FIFA's plan to take over the running of African football is set to face a possible roadblock with an executive committee member of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) saying he will challenge the decision in court.

Hasan Bility, who is from Liberia and a CAF executive committee member for last two years, said he will ask the Swiss-based Court of Arbitration for Sport to declare invalid the agreement by which FIFA secretary general Fatma Samoura will be sent on a secondment to overhaul the African governing body.

Bility said he also wants to ask the court to compel CAF to start a forensic audit of its finances, which he said the executive committee had previously agreed to but CAF president Ahmad Ahmad then stalled.

CAF is in crisis following corruption allegations against Ahmad which he has denied.

Ahmad was reported in March to FIFA's ethics committee for alleged corruption and harassment by CAF general secretary Amr Fahmy. Fahmy was then fired.

He was detained in June by French police in Paris where he was questioned over a sportswear deal between CAF and a French company in which the African body is said to have paid exorbitant prices for equipment it could have got much cheaper directly from the manufacturers.

In a statement released to the media on Monday, former Liberian Football Association president Bility said Ahmad must resign and the proposed FIFA takeover be cancelled.

"In an attempt to salvage CAF from imminent implosion and irreversible reputational damage, FIFA proposed a poorly conceptualised and worse executed agreement," Bility said.

"Logically, and in a sane world, the acquiescence by the CAF leadership that they have been unable to manage their own affairs ought to have been followed by quick resignation of its top leaders.

"It is clear to me and many others that the agreement as currently structured has the sole purpose of shielding and cleansing CAF President Ahmad from the crimes he has committed – financial impropriety, sexual harassment and nepotism."

FIFA has confirmed there is an ethics investigation into Ahmad, although he was yet to be sanctioned.

Ahmad has not responded to Reuters' requests for comment on the specific allegations against him.

Bility also claimed FIFA President Gianni Infantino has seized on the opportunity to get rid of his secretary-general.

"Infantino has thus seized this opportunity to offer Fatma a 'golden parachute' into a confederation job to pave the way for her eventual replacement at the helm of FIFA," he said.

FIFA on Monday told Reuters it had no further comment to add to last week's release of an 11-point road map to help African football.

Infantino claimed last week that the unprecedented move to step in and administer African football would "significantly improve" the sport in the continent.

FIFA's plan to take over the running of African football is set to face a possible roadblock with an executive committee member of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) saying he will challenge the decision in court.

FIFA's plan to take over the running of African football is set to face a possible roadblock with an executive committee member of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) saying he will challenge the decision in court. Hasan Bility, who is from Liberia and a CAF executive committee member for last two years, said he will ask the Swiss-based Court of Arbitration for Sport to declare invalid the agreement by which FIFA secretary general Fatma Samoura will be sent on a secondment to overhaul the African governing body. Bility said he also wants to ask the court to compel CAF to start a forensic audit of its finances, which he said the executive committee had previously agreed to but CAF president Ahmad Ahmad then stalled. CAF is in crisis following corruption allegations against Ahmad which he has denied. Ahmad was reported in March to FIFA's ethics committee for alleged corruption and harassment by CAF general secretary Amr Fahmy. Fahmy was then fired. He was detained in June by French police in Paris where he was questioned over a sportswear deal between CAF and a French company in which the African body is said to have paid exorbitant prices for equipment it could have got much cheaper directly from the manufacturers. In a statement released to the media on Monday, former Liberian Football Association president Bility said Ahmad must resign and the proposed FIFA takeover be cancelled. "In an attempt to salvage CAF from imminent implosion and irreversible reputational damage, FIFA proposed a poorly conceptualised and worse executed agreement," Bility said. "Logically, and in a sane world, the acquiescence by the CAF leadership that they have been unable to manage their own affairs ought to have been followed by quick resignation of its top leaders. "It is clear to me and many others that the agreement as currently structured has the sole purpose of shielding and cleansing CAF President Ahmad from the crimes he has committed – financial impropriety, sexual harassment and nepotism." FIFA has confirmed there is an ethics investigation into Ahmad, although he was yet to be sanctioned. Ahmad has not responded to Reuters' requests for comment on the specific allegations against him. Bility also claimed FIFA President Gianni Infantino has seized on the opportunity to get rid of his secretary-general. "Infantino has thus seized this opportunity to offer Fatma a 'golden parachute' into a confederation job to pave the way for her eventual replacement at the helm of FIFA," he said. FIFA on Monday told Reuters it had no further comment to add to last week's release of an 11-point road map to help African football. Infantino claimed last week that the unprecedented move to step in and administer African football would "significantly improve" the sport in the continent.

