November 2024: Top Stories and Highlights

Kevin Schade's hat-trick on November 30 grabbed headlines — Brentford thrashed Leicester 4-1 and left no doubt who stole the show. That single performance set the tone for a month packed with big sports nights, a record-setting T20, music buzz, and major off-field developments that mattered across Africa and beyond.

Sports highlights

Football dominated parts of the month. Brentford's 4-1 win over Leicester featured Schade's historic hat-trick and Yoane Wissa's strike, showing how quickly momentum can swing in the Premier League. Arsenal looked strong going into their clash with West Ham, with Martin Odegaard's return shaping predictions and lifting team morale. Liverpool prepared for a high-stakes Champions League meeting with Real Madrid at Anfield, where form and home advantage were key talking points.

Real Madrid faced a different challenge: defensive injuries pushed the club to consider January targets like Aymeric Laporte while closing the door on a Sergio Ramos return. Those roster headaches changed tactical conversations and added pressure ahead of crucial fixtures.

On the cricket pitch, India produced one of the month’s standout moments in Johannesburg. Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma compiled a massive, unbeaten partnership that helped India post 283/1 in a T20I — one of the highest T20 totals overseas — and then follow up with a 134-run win to seal the series 3-1. The South Africa vs India series stayed tense, with both teams trading moments in a packed schedule at St George's Park.

Luton Town also grabbed attention with a gritty 1-1 draw against West Brom in the Championship, a result that mattered for the relegation scrap and showed how single points can change club outlooks quickly.

Politics, culture and off-field stories

Beyond sport, the month brought high-impact news. Danny Jordaan, a major figure in South African football, was arrested over alleged fraud and theft tied to association funds — a developing story with big implications for SAFA governance. In global politics, reports suggested President Joe Biden planned to call Donald Trump to offer congratulations after the 2024 election outcome, a step that would follow long-standing transition traditions.

On culture, Wizkid dropped a new single, Kese (Dance), teasing his upcoming album Morayo and reminding fans why he stays central to the Afrobeats conversation. Lighter human-interest pieces also appeared: Dylan Dreyer shared a creative Halloween lunch idea for her son, which readers enjoyed for its homey charm amid heavier news.

Want to read more? Scroll through the November archive to open each full story. This page collects the month’s must-read articles — quick recaps here, full reporting in each post. Bookmark the archive to track follow-ups and new developments as they break.

By Lesego Lehari, 1 Dec, 2024 / Sports

Kevin Schade's Historic Hat-Trick Propels Brentford's Triumphant 4-1 Win Over Leicester City

Brentford showcased a spectacular display of football talent as they overwhelmed Leicester City with a 4-1 victory on November 30, 2024. The highlight of the game was undoubtedly Kevin Schade's tremendous hat-trick, leading the charge for his team's victory. Alongside his efforts, Yoane Wissa found the net, while Emiliano Buonanotte scored Leicester's only goal. Brentford dominated the match at their home ground, boasting superior possession and attack statistics.

By Lesego Lehari, 30 Nov, 2024 / Sports

Arsenal vs West Ham: Expert Insights on Players, Goals, and Strategic Predictions

Arsenal are expected to come out on top in their imminent showdown against West Ham, riding on their recent form and strategic play, largely powered by key player Martin Odegaard. West Ham's performances against top teams have been underwhelming, while Arsenal's victories, following Odegaard's return, have uplifted the team's morale and winning chances. The Gunners, buoyed by their captain, aim to execute a convincing win.

By Lesego Lehari, 26 Nov, 2024 / Sports

Liverpool vs Real Madrid: Comprehensive Guide to the Champions League Clash

Liverpool is set to host Real Madrid at Anfield for a pivotal UEFA Champions League encounter on November 27, 2024. Liverpool has displayed dominant form, leading both the Premier League and the Champions League group with a perfect record. Meanwhile, Real Madrid has been inconsistent in their European campaign. The passionate rivalry sets the stage for an exciting game, with TV and radio coverage ensuring fans don't miss a moment.

