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The prospect of a historic quadruple for Arsenal has evaporated. After a Carabao Cup final loss and a humbling defeat to second‑tier Southampton, the Gunners now face only two competitions.In a dramatic FA Cup quarter‑final, a late goal by Shea Charles clinched a 2‑1 win for the Saints, who have been reshaped by manager Tonda Eckert from relegation candidates into promotion frontrunners within six months.Southampton opened the scoring eleven minutes before halftime when Ross Stewart capitalised on a defensive lapse, slipping a low finish past Arsenal keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga. The lead was restored shortly after when substitute Viktor Gyökeres headed home, leveling the match.However, the decisive moment arrived in the 84th minute. After a swift build‑up involving Tom Fellows, Charles received the ball inside the box and calmly placed it past the keeper, sending the Saints into the FA Cup semi‑finals at the end of the month.The victory marks only the fifth occasion this season that a team has beaten the Premier League leaders, underscoring Southampton’s resurgence. The club also honoured its 50‑year FA Cup triumph with a special yellow‑and‑blue kit, recalling Bobby Stokes' winning goal in 1976.For Arsenal, the defeat compounds recent setbacks. Manager Mikel Arteta now has less than 48 hours before the team departs for Lisbon to face Sporting CP in the Champions League quarter‑final first leg, followed by a crucial Premier League clash at Manchester City.Despite the loss, Arsenal showed flashes of life, with Gyökeres equalising and a flurry of chances in stoppage time, but Southampton’s disciplined defence and Charles’ composure proved decisive.

Rangers seized a 4-2 win against Dundee United, lifting them to the summit of the Scottish Premiership for the first time in more than two years. Goals from Ryan Naderi, Dujon Sterling, Thelo Aasgaard and substitute Bojan Miovski proved decisive, while Dundee United replied through Amar Fatah and Zac Sapsford. Manager Danny Rohl, who took charge in October when Rangers were 13 points adrift of Hearts, praised his squad’s mindset, urging them to stay "on the front foot" as the season enters its final stretch. With six games remaining, Rangers now lead Hearts on goal difference, though the Jambos can reclaim the lead when they travel to Livingston on Sunday. Celtic, five points behind, face Dundee later the same day. Rohl emphasized that the club must remain "the hunter" despite the newfound top‑spot, insisting that a consistent run of six wins will secure a trophy. He also warned that the upcoming away match at Falkirk will be "very, very difficult" and that the team must take the season "step by step". In a parallel storyline, Hibernian thumped Kilmarnock 3-0 at Easter Road, moving within three points of fourth‑placed Motherwell. Early strikes from Owen Elding and Felix Passlack set the tone, with substitute Ante Suto adding a late goal. Meanwhile, St Mirren secured a 2-0 victory over Aberdeen, with Jonah Ayunga opening the scoring and Alex Gogic heading home the winner, keeping the Dons three points clear of the relegation‑playoff zone. At Fir Park, Falkirk earned a historic top‑six finish by beating Motherwell 3-2. Early header by Barney Stewart set the pace, and despite a volley from Elliot Watt that levelled the match, Falkirk restored their lead before halftime and held on for the win, marking their first top‑half finish in 31 years. These results tighten a fiercely contested title race and underline the volatility of the Scottish top flight as the campaign heads into its decisive phase.

