and keep pushing. We didn’t finish it off, and we got punished.”
Ten Hag refrained from blaming Eriksen directly, insisting the team as a whole needed to take responsibility. His comments underscore growing concerns about Manchester United’s ability to maintain a winning mentality and avoid costly errors in important games.
Eriksen’s Costly Error Raises Questions Despite his initial goal, Eriksen’s mistake in the second half overshadowed his contribution. His risky decision to turn under pressure led to Twente’s equalizer, raising doubts about United’s composure and game management. For a team aiming to succeed in European competitions, such lapses could prove costly in their pursuit of success this season.
Manchester United’s Europa League Struggles This draw marks a worrying trend for Manchester United, who have struggled in European competitions in recent years. With their Champions League exit last season still fresh, Ten Hag’s side will need to regroup and find the consistency required to succeed in the Europa League this time around.
Conclusion: Manchester United’s Fight for Consistency As Manchester United reflect on their Europa League opener, the focus will be on how they can bounce back from this disappointing result. Ten Hag’s criticism highlights the need for greater consistency, sharper finishing, and fewer mistakes if they are to make a serious run in European competition.
News
Finance Minister and Central Bank Set Inflation Target of 1-3%
Agreement on Inflation Framework for 2025
Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira and Bank of Thailand (BOT) Governor Sethaput Suthiwartnarueput have reached a significant agreement to establish an inflation target of 1% to 3% for the upcoming year. This decision is part of a broader effort to coordinate fiscal and monetary policies effectively and prevent deflation.
Memorandum of Understanding Approved
The memorandum of understanding (MoU) outlining this inflation target was approved by the Cabinet on Tuesday. The MoU emphasizes that maintaining price stability is crucial for the Thai economy and reflects a commitment to collaboration between the government and the central bank.
- Long-Term Goals: The 1-3% inflation target is set as a medium-term goal, with an eye towards achieving stability in 2025.
Shift in Tone Between Government and BOT
Previous Tensions Addressed
This agreement marks a notable shift in tone between the Finance Ministry and the BOT, especially following previous tensions regarding interest rate policies since the Pheu Thai-led coalition came to power in 2023.
- Commitment to Coordination: The MoU highlights that both parties will work together to ensure inflation remains within the established framework, avoiding significant deviations either above or below the target.
Flexibility in Economic Framework
Adapting to Economic Conditions
The MoU acknowledges that the inflation framework will be flexible to accommodate the needs of Thailand’s small and open economy. Regular consultations will be held to ensure effective coordination between fiscal measures and monetary policy.
- Use of Monetary Tools: The BOT plans to utilize various tools, including policy rates and measures aimed at protecting the value of the baht, to maintain the inflation target.
Preventing Deflation Concerns
Shared Commitment Against Deflation
Both the Finance Ministry and the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the BOT have expressed their determination to prevent prolonged deflation, which could signal economic weakness.
- Reporting Mechanism: The MPC is tasked with reporting its operations to the government every six months, ensuring transparency and accountability in managing inflationary pressures.
A Unified Approach to Economic Stability
The agreement between Thailand’s Finance Minister and the central bank represents a unified approach towards achieving economic stability through a clear inflation target. By fostering cooperation and maintaining open communication channels, both parties aim to navigate potential economic challenges effectively while safeguarding the interests of consumers and businesses alike.
News
Criminal Court Acquits Three Celebrities in High-Profile Forex-3D Case
Overview of the Forex-3D Case Verdict
On December 26, 2024, the Criminal Court in Bangkok acquitted three celebrity defendants involved in the high-profile Forex-3D case, which has drawn significant public attention due to its massive financial implications. The court’s decision comes amidst a backdrop of serious charges related to a Ponzi scheme that defrauded nearly 2.5 billion baht from thousands of victims.
Acquitted Celebrities and Charges
The court acquitted Daryl Cai Yonghui, a Singaporean businessman, Pattanaphol Kunchorn (known as DJ Man), and singer Sutheewan Kunchorn. They were previously accused of operating fraudulent loan schemes and providing false information through a computer system.
- Insufficient Evidence: The court cited a lack of sufficient evidence linking these individuals to the alleged offenses, leading to their acquittal.
Sentencing of Other Defendants
Harsh Penalties for Remaining Accused
While three celebrities were acquitted, three other defendants received severe sentences. Each was sentenced to 20 years in prison after being found guilty of their roles in the Ponzi scheme.
- Total Damages: The court ruled that these defendants were responsible for defrauding 9,825 victims, resulting in total damages exceeding 2.487 billion baht.
Personal Impact on the Acquitted Celebrities
Reactions from Sutheewan Kunchorn
Sutheewan Kunchorn, who had spent six months in detention before being granted bail in November 2023, expressed her relief at the verdict.
- Family Reunion: She emphasized her joy at being able to reunite with her child for the New Year celebrations and reiterated her commitment to following the law throughout the proceedings.
Background on the Forex-3D Scheme
Overview of the Ponzi Scheme
The Forex-3D case is one of Thailand’s largest Ponzi schemes, with total losses amounting to billions of baht. The scheme was initiated by Apirak Kodti, chairman of the Thamma Apirak Foundation, who misled many individuals into investing in foreign currency exchange trading through a program called Forex-3D.
- Celebrity Involvement: The scheme gained traction as it involved various celebrities who helped promote its legitimacy, further enticing victims to invest.
Implications of the Verdict
The acquittal of three celebrities in the Forex-3D case highlights ongoing challenges within Thailand’s legal system regarding financial fraud and consumer protection. As the case continues to unfold with appeals likely from the prosecution, it remains a significant topic of discussion within Thai society and serves as a cautionary tale about investment schemes.
News
Bangkok Bans New Year Fireworks in All But 14 Locations
Authorities Implement Crackdown to Reduce Fire Risks
The Bangkok Metropolitan Authority (BMA) has announced a ban on fireworks, floating lanterns, and related items for the New Year countdown celebrations, allowing them only in 14 designated areas. This regulation aims to prevent fire hazards during the long holiday period, especially as many residents may be away from their homes.
Permission Required for Fireworks Displays
Bangkok Governor Chadchart Sittipunt emphasized the importance of safety, stating that event organizers must seek permission from local authorities before setting off any fireworks.
- Consequences for Violators: Those who disregard this regulation could face fines of up to 60,000 baht and/or imprisonment for up to three years.
Designated Locations for Fireworks
Approved Sites for New Year Celebrations
Despite the general ban, the BMA has permitted fireworks displays in specific locations across Bangkok. The approved sites include:
- CentralWorld
- One Bangkok
- Seacon Square
- Terminal 21
- Iconsiam
- Asiatique The Riverfront
- The Salil Hotel Riverside
- Chatrium Hotel Riverside
- Montien Riverside Hotel
- Chang Chui Creative Park
- Nakapirom Park
- Rim Lagoon Cafe and Restaurant
- JC Kevin Hotel
- Capella Hotel
Safety Measures During Celebrations
Emergency Centers Established
To ensure public safety during the countdown festivities, the BMA will set up emergency centers in various locations. These centers will be equipped to respond to any incidents that may arise during celebrations.
Prioritizing Safety During Festivities
As Bangkok prepares for the New Year celebrations, the decision to restrict fireworks is a proactive measure aimed at ensuring the safety of residents and visitors alike. By designating specific areas for fireworks displays and requiring permits, authorities hope to mitigate fire risks while allowing people to enjoy the festive atmosphere responsibly.
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