Also, Russia strikes Ukraine, Pelé dies and the week in culture.
Tag: Soccer
Pelé, the Global Face of Soccer, Dies at 82
Pelé, who was declared a national treasure in his native Brazil, achieved worldwide celebrity and helped popularize the sport in the United States.
Ali Daei’s Family Is Targeted After He Supports Iran Protests
The wife and daughter of the soccer star Ali Daei, one of the most prominent critics of Iran’s crackdown on protesters, were stopped from leaving Iran.
Soccer Star Says His Family Stopped From Leaving Iran for Supporting Protests
Ali Daei, a prominent former soccer player, said his wife and daughter were prevented from leaving Iran on Monday after their plane made an unannounced stopover en route to Dubai.
Behind Argentina’s World Cup Magic, an Army of Witches
France might have its star Kylian Mbappé, but Argentina has hundreds of “brujas” casting spells to protect Lionel Messi and the rest of its national squad.
World Cup Final Caps a Complex Saga Between Messi and Argentina
Lionel Messi left Argentina when he was 13 and has had a complicated relationship with the nation since. But this World Cup has changed things.
Leaders Mix Sports and Diplomacy at the World Cup
Dozens of top officials have flown to Qatar to cheer for teams while talking shop. The event has magnified the tiny Gulf nation’s role as a diplomatic broker.
Your Friday Briefing: The U.S. Will Train More Ukraine Troops
Plus: Chinese companies are hit by U.S. trade restrictions.
Argentina’s Most Sacred World Cup Watch Party: Maradona’s Former Home
A Buenos Aires businessman bought Diego Maradona’s old house and has been opening it up for Argentina’s World Cup matches, meat included.
Grant Wahl Died of a Burst Blood Vessel, His Family Says
An autopsy in New York showed that the journalist had a tear in the ascending aorta, a large vessel that carries blood from the heart.