The UK medicines regulator has opened an inquiry into a growing number of clinics that sell injectable peptides while promoting them as cures for everything from ageing to injury recovery. The investigation, disclosed by the Guardian, focuses on whether these businesses are breaching the Human Medicines Regulations 2012 by making unauthorised medicinal claims. Interest in peptide‑based treatments has surged in recent years, driven by social‑media influencers, some healthcare professionals, and direct‑to‑consumer marketers. Yet the scientific foundation for most of these claims is weak, with the bulk of research confined to animal models or cell‑culture studies. According to an MHRA spokesperson, any clinic that advertises a peptide as having therapeutic benefits must treat the product as a medicine, which triggers a comprehensive regulatory framework. "If clinics offering peptide injections make medicinal claims for those treatments, the products will be considered medicines and subject to regulation," the agency warned, adding that it will act against any identified breaches. Guardian reporters identified several high‑ranking Google search results that list peptides such as Cortexin (promoted for neuroprotection), BPC‑157 (claimed to aid tissue repair), and Thymosin Alpha (advertised to boost immunity). After being contacted, one clinic removed the statements from its website. Another clinic, while acknowledging the limited human evidence, continued to market seven specific peptides, providing price lists (£350 per month for a single peptide, £450 for two) and offering delivery via vials, syringes, or pre‑filled pens for an additional fee. During a free consultation, a clinician highlighted the experimental nature of the products, noting the absence of large‑scale, randomised clinical trials and recommending a break of four to eight weeks between treatment cycles to mitigate unknown risks. The clinician suggested BPC‑157 for post‑exercise recovery, describing it as a facilitator of cellular repair and blood flow, but warned against its use in smokers or individuals with a family history of cancer due to potential angiogenic effects. The second peptide discussed was MOTS‑C, portrayed as a mitochondrial enhancer that could improve stress resilience, lower insulin resistance, and reduce visceral fat by boosting cellular energy production (ATP). The MHRA confirmed it is reviewing whether the clinician’s statements constitute medicinal claims. The clinic defended its approach, emphasizing that it clearly informs clients that the peptides are not licensed medicines and that the evidence base is largely pre‑clinical. In a broader statement, Lynda Scammell, head of borderline products at the MHRA, explained that peptide products may be marketed as cosmetics, supplements, or medicines, and each case is assessed on its intended use, pharmacological effect, and supporting evidence. She added, "We disregard claims that products are for ‘research purposes’ if it is clear that such claims are being used as an attempt to avoid medicines regulations." Peptides are short chains of amino acids, some of which occur naturally (e.g., insulin). While synthetic peptide analogues like semaglutide and tirzepatide have secured approval for weight‑loss treatments, many of the compounds promoted by these clinics remain experimental and lack the rigorous safety and efficacy testing required for medicinal products.

Liverpool's humiliating 4-0 defeat to Manchester City in the FA Cup quarter-finals has raised concerns about the team's form and manager Arne Slot's future. Slot criticized his team's performance, particularly in the 10 minutes after halftime, where he felt they lacked the 'fighting spirit' needed to compete at a high level. The manner of the defeat will heighten scrutiny of Slot's future, especially with Liverpool's upcoming Champions League quarter-final against Paris Saint-Germain. A similar performance in that tie could prove detrimental to Slot's position as manager. Erling Haaland scored a hat-trick for Manchester City, contributing significantly to their eighth consecutive FA Cup semi-final appearance. Slot emphasized the need for his team to improve defensively and show a better reaction to the loss, particularly against top-tier teams like PSG. Liverpool's Dominik Szoboszlai echoed Slot's sentiments, stating that the team's 'fighting spirit wasn't there enough.' The defeat marks Liverpool's 15th of the season, their most since the 2014-15 season. Liverpool's struggles have been compounded by Mohamed Salah's missed chances, including a penalty when City were 4-0 ahead. Slot, however, chose not to single out individuals, instead focusing on the team's overall performance and the need for improvement.

