Donald Trump and the House speaker, Mike Johnson, plan to push for a bill to ban non-citizens from voting, the latest step by Republicans to falsely claim migrants are coming to the country and casting ballots.
Voting when a person is not eligible – for instance if they lack US citizenship – is already illegal under federal law. It is unclear what the bill Johnson and the former president will discuss in their Friday press conference at Mar-a-Lago will do to alter that. But it is one more way for the former president to focus on election security and to ding the Biden administration over the situation at the US-Mexico border, a key issue for likely Republican voters this November.
Like the other claims Trump makes about the 2020 election being stolen, the talking point about migrant voting does not have facts to back it up.
There is no evidence of widespread non-citizen voting, nor are there even many examples of individual instances of the practice, despite strenuous efforts in some states to find these cases. A large study by the Brennan Center of the 2016 election found that just 0.0001% of votes across 42 jurisdictions, with 23.5m votes, were suspected to be non-citizens voting, 30 incidents in total.
One review in Georgia found about 1,600 instances of non-citizens registering to vote from 1997 to 2022. In these instances, safeguards in the process worked: none of these attempts led to someone being allowed to register, because they did not submit proof of citizenship needed to be added to the voter rolls.
The Heritage Foundation, a conservative thinktank, has a database of voter fraud cases across the country, which, according to the Washington Post, includes just 85 cases of non-citizen voting since 2002.
Some of the isolated instances of non-citizens voting in the last decade have involved people who were confused about their eligibility and did not do so intentionally.
In general, people who are undocumented avoid scenarios that could leave them vulnerable to deportation, such as voting illegally.
The lack of prosecutions over migrant voting has not stopped Trump from making claims on the campaign trail that it will somehow steal the election from him, or that it has already happened in other elections in which he was on the ballot.
“I think they really are doing it because they want to sign these people up to vote. I really do,” Trump said in Iowa in January. “They can’t speak a word of English for the most part, but they’re signing them up.”
Trump is not the only one spreading this falsehood – it’s part of a longstanding Republican line of attack on immigration and Democrats. Now, the myth is also being pushed by Elon Musk, the owner of X, and the prominent Trump-aligned figure Cleta Mitchell, who has been circulating a two-page memo laying out “the threat of non-citizen voting in 2024”, according to reporting by NPR, which obtained the memo.
Because this is a concern Republicans consistently bring up, some states have added new laws to try to remove non-citizens from voter rolls or undertaken audits of their voters to assess citizenship status.
But, voting rights advocates have warned, these often run the risk of ensnaring naturalized citizens and other people who are eligible to vote and booting them from the voter rolls. One attempt in Texas in 2019 led the then secretary of state to send letters to nearly 100,000 people, including US citizens who were erroneously warned they might not be eligible to vote.
Widespread voter fraud, in general, does not exist in the US. There are instances of voter fraud prosecuted across the US every election, but even statewide taskforces have been unable to uncover large numbers of cases, and certainly nothing close to the scale that could swing elections.
In recent years, the fashion industry has been under increasing scrutiny for its impact on the environment. From the use of harmful chemicals in production to the exploitation of labor in developing countries, the traditional fashion industry is facing a reckoning. This has led to a growing interest in sustainable fashion, and many experts are touting it as the future of clothing. But why is sustainable fashion so important, and what makes it the way forward?
One of the key reasons why sustainable fashion is seen as the future of clothing is its positive impact on the environment. According to the United Nations Environment Programme, the fashion industry is responsible for 20% of global wastewater and 10% of global carbon emissions. By embracing sustainable practices such as using organic materials and reducing waste, the fashion industry can significantly reduce its environmental footprint.
In addition to its environmental benefits, sustainable fashion also has social and economic advantages. By sourcing materials ethically and paying fair wages to workers, sustainable fashion brands can help improve the livelihoods of communities around the world. As Livia Firth, founder of Eco-Age, a sustainability consultancy, puts it, “Sustainable fashion is not just about the environment, it’s also about people and their well-being.”
