Eurotopics.net

In Portugal, the introduction of a new digital marking system for school-leaving exams has caused chaos. Students received their results much later than usual and were unable to apply for university or had no time to prepare for retakes. Commentators speculate on the conservative government's role in the reform and what other factors may have exacerbated the problems.

The Fifa World Cup has come to an end with Spain’s victory over Argentina. Superstar Lionel Messi failed to secure a win for his team in the final – and Ferran Torres scored the decisive goal in extra time, giving the Spaniards a 1-0 lead. European commentators interpret the messages sent out by this World Cup beyond the sport results.

Volkswagen CEO Oliver Blume has announced that the company will axe up to 50,000 jobs – in addition to the 50,000 already agreed on. The aim is to slash the costs of Europe's largest car manufacturer to a 'competitive level'. Four German plants are reportedly at risk of closure. Commentators debate the implications beyond Germany and what steps to take next.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has suffered a defeat in parliament over a key point in her planned electoral reform. With 188 votes to 187, the Chamber of Deputies rejected a draft amendment proposed by her ruling party, Fratelli d'Italia. The amendment would have allowed voters to use preferential votes to rank individual candidates within a list.

Border controls between Spain and the British Overseas Territory of Gibraltar have been abolished. A post-Brexit agreement negotiated between London and Brussels that came into force on Wednesday also provides for the removal of the border fence erected in 1908. For commuters in particular, this means an end to hours of waiting at the border. Commentators take a closer look at the ramifications.