By Lesego Lehari, 17 Nov, 2024 / Sports

Historic T20I Triumph in Johannesburg: Samson and Varma's Remarkable Feat Solidifies India's Cricketing Glories

In a landmark T20I clash in Johannesburg, India triumphed with a commanding 134-run victory over South Africa, winning the series 3-1. Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma's record-breaking innings set new benchmarks as India posted a monumental 283/1. Their undefeated partnership, along with Abhishek Sharma's fiery start, led to a remarkable cricketing display, marking India's highest T20I score overseas.

By Lesego Lehari, 16 Nov, 2024 / Entertainment

Wizkid Ignites Buzz with New Afrobeats Single 'Kese (Dance)' Ahead of Album 'Morayo'

Nigerian music sensation Wizkid stirs excitement with his latest single 'Kese (Dance)', a tantalizing prelude to his eagerly awaited album 'Morayo', slated to drop on November 22, 2024. The track, produced by the talented P2J, showcases a dynamic blend of English, Pidgin, and Yoruba intertwined with the infectious beats typical of Nigerian pop. Having followed the triumph of 'Piece of My Heart', 'Kese (Dance)' is poised to amplify Wizkid's feature in the Afrobeats scene.

By Lesego Lehari, 14 Nov, 2024 / Sports

Danny Jordaan's Arrest Shakes South African Soccer Amid Fraud Allegations

Danny Jordaan, a prominent figure in South African soccer and president of the South African Football Association, has been arrested on charges of fraud and theft. Accused of misusing R1.3 million of association funds, his arrest is part of a broader investigation into alleged corruption within SAFA. Jordaan's involvement adds a significant twist to this growing scandal, considering his past contributions to the sport. The arrest follows a comprehensive investigation that includes a raid by the Special Investigating Unit.

By Lesego Lehari, 11 Nov, 2024 / Sports

South Africa vs India T20 Clash: Rivals Lock Horns in Thrilling Encounter

In an intense showdown at St George's Park, South Africa and India clashed in the second T20 International. South Africa opted to bowl after winning the toss, in a crucial match of their four-game series. Italy's victory in the first game has set the stakes high for both teams who are keen to advance their T20I rankings. Fans witnessed a riveting match filled with strategic plays and remarkable performances from star players.

By Lesego Lehari, 11 Nov, 2024 / Sports

Real Madrid's Strategic Defensive Moves Amidst Injury Challenges

Real Madrid is navigating an injury crisis with key defenders out, leading to speculation about possible roster changes. Despite a deepening defensive dilemma, the club has dismissed the prospect of re-signing Sergio Ramos, focusing instead on Aymeric Laporte for the upcoming January transfer window. This strategy unfolds as Madrid's core defense remains weakened, urging a shift in tactical player acquisitions.

By Lesego Lehari, 7 Nov, 2024 / Politics

Biden Set to Congratulate Trump Following 2024 Presidential Win, Sources Suggest

U.S. President Joe Biden is anticipated to make a phone call to Donald Trump, offering congratulations on his victory in the 2024 presidential election. This interaction follows Vice President Kamala Harris’s concession and represents a customary step in acknowledging the election's outcome. The call signifies continuity in the American tradition of peaceful power transitions and marks formal recognition of Trump's success in the election.

By Lesego Lehari, 3 Nov, 2024 / Sports

Luton Town's Resilient Effort Secures Dramatic Draw Against West Brom

Luton Town fought valiantly to achieve a 1-1 draw against West Bromwich Albion in a Championship clash. After West Brom seized the advantage with a goal from Josh Maja, Luton leveled the score thanks to Tahith Chong. Despite West Brom's efforts, the game ended in a draw, keeping Luton narrowly outside the relegation zone. West Brom manager Carlos Corberan emphasized the impact of errors on their performance.

By Lesego Lehari, 2 Nov, 2024 / Entertainment

Dylan Dreyer's Creative Halloween Lunch for Son Cal is a Hit

Dylan Dreyer, known for her role on the TODAY show, crafted an imaginative Halloween-themed lunch for her son Calvin, which included playful ideas like toy spiders on kiwi and ghostly eggs. After sharing it online, fans applauded her creativity, showcasing a heartfelt familial moment that resonated with many. This festive gesture highlights her excitement for seasonal celebrations, including Thanksgiving.