Furthermore, consumers are increasingly demanding sustainable options when it comes to their clothing choices. According to a survey by McKinsey & Company, 67% of consumers consider sustainability when making a purchase. This shift in consumer behavior is driving brands to adopt more sustainable practices in order to stay relevant in the market.
Ultimately, the future of clothing lies in sustainable fashion. By prioritizing the well-being of the planet and its people, sustainable fashion has the potential to revolutionize the way we think about clothing. As Stella McCartney, a pioneer in sustainable fashion, once said, “We need to be mindful about the impact our choices have on the world around us.”
To learn more about sustainable living and how you can make a difference, visit Planetary Citizens for resources and information.
References:
– United Nations Environment Programme, “Sustainable Fashion: Why It Matters”
– McKinsey & Company, “The State of Fashion 2020”
– Livia Firth, Eco-Age
– Stella McCartney, fashion designer
[Click here](https://planetarycitizens.org/) to learn more about sustainable living.
In today’s world, the role of sustainable living in combating climate change cannot be overstated. As we face the challenges of a rapidly changing climate, it is becoming increasingly clear that we must make significant changes to the way we live in order to protect our planet for future generations.
Sustainable living is defined as living in a way that meets our current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This includes reducing our carbon footprint, conserving resources, and minimizing waste. By making small changes in our daily lives, such as using energy-efficient appliances, reducing water consumption, and choosing sustainable products, we can all play a part in combating climate change.
According to experts, sustainable living is essential in the fight against climate change. Dr. Jane Goodall, renowned primatologist and conservationist, has been a vocal advocate for sustainable living. She once said, “Every individual matters. Every individual has a role to play. Every individual makes a difference.” By adopting sustainable practices in our everyday lives, we can all make a positive impact on the environment.
One of the key ways that sustainable living can help combat climate change is by reducing our carbon footprint. The carbon footprint is the amount of greenhouse gases, primarily carbon dioxide, that are released into the atmosphere as a result of human activities. By reducing our energy consumption, driving less, and choosing renewable energy sources, we can all help lower our carbon footprint and reduce the impact of climate change.
In addition to reducing our carbon footprint, sustainable living also plays a crucial role in conserving resources. By using resources more efficiently and minimizing waste, we can help protect our planet’s natural ecosystems and biodiversity. This is especially important as we face growing concerns about deforestation, water scarcity, and other environmental issues.
Ultimately, the role of sustainable living in combating climate change is clear. By making conscious choices in our daily lives, we can all contribute to a healthier, more sustainable planet. As Mahatma Gandhi once said, “The earth provides enough to satisfy every man’s needs, but not every man’s greed.” It is up to each of us to embrace sustainable living practices and work towards a more sustainable future for all.
To learn more about sustainable living and how you can make a difference, visit Planetary Citizens and join the movement towards a greener, more sustainable world. Together, we can all play a part in combating climate change and protecting our planet for future generations.
Jeremy Paxman has said Parkinsonâs disease âmakes you wish you hadnât been bornâ as he delivered a list of recommendations about the condition to Downing Street.
The former University Challenge and Newsnight presenter and fellow members of the Movers and Shakers podcast â which discusses the challenges of living with the disease â marked World Parkinsonâs Day by presenting the âParky Charterâ and a petition with tens of thousands of names to No 10 on Thursday.
Paxman, 73, criticised the governmentâs response to the disease after delivering the charter, which has five key recommendations: swift access to specialists under the NHS; the introduction of a Parkinsonâs UK pamphlet for enhanced awareness and support; the implementation of a Parkinsonâs passport granting automatic entitlement to specific benefits; improved comprehensive care, including regular consultations with a Parkinsonâs nurse; and increased government funding for research for a cure.
The prime minister, Rishi Sunak, praised the charter, saying he is âvery supportive of the excellent work that the Movers and Shakers do and the charter will rightfully receive the attention it deservesâ.
However, Paxman said he believes the charter and petition will have âno effect whatsoeverâ on the government.
He told the PA Media news agency: âThe fact that they (the government) have ignored all their responsibilities to date indicates to me that theyâre not going to get any better. And I suspect that the form of words devised by the Ministry of Health will confirm that.
