KaaGee Notes

With two games to play, the United States could be in peril of failing to qualify for the World Cup for the first time since 1986. But the U.S. is not the only Cup perennial that could miss out on Russia 2018. Several other prominent teams are also struggling and might be sitting it out next summer, depending on the results of the final games in October. Europe When the qualifying draw was made in 2015, it was clear that at least one giant would be in a difficult position about now. Italy, which has made 14 consecutive World Cups, and Spain, which has made 10 straight, were drawn into the same group, with only one automatic qualifying spot available. Spain drubbed Italy, 3-0, last weekend, and at 3 points up with two games to play, is very likely to get the spot. That puts Italy in the position of having to play a home-and-home playoff against another group runner-up to qualify. Italy will be favored to win its playoff, but the opponent could be tricky: A team like Slovakia, ...

Togo shuts down internet amid protests Internet access in Togo has been severely restricted as opposition supporters gather to protest against the rule of President Faure Gnassingbé. Some users say internet speeds are slow and access to social media platforms has been limited. Protesters have rejected a government proposal to bring about a two-term presidential limit, saying it is a ploy to extend the president's rule. They want Mr Gnassingbé, who has been in power since 2005, to step down. He became president after the death of his father, Gnassingbe Eyadema, who had been at the helm for 38 years. Government spokesperson Gilbert Bawara told a local radio station that there was an ongoing internet restriction: "Even in most developed countries, authorities take control of telecommunications in some cases," he said. AFP news agency reports that mobile internet had been shut down in the capital, Lomé, but added that wi-fi networks are still working. BBC Afri...