In what can only be described as a humiliating exit, Liverpool were beaten 4‑0 by Manchester City in the FA Cup quarter‑final, a result that has thrown the future of manager Arne Slot into further doubt.The Etihad crowd watched City dominate from the first whistle, with Erling Haaland completing a hat‑trick by the 57th minute. The Norwegian’s third came from open play after a series of defensive lapses, sealing a comprehensive victory that left Liverpool supporters emptying the upper tiers of the South Stand.Liverpool’s own chances were squandered. Mohamed Salah missed a late penalty, a rare misfire that underscored his waning influence. Earlier, Virgil van Dijk conceded his fourth penalty of the season – a stark contrast to the single penalty he had given up in his previous 319 Premier League appearances for the club.Mid‑fielder Dominik Szoboszlai offered a blunt self‑assessment after the match, stating, “The fighting spirit wasn’t there enough, the mentality wasn’t there enough. None of us were there to be honest as much as we could.” His words captured the collective lack of resolve that defined Liverpool’s performance.Beyond the immediate disappointment, the defeat raises the stakes for Slot’s upcoming Champions League quarter‑final first leg against Paris Saint‑Germain. With Liverpool still carrying the Premier League’s highest wage bill, the club’s hierarchy and fans will be watching closely to see whether the team can salvage the season or face a deeper crisis.The match exposed systemic issues: a static defense that allowed City’s left‑back Antoine Semenyo and striker Erling Haaland to exploit gaps, a goalkeeper positioning that appeared indecisive, and a general absence of leadership on the pitch. As the season progresses, the spotlight remains firmly on Slot, whose tenure now hinges on a single chance to revive Liverpool’s dwindling fortunes.

When the sanctioned Russian tanker Anatoly Kolodkin docked at Matanzas and off‑loaded roughly 700,000 barrels of crude, observers were left questioning why Washington had temporarily lifted its oil embargo on the island.Just weeks earlier, President Donald Trump had taken to social media to declare an end to any oil or cash flowing to Cuba. Yet, in a stark reversal, he later told reporters he had no objection to oil shipments reaching the country, allowing the Russian vessel to pass.Adding to the intrigue, Cuban authorities announced the release of 2,010 prisoners as a “humanitarian gesture” for Holy Week. Analysts quickly linked the pardons to the tanker’s arrival, interpreting both moves as evidence of ongoing, albeit secret, talks between Washington and Havana.The U.S. oil blockade has already pushed Cuba’s fragile economy to the brink: tourism has all but vanished after airlines from Canada, Russia, China and France withdrew, with Iberia set to exit by the end of May. Most petrol stations are shuttered and blackouts have become a daily reality.Population estimates now sit at 9.5 million, down from a pre‑crisis peak after a two‑million‑person exodus over the past five years. Citizens describe a systemic collapse of health, education and transport services.With official channels silent, Cubans are piecing together fragmented leaks—largely from the U.S. side—to gauge the direction of the negotiations.The dialogue pits Trump’s hard‑line rhetoric, which vows to “take” the island, against Cuba’s insistence that its political system is non‑negotiable.One diplomat suggested the tanker’s arrival could be a tactical humanitarian showcase, but also noted it might serve as a confidence‑building measure. The simultaneous prisoner release leans toward the latter interpretation.Professor William LeoGrande of American University observed that such reciprocal gestures often precede substantive diplomatic progress.Meanwhile, another Russian‑flagged tanker, the Sea Horse, carrying about 200,000 barrels, was sighted moving toward Venezuela, hinting at a coordinated “carrot” strategy aimed at both Havana and Caracas.Although oil alone is unlikely to compel the Cuban regime to relinquish power, the recent events suggest a more transactional pathway may be emerging.Since 2021, Cuba has nurtured a private sector of over 10,000 small‑ and medium‑sized enterprises (Mipymes), spawning a new class of affluent Cubans often tied to the regime and the army’s economic arm, Gaesa.Negotiations appear to be led by Raúl Guillermo Rodríguez Castro, a grandson of former President Raúl Castro and son of the late Gaesa chief Luis Rodríguez López‑Calleja.In a recent CNN interview, Fidel Castro’s grandson Sandro Castro, a 33‑year‑old influencer and businessman, argued that the majority of Cubans now favor a capitalist model over communism.His open criticism of President Miguel Díaz‑Canel—calling his performance “unsatisfactory”—would normally trigger state security action, yet appears tolerated, suggesting the U.S. may be leveraging Díaz‑Canel’s vulnerability in the talks.Analysts speculate a possible outcome where Cuba’s economy opens to foreign investment while senior Castros retain political influence, aligning with Trump’s expressed desire for a “friendly” transition reminiscent of recent moves in Venezuela.One senior diplomat in Havana noted that the United States might permit existing private businesses to continue operating, provided they also open markets to U.S. interests.The prospect of any Castro family member retaining authority is likely to provoke fierce opposition from hard‑line Cuban‑American groups, epitomized by figures like Marco Rubio, who have long advocated for the Castros’ removal.Perhaps the greatest concern remains the roughly 40 % of Cubans who are not part of the private sector and rely on state support; many are elderly and now face the very real threat of starvation.