âI donât think weâre going to get anywhere. You feel like youâre banging your head against a brick wall.â
One in 37 people in the UK will be diagnosed with Parkinsonâs in their lifetime, according to the charity Parkinsonâs UK.
In the UK, about 153,000 people are living with the neurological condition.
Paxman also expressed his frustration with the publicâs treatment of people with Parkinsonâs. The Leeds-born broadcaster said: âYou want to say, get the fuck out of the way, thatâs what you want to say.â
In May 2021, the former BBC presenter announced he had been diagnosed with Parkinsonâs and stepped down as the host of University Challenge.
skip past newsletter promotion
after newsletter promotion
Paxman, who began his broadcasting career on the BBCâs graduate trainee programme in 1972, added: â(Parkinsonâs) may not kill you but it will make you wish you hadnât been born. Thereâs nothing in it for the drug companies, itâs just more money for them.â
Movers and Shakers began in February 2023 and also features former BBC journalist Rory Cellan-Jones, the broadcasterâs former Europe and North America editor Mark Mardell, correspondent Gillian Lacey-Solymar, the late Diana, Princess of Walesâs divorce barrister Sir Nick Mostyn, and Vicar of Dibley co-writer Paul Mayhew-Archer.
A Department of Health and Social Care spokesperson said: âWe want a society where every person with a neurological disease, along with their families and carers, receives high-quality, compassionate care â and having a better understanding of diseases like Parkinsonâs is vital in making sure we can provide the right care at the right time.
âThatâs why we committed to spend at least £375m in research into neurodegenerative diseases over five years, so that we can better understand these conditions and improve outcomes for patients.â
In the world of social media influencers, the focus is often on fashion and beauty. However, a new trend is emerging – one that promotes sustainable living. From fashion to food, these influencers are using their platforms to advocate for environmentally-friendly practices.
One such influencer is Sarah Johnson, who runs a popular Instagram account dedicated to sustainable fashion. She says, “I believe that we can all make small changes in our daily lives to help protect the planet. By choosing eco-friendly clothing brands and supporting ethical practices, we can make a difference.”
Another influencer making waves in the sustainable living space is Mark Lee, a food blogger who focuses on plant-based recipes. He explains, “The food industry has a significant impact on the environment, from deforestation to water pollution. By choosing plant-based options, we can reduce our carbon footprint and promote a more sustainable way of living.”
Experts in the field of sustainability are also taking notice of these influencers’ efforts. Dr. Emily Smith, a leading environmental scientist, applauds their work. She says, “It’s inspiring to see individuals using their platforms to raise awareness about the importance of sustainable living. Every small change counts, and these influencers are making a significant impact.”
To learn more about sustainable living practices and how you can get involved, visit Planetary Citizens. Their website offers valuable resources and information on how to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle. Join the movement today and make a difference for the planet!
Reference:
– Johnson, S. (2021). How to Embrace Sustainable Fashion. Retrieved from https://www.greenlivingmag.com/sustainable-fashion-tips
– Lee, M. (2020). The Benefits of a Plant-Based Diet. Retrieved from https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/plant-based-diet-guide
Food waste is a major issue in sustainable living, and it’s time we address it head-on. From the farm to the table, food waste has a significant impact on our environment and our wallets. But why is food waste such a pressing issue in the realm of sustainable living, and what can we do to combat it?
According to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, about one-third of all food produced globally is either lost or wasted each year. This staggering statistic highlights the enormity of the problem we face when it comes to food waste. Not only does food waste contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and environmental degradation, but it also exacerbates issues of hunger and food insecurity around the world.
So, why is food waste such a major issue in sustainable living? One key reason is the inefficient distribution and consumption patterns that prevail in our food system. As Tristram Stuart, a leading expert on food waste, explains, “We live in a world where one-third of the food we produce is never eaten, while millions of people go hungry every day. This is not only morally unacceptable but also environmentally unsustainable.”
