After years of scrutiny off the pitch, Qatar opened the most controversial World Cup ever with a listless performance on it. The hosts have tried a different way to build a team but were picked off by Ecuador on Sunday.

While the people of Iran protest back home, the national team sent a powerful message of their own from Qatar. Iran coach Carlos Queiroz conceded his players are "affected by the issue" after a 6-2 defeat by England.

Nations planning to wear a rainbow-themed One Love captain’s armband decided to back down on Monday. The seven countries have cited the threat of disciplinary action from world governing body FIFA for the decision.

After impressing in defeat to Belgium, Sam Adekugbe believes Canada can still make their mark at the World Cup. Talking to DW, the left-back outlined how the Canucks want to leave a big impression on the global stage.

The suspension of first-choice goalkeeper Andre Onana for 'disciplinary reasons' has reverberated around the squad. Cameroon secured a point against Serbia in Onana's absence, but must beat Brazil to progress.

The United States are through to the last 16 of the World Cup. They secured a 1-0 win through forward Christian Pulisic, sending home an Iran team who have left a lasting impression on the tournament.

On Thursday, Stephanie Frappart will become the first female referee to officiate a men's World Cup match when she takes charge of Costa Rica vs. Germany. One of her assistants, Neuza Back, has worked in Qatar before.

Borussia Dortmund and England midfielder Jude Bellingham is among the hottest talents at the Qatar World Cup. The 19-year-old has the world at his feet ahead of the tournament. Back home, his former coaches are as proud as can be.

Moroccan fans in Casablanca celebrate as their team makes history with their win over Spain to reach the quarter final stage of the World Cup in Qatar for the first time.

From its numerous controversies to its diplomatic match-ups, the World Cup in Qatar has been a gold mine for anyone interested in the intersection between sports and diplomacy.

The African continent finally has representation in the semifinals of a World Cup after Morocco beat Portugal in Qatar. The Atlas Lions saw off Cristiano Ronaldo and co thanks to Youssef En-Nesyri's towering header.

Fawaz Ould Ahmed is accused of being involved in multiple deadly attacks in Mali in 2015. He was already handed the death penalty by a Malian court in 2020.