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The Crisis That Halted Palestinian FootballMahdi Hijazi, a 23‑year‑old former national‑team player, has not played a professional match in nearly three years since the war on Gaza forced the Palestine Professional League into suspension. He now spends his days on the sidelines of pitches near the Israeli police headquarters in Sheikh Jarrah, East Jerusalem, handing out refreshments to keep a connection to the sport.Suspension of the League and Immediate DisruptionsThe league has been dormant since the Hamas‑led attacks on 7 October 2023 and the ensuing conflict in Gaza. Travel restrictions, road closures, and settler attacks have made it impossible for teams from the West Bank and East Jerusalem to meet, effectively freezing all domestic competition.All professional matches halted since October 2023.Players unable to travel between West Bank and Jerusalem due to military checkpoints.Coaches like Khaled Abu Dalu see youth academies struggling to keep talent engaged.Financial Fallout: Salary Losses and Player Income DropsBefore the suspension, a typical professional player earned $2,000‑$3,000 per month, while national‑team members could make up to $7,000. With the league on hold, many have been forced into low‑paid jobs:Former teammates now work as barbers, mechanics, supermarket staff, or bakers.One ex‑player earns only 100–200 shekels ($34‑$68) a week.Another sees his income fall from $5,000 a month to $500.Broader Impact: Talent Drain, Women’s Game, and Community ConsequencesPlayers are seeking contracts abroad, with estimates of 70‑80 moving to Libya, about 10 to Egypt, and a handful to Jordan, Qatar, Kuwait, Malaysia and Indonesia. Women’s football shows a glimmer of hope after the under‑20 team won the WAFF Women’s Championship in April 2025, but club infrastructure for female players has largely vanished.Women’s national team achieved historic regional title.Local women’s clubs have disappeared, limiting development pathways.Youth academies risk losing a generation; players aged 18 now lack senior‑team opportunities.Outlook: Paths to Revival and the Risk of a Lost GenerationCoaches like Abdul Fatah Arar hope a scaled‑down league can restart after the summer break, but funding remains frozen and sponsors have withdrawn. If the league returns, salaries may be as low as 500 shekels ($171) per month, or possibly unpaid. The longer the hiatus, the greater the danger that an entire cohort of players will abandon the sport.Potential revival hinges on unfreezing Palestine Authority funds and securing local sponsorship.Youth academies in West Bank villages could seed future growth.Without timely action, the sport risks regressing “20 years” as described by insiders.

Spain’s Unshaken Confidence Ahead of World Cup 2026After lifting the Euro 2024 trophy, the Spanish side arrived in Berlin on 15 July 2024 with a palpable sense of belief. Captain Álvaro Morata and coach Luis de la Fuente insist the squad’s chemistry and mentality are identical to the one that conquered Europe, and they expect that continuity to translate into World Cup success.Key Moments from Euro 2024 that Shape the World Cup SquadThe Euro campaign highlighted several players who will anchor the 2026 roster:Rodri – Ballon d’Or winner, central to midfield stability.Pedri – Creative engine, now dubbed “Potter” by the coach.Lamine Yamal – Two‑year‑older prodigy, recovered from a recent injury.Nico Williams – Fitness concerns remain ahead of the tournament.Mikel Oyarzabal – Scored 13 goals in 11 matches, a proven big‑game performer.Only eight players, including Morata and Dani Carvajal, have departed, leaving a core that “feels the same as we were then,” according to Oyarzabal.Statistical Snapshot: 30‑Game Unbeaten Run and Player MetricsSpain entered the World Cup on an unbeaten 30‑game streak (including Euro 2024).Euro 2024 record: won every match, defeating Croatia, Italy, Germany, France and England.Goal contribution: Oyarzabal – 13 goals/11 games; Merino – 100% confidence rating in pre‑match poll.Goalkeeper rankings: David Raya and Joan García rated as season’s best keepers in England and Spain.What Spain’s Continuity Means for International FootballThe decision to retain the Euro‑winning core signals a broader trend of valuing squad cohesion over wholesale overhaul. Analysts note that Spain’s “calm, confident” culture could force rivals to rethink squad rotation strategies, especially as other nations grapple with integrating younger talent.Moreover, the public perception shift—from outsiders doubting Spain’s chances to the team embracing the “favourite” tag—highlights the psychological edge that sustained success can generate.Outlook: Spain’s Chances at the 2026 World CupWhile injuries to Williams and the loss of veteran leaders pose risks, the squad’s internal belief remains high. Coach de la Fuente emphasizes that the team’s “same excitement, same belief” will be the decisive factor.If the unbeaten mentality holds, Spain could realistically aim for at least a semi‑final appearance, with many pundits betting on a repeat of their Euro triumph on the world stage.