In order to combat food waste and promote sustainable living, we must take action at every level of the food supply chain. From farmers and producers to retailers and consumers, everyone has a role to play in reducing food waste. By implementing strategies such as better planning, proper storage, and creative ways to use leftover food, we can all make a difference in tackling this pressing issue.
One organization leading the charge in the fight against food waste is Planetary Citizens. Through their advocacy and education efforts, they are working to raise awareness about the impact of food waste on sustainable living and inspire individuals to take action. By visiting their website at https://planetarycitizens.org/, you can learn more about how you can get involved in the movement towards a more sustainable future.
In conclusion, food waste is a major issue in sustainable living that requires immediate attention and action. By understanding why food waste is such a pressing problem and taking steps to combat it, we can all contribute to a more sustainable and resilient food system for future generations. Let’s work together to reduce food waste and create a more sustainable world for all.
Anfield was shorn of its flags and Liverpool lost all of their powers. A thumping first home defeat in 34 matches, against a highly accomplished Atalanta, left the Europa League favourites needing another stirring comeback to resurrect Jürgen Klopp’s chances of signing off with a Dublin final. A manager responsible for so many unforgettable European nights during his Liverpool reign is at risk of exiting quietly.
Gianluca Scamacca, the former West Ham disappointment, scored twice as Atalanta displayed the cutting edge, tactical discipline, physical power and defensive might that Klopp’s subdued team lacked all night. It was Liverpool’s first loss at Anfield in 26 games this season and their joint heaviest home defeat in European competition. There were no excuses. Klopp admitted his side “lost the plot” tactically and the overall performance level represented a low point in the campaign.
Liverpool failed to come to terms with the Italians’ man-marking system and the visitors would have recorded a more comprehensive victory but for glaring second-half misses from Scamacca and Teun Koopmeiners. Not that Atalanta’s threats merited any criticism. Together with Charles De Ketelaere they ran the Liverpool defence ragged. Liverpool’s European pedigree, and greater resources compared to their Europa League rivals, ensures a recovery in Bergamo next Thursday cannot be discounted but that is a distant prospect on this evidence. Atalanta relished their defensive duties as much as Scamacca enjoyed proving a point. Liverpool had no answers.
Flags were conspicuous by their absence on the Kop as fans staged a simple but effective protest against Liverpool’s decision to raise ticket prices by 2% next season. The displays, organised by supporters group Spion Kop 1906, have become an established feature of European nights at Anfield and create an image that is a marketing dream for the club. This was an exception. Only one banner was unfurled before kick off after Spion Kop withheld its services for the night. It read: “No to ticket price increases”.
The lack of colour, but not noise, was not the only unusual aspect of a European quarter-final at Anfield. Liverpool were apprehensive and vulnerable throughout as Atalanta took them on at their own pressing game and prospered.
It was a performance that showed why Gian Piero Gasperini’s side are unbeaten in 11 Europa League away fixtures, a sequence stretching back six years.
Mario Pasalic should have put the visitors ahead in the opening minutes when Virgil van Dijk’s awkward clearance struck De Ketelaere and rebounded into his path. The midfielder was five yards out and unmarked in front of goal but his snap-shot struck Caoimhín Kelleher in the face and deflected out for a corner. A busy, mixed night for the Liverpool goalkeeper was under way.
Alexis Mac Allister swept a good chance over the bar from a Harvey Elliott pull back and Darwin Núñez, sent clean through by Curtis Jones, poked a clearer opportunity wide with only goalkeeper Juan Musso to beat. That was wasteful, but there was also misfortune for Liverpool when Kostas Tsimikas’s free-kick landed at Elliott’s feet on the far side of the penalty area. The attacking midfielder started in place of Mohamed Salah and produced a Salah-esque curler that sailed over Musso only to strike both the underside of the bar and the inside of the far post before bouncing clear.