FIFA's African football takeover plan set for court challenge

FIFA President Gianni Infantino said on Wednesday that the unprecedented move to step in and jointly administer <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-expected-to-take-control-over-running-of-african-football-228960&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi8gYvK573jAhWp8HMBHQSSC5MQFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1jkhv93IGBibCnfwjBMo7n">African football </a>with the regional body CAF will "significantly improve" the sport on the continent.

Infantino also brushed aside suggestions that there was widespread opposition to the move which followed corruption allegations against CAF president Ahmad Ahmad.

FIFA is sending its Senegalese secretary general Fatma Samoura on a ninth-month secondment from August to overhaul CAF which has been plagued by chaos.

Infantino attended a CAF executive committee meeting on Wednesday where members were shown an 11-point plan.

Suggestions in the plan, seen by Reuters, included possible changes to the format of CAF competitions, a review of refereeing and a task force to improve stadium security.

Other points included a review of CAF's judicial bodies, full transparency of money flows and implementation of good governance principles.

"What counts is that we decide to cooperate, that the highest <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-to-stick-with-32-teams-for-2022-football-world-cup-in-qatar-220740&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi8gYvK573jAhWp8HMBHQSSC5MQFjACegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw1ruQeBI4jrkh5TQgkfUTNr">FIFA </a>administrator is coming to work with CAF...to improve African football significantly," Infantino told reporters.

"This is about democracy. We take on board all comments of everyone and together we try to do our best. The only thing I ask is to judge on us on the results and not on speculation,"&nbsp;Infantino said.

Ahmad was reported in March to <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-fifa-boss-gianni-infantino-booed-at-womens-world-cup-final-ceremony-234012&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwi8gYvK573jAhWp8HMBHQSSC5MQFjAFegQIBBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3XmnBKM1xFFQ1vF1STH8Wg">FIFA’s </a>ethics committee by CAF general secretary Amr Fahmy, who was then fired.

Further allegations of fraud have recently been made against Ahmad, who was detained and questioned by French authorities in June as part of a corruption investigation.

Ahmad has denied wrongdoing in several media interviews but has not responded to repeated requests by Reuters for comment on the specific allegations against him.

FIFA has confirmed there is an ethics investigation into Ahmad, although he has not been suspended.

The second leg of the African Champions League final was abandoned in May in a row over the absence of the technology when it had been scheduled to be used.

When the referee disallowed an effort by Wydad Casablanca, they stormed off in protest that VAR had not been consulted, even though they had been told before the game that the system was not operational.

Their Tunisian opponents Esperance were initially declared champions but CAF then back-tracked and ordered a replay. Both clubs have since appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), asking to be declared champions.

The ongoing Africa Cup of Nations was only awarded to Egypt in January after the original hosts Cameroon were stripped of the right to stage the tournament.

CAF vice-president Amaju Pinnick said it was wrong to say that FIFA were taking over.

"We want to change the narrative from takeover to partnership and collaboration," he said. "People just feel that they are taking over but it's not the case.