The Rout of Curaçao Germany thrashed Curaçao 7-1 in their World Cup 2026 match, with Kai Havertz scoring twice. The match was marked by Curaçao's spirited performance, particularly in the first half, but Germany's superior strength and depth eventually led to a convincing victory. Curaçao's Historic Equalizer Livano Comenencia's equalizer for Curaçao was a highlight of the match, showcasing the team's skill and determination. However, Germany's Julian Nagelsmann was pleased with his team's response, scoring six more goals after Comenencia's equalizer. The Data Analysis Germany scored 7 goals, with Kai Havertz netting twice. Curaçao's Livano Comenencia scored a memorable equalizer. The match was played at Houston's stadium, with Curaçao's 7,000-strong 'blue wave' of fans making their presence felt. The Impact Analysis The victory is a significant statement from Germany, demonstrating their strength and depth in the lead-up to the World Cup. For Curaçao, the match was a historic moment, with their team born almost entirely in the Netherlands putting up a spirited performance against a top-tier opponent. The Prediction Germany is expected to reach the knockouts of the World Cup, with Kai Havertz and his teammates looking to make a deep run in the tournament. Curaçao, meanwhile, will look to build on their experience and progress from a challenging Group E.

The LeadThe Group of Seven (G7) summit convenes amid growing questions about the alliance's relevance in today's rapidly changing global landscape. As emerging economies gain influence and global challenges evolve, the traditional forum of major industrialized nations faces scrutiny over its effectiveness and representation.The Shifting Global Power DynamicsFounded in 1975 as the G5, later expanding to include Canada and Russia (which was expelled in 2014), the G7 has long served as a platform for the world's leading economies to coordinate on economic and political issues. However, the rise of China, India, and other emerging economies has fundamentally altered the global power structure, challenging the G7's dominance in international affairs.Economic Impact of Changing AlliancesThe G7 economies collectively represent approximately 40% of global GDP, but this share has been declining as emerging markets grow. The alliance's ability to influence global economic policy has been questioned as institutions like the G20, which includes major emerging economies, gain prominence in addressing financial stability, trade, and development challenges.Geopolitical Relevance in a Multipolar WorldRecent global conflicts, climate crises, and technological competition have tested the G7's unity and effectiveness. While the alliance has maintained coordinated responses to challenges like Russia's invasion of Ukraine and has made commitments on climate action, critics argue that its decisions often lack implementation mechanisms and fail to adequately address the concerns of the Global South.The Future of Global GovernanceLooking ahead, the G7 faces critical decisions about its role in the evolving international order. The alliance must either adapt by incorporating emerging economies more substantively or risk becoming increasingly marginalized. Whether through institutional reform, more inclusive partnerships, or focusing on specific niche areas where it can maintain unique value, the G7's future relevance will depend on its ability to demonstrate tangible impact in addressing the world's most pressing challenges.

Eberechi Eze says a missed penalty in Arsenal’s Champions League final won’t stop him from stepping up for England in a World Cup shootout.Eze’s Determination After Arsenal’s Champions League Shootout MissThe attacking midfielder saw his kick drift wide as Arsenal fell to Paris Saint‑Germain on penalties in Budapest last month. Despite the disappointment, Eze insists the experience is “part of the journey” and affirms he will take any spot‑kick England awards him in a knockout tie.Statistical Snapshot of Eze’s Penalty Record and Recent HonorsMissed the decisive penalty against PSG in the Champions League final.Previously saved two softly struck penalties for Crystal Palace against Liverpool and Newcastle.Scored the winning goal in the 2025 FA Cup final versus Manchester City.Contributed to Arsenal's Premier League title after joining in summer 2025.Competes with Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers for England’s No 10 role.What Eze’s Resolve Means for England’s World Cup Penalty StrategySince Gareth Southgate took charge, England have refined their penalty approach, winning shootouts in 2018 (vs Colombia) and Euro 2024 (vs Switzerland). Eze’s confidence adds depth to a pool that already includes seasoned takers like Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford, offering Southgate tactical flexibility and a psychological boost.Looking Ahead: Eze’s Potential Role in England’s Group‑Stage MatchesEze is likely to start on the bench for England’s opening Group L clash with Croatia, but his versatility across the frontline makes him a viable substitute. If called upon, he says, “Why wouldn’t I take it?” – a mindset that could prove decisive in high‑pressure shootouts later in the tournament.