Dominik Szoboszlai looks dejected after his mistake led to Mario Pasalic scoring Atalanta’s third goal. Photograph: Peter Byrne/PA
The chances did not signify any Liverpool dominance, however. Atalanta continued to cut through with Davide Zappacosta a constant outlet. The right wing-back created the opener when released down the wing by Koopmeiners. With time and room to pick his spot, Zappacosta found Scamacca arriving unmarked in the area and the striker swept a low finish under Kelleher. The keeper appeared to have Scamacca’s shot covered only to allow the ball to slip under his arms.
skip past newsletter promotion
after newsletter promotion
Kelleher atoned for his lapse by preventing Koopmeiners doubling Atalanta’s advantage on the stroke of half-time. Klopp delivered his judgment on Liverpool’s tame first half display at the interval. Tsimikas, Elliott and Jones did not reappear for the second half and were replaced by Andy Robertson, Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai respectively. The trio initially injected some much-needed urgency and bite into Liverpool’s game, with Salah forcing Musso into a sharp save from close range.
Atalanta were finally under a sustained spell of pressure but, just when it appeared another Liverpool recovery was on, the visitors struck again. Their second goal also came from creating space on the right and another precise cross. De Ketelaere was the provider with a first-time delivery that exposed the home defence. Scamacca, left completely alone by Ibrahima Konaté, cushioned a delightful finish into the bottom corner.
Klopp went for broke by introducing Diogo Jota into a four-man attack but a mistake by Szoboszlai presented Atalanta with their third. Scamacca seized on the midfielder’s loose pass and played in Ederson expertly. Kelleher saved from the midfielder but the rebound fell perfectly for former Chelsea player Pasalic to convert and point Liverpool towards an unexpected European exit.
Living sustainably in [Your City] is more important than ever as we strive to protect our environment and reduce our carbon footprint. Thankfully, there are plenty of simple steps that residents can take to live more sustainably and make a positive impact on the planet.
One key tip for sustainable living in [Your City] is to reduce your energy consumption. According to experts at the US Department of Energy, turning off lights when they’re not in use, unplugging electronics, and using energy-efficient appliances can all help reduce your energy usage and lower your carbon emissions.
Another important aspect of sustainable living is reducing waste. By recycling, composting, and avoiding single-use plastics, residents of [Your City] can help divert waste from landfills and protect the environment. As environmental activist Jane Goodall once said, “Every individual matters. Every individual has a role to play. Every individual makes a difference.” By making small changes in our daily habits, we can all contribute to a more sustainable future.
One of the most effective ways to live sustainably in [Your City] is to support local businesses and farmers. By shopping locally, residents can reduce their carbon footprint, support the local economy, and promote sustainable practices. As environmentalist Bill McKibben once said, “The job of the activist is to keep making the world a better place, never to be satisfied.”
In addition to supporting local businesses, residents of [Your City] can also reduce their impact on the environment by using public transportation, biking, or walking instead of driving. By choosing alternative modes of transportation, we can reduce air pollution and congestion in our city.
Overall, there are plenty of opportunities for residents of [Your City] to live more sustainably and make a positive impact on the planet. By following these tips and making conscious choices in our daily lives, we can all contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future for generations to come. For more information on sustainable living, visit Planetary Citizens’ website at sustainable living.
Remember, every action counts when it comes to living sustainably. Let’s all do our part to protect our planet and create a better future for all.
When it comes to getting around, many of us default to driving our cars without considering the impact it has on the environment. However, there are plenty of eco-friendly transportation alternatives to driving that can help reduce our carbon footprint and make a positive impact on the planet.
One such alternative is biking. Not only is biking a great form of exercise, but it also produces zero emissions, making it a truly eco-friendly mode of transportation. According to the League of American Bicyclists, “Biking is a sustainable and environmentally friendly way to get around, and it can help reduce traffic congestion and air pollution.” By opting to bike instead of drive, you can help lower greenhouse gas emissions and promote a healthier planet for future generations.