"Basically, it's to strengthen our judicial, our governance and our fiscal discipline.....its pure collaboration," said&nbsp;Pinnick.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino said on Wednesday that the unprecedented move to step in and jointly administer African football with the regional body CAF will "significantly improve" the sport on the continent.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino said on Wednesday that the unprecedented move to step in and jointly administer African football with the regional body CAF will "significantly improve" the sport on the continent. Infantino also brushed aside suggestions that there was widespread opposition to the move which followed corruption allegations against CAF president Ahmad Ahmad. FIFA is sending its Senegalese secretary general Fatma Samoura on a ninth-month secondment from August to overhaul CAF which has been plagued by chaos. Infantino attended a CAF executive committee meeting on Wednesday where members were shown an 11-point plan. Suggestions in the plan, seen by Reuters, included possible changes to the format of CAF competitions, a review of refereeing and a task force to improve stadium security. Other points included a review of CAF's judicial bodies, full transparency of money flows and implementation of good governance principles. "What counts is that we decide to cooperate, that the highest FIFA administrator is coming to work with CAF...to improve African football significantly," Infantino told reporters. "This is about democracy. We take on board all comments of everyone and together we try to do our best. The only thing I ask is to judge on us on the results and not on speculation," Infantino said. Ahmad was reported in March to FIFA’s ethics committee by CAF general secretary Amr Fahmy, who was then fired. Further allegations of fraud have recently been made against Ahmad, who was detained and questioned by French authorities in June as part of a corruption investigation. Ahmad has denied wrongdoing in several media interviews but has not responded to repeated requests by Reuters for comment on the specific allegations against him. FIFA has confirmed there is an ethics investigation into Ahmad, although he has not been suspended. The second leg of the African Champions League final was abandoned in May in a row over the absence of the technology when it had been scheduled to be used. When the referee disallowed an effort by Wydad Casablanca, they stormed off in protest that VAR had not been consulted, even though they had been told before the game that the system was not operational. Their Tunisian opponents Esperance were initially declared champions but CAF then back-tracked and ordered a replay. Both clubs have since appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), asking to be declared champions. The ongoing Africa Cup of Nations was only awarded to Egypt in January after the original hosts Cameroon were stripped of the right to stage the tournament. CAF vice-president Amaju Pinnick said it was wrong to say that FIFA were taking over. "We want to change the narrative from takeover to partnership and collaboration," he said. "People just feel that they are taking over but it's not the case. "Basically, it's to strengthen our judicial, our governance and our fiscal discipline.....its pure collaboration," said Pinnick.

Infantino says African football will 'significantly improve' with FIFA help

The crowd at the women's World Cup final booed FIFA chief Gianni Infantino and French president Emmanuel Macron as United States fans demanded equal pay for the players after their team <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/usa-win-womens-world-cup-after-beating-netherlands-2-0-in-final-233834">claimed a fourth global title</a> by beating the Netherlands 2-0 on Sunday.

Macron and Infantino, the head of soccer's world governing body, were turned on by the supporters as they approached the ceremony podium -- a sharp contrast with the hero-like reception given to player of the match Megan Rapinoe by the 57,900 crowd.

Despite a recent rebound, Macron's popularity was last at 38 per cent in an Ifop poll, up 15 points since a low in December at the peak of the anti-government yellow-vest crisis.

US&nbsp;captain Rapinoe, the leading voice for equal pay in a sport where the men are far better paid than the women, scored the opening goal with a VAR-awarded penalty in the 61st minute at the sold-out Groupama Stadium.&nbsp;

Rose Lavelle rounded off the victory eight minutes later as the Americans added to their 1991, 1999 and 2015 world titles.

After the game Rapinoe told reporters,&nbsp;"I think everyone is ready for this conversation and move to the next step. I think we're done with,&nbsp;'Are we worth it? Should we have equal pay?'."

Earlier this year, members of the US&nbsp;squad were named as plaintiffs in a lawsuit against the national soccer federation alleging gender discrimination.

Watch: Fans booed&nbsp;FIFA chief Gianni Infantino and French president Emmanuel Macron

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Fans booed Infantino and followed it up by chanting “equal pay!” <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FIFAWWC2019?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIFAWWC2019</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/USWNT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#USWNT</a> <a href="https://t.co/p4Kw7vZrbU">pic.twitter.com/p4Kw7vZrbU</a>
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It was filed in federal court last month and says the women are not paid the same as their male counterparts.

On Saturday, Rapinoe launched a scathing attack on FIFA, saying the organisation did not respect the women's game.

