Empty seats, ‘missing’ Presidents and other activities from World Cup Day 2

After Mexico dazzled home fans with a 2-0 win over lacklustre South Africa, the other two co-hosts USA and Canada also gave home fans reasons to celebrate.

Canada registered their first point ever in the FIFA World Cup thanks to a second half equalizer against Bosnia & Herzegovina, while USA produced the best performance of the trio, thrashing Paraguay 4-1, with Christian “Captain America” Pulisic pulling the strings and Folarin Balogun netting a brace.

A dazzling day for the co-hosts in North America.

Co-hosts’ Presidents absent from country’s opening matches

Yaya Toure appointed first black coach of Slovan Bratislava

Rangers extends title-winning coach Ilechukwu contract to 2027

While the co-hosts were giving fans much to celebrate, the presidents of Mexico, Canada, and USA were absent from their countries’ matches. The presence of host country’s president on the opening day is a World Cup tradition, the no-show in North America highlights the highly polarized nature of this Mundial.

While President Donald Trump cited tight schedule and Canada’s Mark Carney was away in France for pre-scheduled bilateral meetings, Mexico President Claudia Sheinbaum reportedly stayed away from the Azteca stadium in solidarity with ordinary citizens priced out of ticket. Unprecedented.

EPL referee pulls out of match due to injury

Michael Oliver, renowned English Premier League referee, will not be able to take charge of Sunday’s World Cup match between Ivory Coast and Ecuador due to injury. One of two English referees at the World Cup, FIFA however revealed that he will return for subsequent round of matches, but his team of officials have also been replaced for their initially allocated Sunday fixture.

Congo DR arrive US in leopard skin suits

Congo DR, the last African nation to qualify for the World Cup through the intercontinental playoffs, finally arrived the US and touched down in style with Leopard skin-fitted suits. Their arrival followed weeks of Ebola virus fears and concerns, but the Leopards have arrived to the World Cup party living up to the team’s nickname, also carrying luggage made from Leopard skin. Statement.

Partey not part of Ghana’s Canada party

Football fans, pundits and media houses were handed another dose of immigration-related issue with the announcement that Thomas Partey will not be part of Ghana’s team to enter Mexico from the US following his ongoing legal troubles of alleged rape and sexual assault in England. The 32 years old is a key player for Ghana and his absence could dim the shine of the Black Stars.

Iran fans sues FIFA over flag

Iran and FIFA have had a fractious relationship with FIFA over their participation in the current participation, but the Islamic Republic’s request to ban fans from using old flags was approved by FIFA, and this has led to a court case.

A California-based non-profit organization that opposes the Persian country’s current leadership and recognizes its old “Lion and Sun” flag dragged FIFA before the Los Angeles County Superior Court, asking for “immediate judicial intervention” on the basis of free speech.

Local authorities in Seattle have also notified FIFA of their intention to not provide support for enforcement of the world football governing body’s ban when Iran play their first match against New Zealand on June 16.

England kits stolen and FIFA blames technical issue for empty seats

The England FA revealed on Saturday that equipment for training such as boots and other kits were stolen while being moved to the Swope Soccer Village in Kansas, England national team’s base. Two suspects have been arrested by Kansas Police, while the Europeans scamper for replacement before training on Sunday.

Also, FIFA has blamed the numerous empty seats seen during the opening fixtures on technical issues with its ticketing platforms. There has been widespread complaint of high ticket prices and withdrawal of previously approved tickets, but FIFA has cleared the air, stating it was not a deliberate attempt.

State Attorneys in four US states including California and New York have opened investigations over artificial price inflation and confusing seat classification rollouts, but FIFA maintains tickets remain available or purchase on its ticketing portal.

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