The weekly column that explores football in the most intense region of them all, with stories from Jerusalem, the Gulf and the winter transfer window.
This Week in Middle Eastern Football: Transfer Window & Qualifications
Iran against the AFC, Palestine's Future and the Lebanese Tragedy: This Week in Middle Eastern Football
Iran and the AFC home venues saga, history in the Palestinian national team and the sad story of football in Lebanon. The past week was full of stories in the Middle Eastern football universe. Uri has picked three major of them.
Iran against USA, Football Style
Iran and USA’s recent political feud has spilled over to the football field - the USMNT has canceled it’s planned training camp in Qatar due to security fears, and Sergino Dest from Ajax decided on a similar action. As we already know, it’s impossible to disconnect politics and sports.
Nothing But Respect: Al-Hilal's Club World Cup Campaign
Al-Hilal Riyadh managed to hold Flamengo in the Club World Cup semifinal, only to lose in the end. Yet, the performance has gained Asian and Middle Eastern football some important points on the world stage.
Saudi Arabia, UAE and Qatar are Looking for The Gulf (Cup) Leadership
The 24th Gulf Cup will be played in Qatar, as Saudi Arabia and the UAE will leave the political crisis in the region aside. Can they manage that?