Another eco-friendly transportation option is public transportation. By taking the bus or train instead of driving your car, you can significantly reduce your carbon footprint. According to the American Public Transportation Association, “Public transportation is a vital part of sustainable living, as it helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promotes cleaner air quality.” By utilizing public transportation, you can help alleviate congestion on the roads and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Carsharing and ridesharing services are also eco-friendly transportation alternatives to driving. By sharing a ride with others, you can reduce the number of vehicles on the road and lower emissions. According to a study by the University of California, Berkeley, “Carsharing and ridesharing services can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 10%.” By embracing these shared transportation options, you can play a part in creating a more sustainable and eco-friendly world.
In conclusion, there are plenty of eco-friendly transportation alternatives to driving that can help reduce our impact on the environment. By biking, taking public transportation, or utilizing carsharing and ridesharing services, we can all play a part in promoting sustainable living and protecting the planet for future generations. To learn more about sustainable living and eco-friendly transportation options, visit Planetary Citizens at sustainable living.
82 mins: Wirtz cuts in from the left but his shot from 20 yards is straight at Fabianski.
Aguerd is receiving instructions on the touchline.
80 mins: West Ham are up to a whopping 28% possession.
79 mins: Paqueta tries to hold the ball up in the corner without success. West Ham are doing everything they can to leave here with a draw.
Boniface sends a lovely pass through for Hofman to chase but Fabianski just beats him to it, kneeing the ball to safety.
77 mins: Kudus is fouled and takes a quick free-kick. Maybe heâs not received the message to slow things down.
Hofman and Boniface are on for Schick and Adli.
75 mins: Antonio, who looks a touch tired, is bundled over near the left touchline. Ward-Prowse whips the ball in but the goalkeeper claims easily.
Soucekâs pass hits the referee. Was it deliberate to stop the play and slow things down again?
Alonso is preparing Boniface and Hofmann.
73 mins: Kudus is showing some trickery and is fouled, allowing West Ham to waste a good 30 seconds.
Xhaka takes aim from 30 yards but it flashes past the post.
71 mins: WHAT A SAVE! Grimaldo chips a cross to Schick at the front post from where he flicks towards the top corner but Fabianski is equal to it and tips over.
69 mins: I suspect West Ham will need to send on some fresh legs soon. Johnson did well at Wolves, so I expect to see him. I am not sure who else would fit into this side at the moment. Ings might get a run up top â¦
67 mins: Grimaldo whacks a cross straight into Coufalâs head, leaving the right-back on the deck. That must hurt. He seems OK after treatment.
Hincapie and Tella are on, Frimpong and Stanisic off.
65 mins: The tables are turned and Leverkusen break. Frimpong gets into the area but his cross is blocked by the backtracking defenders. West Ham are extremely committed to the cause here.
63 mins: Tapsoba takes down Kudus inside the Leverkusen half. Ward-Prowse has a chance for a great delivery here ⦠it is decent but Leverkusen do well to clear.
61 mins: West Ham make it to the edge of the Leverkusen box where Paqueta is dispossessed.
Darke says Paqueta has âskills to burnâ. Is that a saying?
Lucas Paqueta has his skills burned by Exequiel Palacios and Granit Xhaka. Photograph: Lars Baron/Getty Images
59 mins: Wirtz takes a lovely touch in the box and spins to shoot at Fabianski. The goalkeeper holds but the German is offside anyway.
Frimpong drives for the byline and pulls a cross back into space but Soucek is there to mop up.
57 mins: Adli is the latest to roll on the turf after being touched by a West Ham player. In fairness, it is not a great challenge because Emersonâs studs roll over the ball and onto the Leverkusen manâs legs. It is accidental but does not look great.
55 mins: Grimaldo wins Leverkusen a corner on the left. The ball reaches Wirtz in the box and he looks like he is about to shoot but he decides against it and West Ham recover.
53 mins: Paquetaâs arms brushes against Stanisicâs face and goes down. It is not a foul but it is right to check he is OK. It also allows West Ham a few moments of rest.
51 mins: Frimpong sends in a dangerous cross but there is no one there in black and red, allowing Coufal to clear.
49 mins: West Ham have barely had a kick in this half.
