World cup soccer

An Israeli flag was reportedly removed from a fan at a World Cup match between Iran and New Zealand, while nearby Palestinian flags were left in place, Hebrew media reported.

The match would be played during a symbolic tournament in the US, with players from all 211 of FIFA’s member associations present, including Russia.

US hospitals and agencies have enhanced preparedness due to the Ebola outbreak in the DRC. Officials note that "Ebola isn't airborne and doesn't spread through casual contact."

The US Iran peace deal is expected to be signed in Switzerland on Friday, with Pakistani and Swiss mediators present.

Supporters in Mexico waved Iranian flags and chanted “Team Melli” as Iran’s players departed for their World Cup opener in Los Angeles.

"They are expressing their happiness, a little bit violently, but it is what it is," said Youssef Sabbr, a 49-year-old Canadian of Moroccan descent.

Almost every action on the pitch will generate digital data, from player positions, ball movement, contact points, refereeing decisions, crowd movement, and even broadcast output for viewers.

The Israeli-Arab singer delivered a high-energy set featuring a powerful vocal performance. She is reportedly the only artist of Middle Eastern descent on FIFA's official soundtrack.

The world is not beautiful at the moment. But the 'beautiful game' still has the capacity to gather people, distract people, delight people, and occasionally inspire people.

The tournament is being staged across three different countries, Canada, the US, and Mexico - a first in World Cup history, meaning teams and fans will have to travel extensively between host cities.