Opening Overview of the Texas ShowdownLive, minute‑by‑minute coverage begins for the Netherlands vs Japan group‑stage match at the 2026 World Cup in Texas, kicking off at 3 pm local (4 pm EDT, 9 pm BST).Match Preview: Netherlands vs JapanThe encounter pits two historically under‑achieving nations against each other. The Netherlands are the most successful team never to have lifted the trophy, having lost three finals, while Japan have never reached a World Cup quarter‑final.Recent Form and Head‑to‑Head StatsJapan have won 9 of their last 12 qualifiers, including first‑ever victories over Brazil and England.Netherlands reached the quarter‑finals in 2022, losing to eventual champions Argentina, and were runners‑up in Euro 2024.Both sides have faced strong opposition in recent tournaments, suggesting a tightly contested match.Group‑Stage Implications for Both TeamsThe group also contains Sweden and Tunisia. A draw would be a modest result for either side, but a win could dramatically improve chances of advancing to the knockout round.What to Expect on the PitchGiven Japan’s recent attacking breakthroughs and the Netherlands’ solid defensive record, the game may hinge on midfield battles and set‑piece efficiency. Expect a tactical showdown rather than a free‑scoring affair.

The Guardian's Football Daily NewsletterThe Guardian has launched its Football Daily newsletter, a free email service designed to keep football fans updated with the latest news and insights. This daily email brings together the Guardian's expert football coverage in one convenient delivery.What to ExpectEach edition of the Football Daily newsletter contains curated content from The Guardian's team of football writers. While specific content may vary, subscribers can expect coverage of major football events, analysis, and updates from the world of football.Benefits of SubscribingBy subscribing to the Football Daily newsletter, fans receive a dedicated source of football news delivered directly to their inbox. This eliminates the need to constantly check multiple sources for updates, making it easier to stay informed about the sport.How to SubscribeSigning up for the Football Daily newsletter is simple. Interested readers can visit The Guardian's website and provide their email address to start receiving the free daily football newsletter. The service is free to subscribe to and can be canceled at any time.

Al Jazeera's On-the-Ground Coverage Al Jazeera has reported from the site of an Israeli attack in southern Beirut, offering a firsthand look at the aftermath of the incident. Details of the Attack The Israeli attack targeted a location in southern Beirut, with Al Jazeera providing details on the ground. Impact on the Region The incident is likely to escalate tensions in the region, with potential implications for the Middle East conflict. Al Jazeera's Role in Conflict Reporting Al Jazeera has been a key player in reporting on conflicts in the Middle East, providing critical coverage of incidents like the Israeli attack in Beirut.

The Incident Fox will not face any sanction from FIFA for breaking the governing body's advertising rules during the opening game of the World Cup between Mexico and South Africa last week. Advertising Rule Breach The US broadcaster broke FIFA's strict guidelines for showing commercials during hydration breaks on the first occasion they were in operation by returning to the live action 10 seconds after play had resumed during the second half at Mexico City Stadium. The Explanation Fox's commercials overran by 40 seconds, but the broadcaster is understood to have provided an explanation to FIFA by claiming that it was unaware that referee Wilton Sampaio signaled a hydration break early after Raúl Jiménez scored Mexico's second goal of the game, and that it was unaware it had been called. No Action Taken FIFA is understood to have accepted Fox's explanation and will take no action. Fox owns the English-language rights to World Cup games in the US. Comparison with Other Broadcasters Telemundo, the World Cup's Spanish-language broadcaster in the US, has opted not to cut away to full-screen advertising during hydration breaks, which last for three minutes and take place once in each half regardless of temperature.