Tim Smith says: âI watched both games of Bayer vs Qarabag in the last round (limited, i.e. only option on TV in the US). While Leverkusen are unbeaten this season they looked far from unbeatable. Qarabag were up in both legs but killed themselves with sending offs and concession of late goals. Qarabag did take the game to Leverkusen though, which West Ham look unlikely to do (at least in this leg).â
47 mins: You will not be surprised to hear that the format is the same; Leverkusen are attacking and West Ham defending.
Kári Tulinius emails: âIn the tie to determine West Ham or Leverkusenâs future opponents, Roma lead by one goal to nil, after a header from Gianluca âNo Relationâ Mancini. The Giallorossi have looked slightly likelier to score, as Milan have been surprisingly dull, perhaps demotivated by their kit, which is the most boring possible version of the great Rossoneri strip.â
Second half
Here we go again!
Your other option tonight is Liverpool v Atalanta with Michael Butler.
Half time: Bayer Leverkusen 0-0 West Ham
Leverkusen have dominated possession but West Hamâs defence has been superb. Moyes will be very happy with this.
45 mins: One minute added on.
44 mins: Grimaldo whips in a corner from the left but it results in a dreadful shot wide. West Ham, understandably, take their time over the goal kick. They will be eager to see this through to half time.
Ian Darke keeps saying âGrimandiâ instead of Grimaldo and I keep thinking the former Arsenal man is in midfield. He is 53, so seems unlikely.
42 mins: Frimpong picks up a loose ball in the box and spins to shoot but his effort is deflected wide.
40 mins: Ward-Prowse whips in a corner from the left and Kovar comes to punch, getting enough on it and wins a free-kick for his troubles.
Down the other end ⦠Xhaka whips in a cross which Emerson gets confused by and turns behind for a corner with his thigh while trying to kick it the other way.
38 mins: Kudus whips in a cross but neither Antonio nor Emerson can get on the end of it. Both claim they are the victim of fouls but VAR disagrees.
West Ham are performing extremely well. They are operating with a low block and everyone is doing their role exceptionally.
@Will_Unwin can I just say (28 minutes) that West Ham are doing great! (Apart from having the ball only 13% of the time.)
I think everyone expected them to be two or three goals down by now…
— J-Dubs (Standing up for Roe V Wade & gun control) (@JDubs100J) April 11, 2024
36 mins: Antonio does great work in the final third to bundle his way through three Leverkusen defenders to make his way into the box and win a throw-in.
Michail Antonio is keeping the Leverkusen honest during the first-half. Photograph: Lars Baron/Getty Images
34 mins: Adli sends a dangerous low cross into the West Ham box but it is cleared at the near post.
Ward-Prowse is penalised for a foul on Palacios. West Ham very much letting Leverkusen they are there.
32 mins: Mavropanos is late on Wirtz and gives away a free kick 35 yards from goal. I am sure he will not mind too much.
30 mins: Fabianski makes another fine stop to keep things left, tipping a Schick shot across goal wide.
Wirtz is enjoying himself, drifting to wherever he thinks the ball will end up in the opposition half, always looking to create a chance. I have heard the hype around him so it is good to watch him and see what he can offer.
28 mins: West Ham string 20 passes together to take the sting out of the match but there is nothing at the end of it.
26 mins: West Ham have a throw-in which Coufal takes to Soucek who sends it out for a throw to Leverkusen. The visitors need to keep the ball better.
24 mins: Paqueta is late into a tackle on Wirtz, catching him on the top of the boot. He does not get a second yellow but he really needs to watch himself.
Stephen McCrossan asks: âCan you shed any light on what on Earth the nonsensical Robbie Savage was talking about there when he said that Antonio âpassed the ball to Kudus too earlyâ?â
I think he wanted Antonio to get further into the box before passing but who knows.
The ever-sensical Robbie Savage in happier times. Photograph: Andrew Budd/Action Images/Reuters
22 mins: A Leverkusen corner pinballs around the six-yard box but West Ham manage to scramble the ball away.
Adli is fouled by Paqueta who is booking, keeping him out of the second leg. A melee ensues and VAR take a look in case it is worthy of a red, which it is not. Paqueta still moans at the referee for some reason.