In Lebanon, the war with Israel has severely impacted the traditional funeral process. Normally, the deceased are given a final procession through their hometown before burial. However, due to Israel's expanding ground invasion in south Lebanon, families are being forced to abandon these customs.In Tyre, temporary graves have been established with brief epitaphs marking the deceased. The burials are conducted using a special Islamic rite called wadiaa, which allows for the casket, but not the body, to be exhumed later. This practice is usually reserved for exceptional circumstances like war.Rabih Koubaissi, who oversees burials in Tyre, noted that people have an emotional attachment to burying their loved ones in their ancestral land, reflecting their sense of belonging and heritage. The brutality of war has made it impossible to follow traditional washing and preparation of bodies, sometimes only collecting pieces of bodies for burial.Families face the heartbreaking reality of having to bury their loved ones twice. The Israeli military's plan to occupy areas south of the Litani River indefinitely raises fears that reburials may not be possible for months or even years. This situation has left the deceased with few visitors, as most families have been forced to leave Tyre due to increased attacks.Hecham Reda, a medic, expressed his fear of not being able to rebury his friend Hadi back home, reflecting the anxiety many people from south Lebanon are experiencing. Koubaissi finds it difficult to comfort grieving families, trying to convey sympathy without revealing the harsh realities of the situation.

Science is often seen as a dry and serious field, but does it have to be? A recent study published in Proceedings of the Royal Society B found that scientists deliver an average of only 1.6 jokes per presentation, with 66% generating only polite chuckles.The findings confirm previous research, including a randomized clinical trial conducted over 20 years ago by Timandra Harkness and Helen Pilcher under the guise of the Comedy Research Project. The study found that laughter levels failed to reach statistical significance, even when scientists attempted to incorporate humor into their talks.However, research suggests that humor can be an effective tool in science communication. A 2025 study called Wit Meets Wisdom found that humor can boost credibility and likability, making researchers seem more trustworthy and their findings less likely to be disputed.Helen Pilcher, a science writer and author, argues that scientists should not be afraid to adopt a more playful tone when communicating their research. By incorporating humor, scientists can build cohesion and foster a sense of shared perspective with their audience.Pilcher suggests that scientists can use humor to make their research more engaging and memorable, without having to convert it into standup comedy. By doing so, scientists can make their research more accessible and enjoyable for a wider audience.

Comedian Bill Bailey stars in his new standup special 'Thoughtifier' on Channel 4 at 10pm. The show features a laser harp performance that blends humor and virtuosity. Bailey also explores topics like AI sea shanties and the teaspoon industry.In other TV highlights, Inside Britain's National Parks airs on BBC Two at 7:05pm, showcasing conservation efforts in Pembrokeshire. Celebrity Sabotage returns to ITV1 at 8pm, with Jill Scott as a guest saboteur.Sports fans can catch the Men's FA Cup Football match between Man City and Liverpool on TNT Sports 1 at 11:30am. The Champions Cup Rugby Union match between Bath and Saracens airs on Premier Sports 2 at 2pm.Film screenings include Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery on Comedy Central at 9pm and The Outfit on BBC One at 10:50pm.