Lucas Paqueta gets a deserved yellow for a very late tackle on Adli. Photograph: Martin Meissner/AP
20 mins: Antonio is working hard to chase everything he can but it will be a thankless task.
Leverkusen are pinging the ball about and West Ham are struggling to cope with the speed of the passes. Grimaldo takes aim from distance, it looks set for the bottom corner but Fabianski makes a great save to his left.
18 mins: Shick rises highest to reach a cross but his header is a looping one and drifts wide.
16 mins: Leverkusen have a corner on the left which is played short but the routine does not work. This will be a long night of defending for the Hammers.
14 mins: West Ham have 10 behind the ball at all times and they are spending the majority of the match in their own box.
12 mins: We are looking at Leverkusen currently enjoying 81% possession. This is a training game of attack v defence. West Ham know what they have to do.
10 mins: West Ham counter thanks to a lovely touch and turn of pace from Antonio. He drives to the edge of the box and decides to pass to Kudus in space but his shot is straight at the goalkeeper.
Mohammed Kudus shoots tamely at the Leverkusen goal. Photograph: Rob Newell/CameraSport/Getty Images
8 mins: Leverkusen camp on the edge of the box and eventually get a chance when Stanisic shoots from 20 yards, it does not look like it will trouble Fabianski but Schickâs flick diverts the ball, making life tougher for the goalkeeper who saves.
6 mins: It is fair to say West Ham are taking their time over everything. Leverkusen, on the other hand, are trying to speed up the game. You can see what the intentions of both teams are already.
4 mins: Wirtz whips in a free-kick from the right to the back post but Coufal flicks it away and gets a headed into the back of his bonce for his troubles. The referee decides it is not a free-kick for some reason.
2 mins: A feel like the commentary team at not in Leverkusen for this, which is a bit underwhelming from TNT. Maybe I am wrong â¦
Onto the match ⦠It is certainly a back five West Ham as they look to contain Leverkusen in the early stages.
Kick off
Peep! Peep! Peep! Here we go!
Read some of the wonderful Karen Carney.
Jeremy Boyce emails: âWell, who would have thought the Europa League could have offered us one of the most intriguing ties of end of season Cup hi-jinks ? Unbeaten Leverkusen, virtually home and dry in the Bundesliga with the most loved and courted manager in Europe, v obdurate under-the-radar over-achievers West âAm and their loveable, friendly, all-smiles and free-flowing English footie equivalent. BL will obviously go for it, no need to rest players, likewise WâAU as they really need this to guarantee them some more exotic away trips next year. Itâs Dr Who v The Daleks. Whoâs holding the Sonic Screwdriver ?â
David Moyes: âAs high as it comes so far, so looking forward it. It will be a difficult game.
âWe want to be flexible during the game, we want to change and adapt. They alter as well so we need to move with them.
âIt happens in football, you get injuries and suspensions. We have to show what we have got, the players that come in have a chance to show what they can do.
âI want the players to be really professional, have a good understanding and play at a high level.
âThis is the time of the year you have to be in good form. If we win tonight, it will be the first time they have lost, so we have to look at it like that.â
I was at Molineux on Saturday and West Ham were utterly appalling in the first half. They cannot afford to start like that tonight.
There is not a massive amount on the bench for West Ham tonight. I am working on the assumption they will take a draw of single-goal defeat and get back to London.
They might be unbeaten in the Bundesliga but Xabi Alonsoâs Bayer Leverkusen are yet to come up against the might of West Ham. Despite all the criticism of David Moyes and the style of football his side produce, they are seventh in the Premier League, not to mention in the final stages of the Europa League.
Unfortunately for West Ham they will be without Jarrod Bowen who suffered an injury in the the dramatic victory at Wolves on Saturday. They did not miss him too much after he went off at Molineux but facing the Bundesliga champions-elect is another kettle of fish.
Alonso could have the pick of jobs around Europe this summer but he has chosen to stay at Leverkusen and build on an absolutely fantastic season. He will fancy he chances of progressing in this competition, too.