Rapinoe said FIFA’s decision to allow the men's Copa America final and Gold Cup showpiece to take place on the same day as the women’s final was “unbelievable”.

Rapinoe shook Infantino and Macron's hands as she received her medal.

"It’s unbelievable to know all the people who put in so much in this group," she said.

"We have all our families and friends here. It’s surreal. I don’t know how to feel right now. It’s ridiculous."

The crowd at the women's World Cup final booed FIFA chief Gianni Infantino and French president Emmanuel Macron as United States fans demanded equal pay for the players after their team claimed a fourth global title by beating the Netherlands 2-0 on Sunday.

The crowd at the women's World Cup final booed FIFA chief Gianni Infantino and French president Emmanuel Macron as United States fans demanded equal pay for the players after their team claimed a fourth global title by beating the Netherlands 2-0 on Sunday. Macron and Infantino, the head of soccer's world governing body, were turned on by the supporters as they approached the ceremony podium -- a sharp contrast with the hero-like reception given to player of the match Megan Rapinoe by the 57,900 crowd. Despite a recent rebound, Macron's popularity was last at 38 per cent in an Ifop poll, up 15 points since a low in December at the peak of the anti-government yellow-vest crisis. US captain Rapinoe, the leading voice for equal pay in a sport where the men are far better paid than the women, scored the opening goal with a VAR-awarded penalty in the 61st minute at the sold-out Groupama Stadium. Rose Lavelle rounded off the victory eight minutes later as the Americans added to their 1991, 1999 and 2015 world titles. After the game Rapinoe told reporters, "I think everyone is ready for this conversation and move to the next step. I think we're done with, 'Are we worth it? Should we have equal pay?'." Earlier this year, members of the US squad were named as plaintiffs in a lawsuit against the national soccer federation alleging gender discrimination. Watch: Fans booed FIFA chief Gianni Infantino and French president Emmanuel Macron Fans booed Infantino and followed it up by chanting “equal pay!” #FIFAWWC2019 #USWNT pic.twitter.com/p4Kw7vZrbU — Lissa Tan (@page1of1) July 7, 2019 × It was filed in federal court last month and says the women are not paid the same as their male counterparts. On Saturday, Rapinoe launched a scathing attack on FIFA, saying the organisation did not respect the women's game. Rapinoe said FIFA’s decision to allow the men's Copa America final and Gold Cup showpiece to take place on the same day as the women’s final was “unbelievable”. Rapinoe shook Infantino and Macron's hands as she received her medal. "It’s unbelievable to know all the people who put in so much in this group," she said. "We have all our families and friends here. It’s surreal. I don’t know how to feel right now. It’s ridiculous."

Watch: FIFA boss Gianni Infantino booed at women's World Cup final ceremony

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has ramped up the pressure on Iran to ensure local female football fans are allowed to attend men's World Cup qualifiers in the Islamic Republic later this year.

In a letter seen by Reuters sent to the Iranian Football Federation (FFIRI), Infantino requested a timeline to be delivered to FIFA that would result in women to being able to buy tickets for the qualifiers, which begin on September&nbsp;5.

"Whilst we are aware of the challenges and cultural sensitivities, we simply have to continue making progress here, not only because we owe it to women all over the world, but also because we have a responsibility to do so, under the most basic principles set out in the FIFA Statutes," Infantino wrote to FFIRI President Mehdi Taj on Tuesday.

"I would be very grateful if you could inform <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-to-stick-with-32-teams-for-2022-football-world-cup-in-qatar-220740&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjruZW7tfriAhVUX30KHWq8DBUQFjACegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw2vsQUm-n0p5KmZ3u-qN6bP">FIFA</a>, at your earliest convenience but no later than 15 July 2019, as to the concrete steps which both the FFIRI and the Iranian state authorities will now be taking in order to ensure that all Iranian and foreign women who wish to do so will be allowed to buy tickets and to attend the matches,"&nbsp;Infantino said.

The FFIRI did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the matter.

While foreign women have been allowed limited access to matches, Iranian women have been banned from stadiums when men's teams have been playing since the Islamic revolution in 1979.

There were signs the situation was changing when a group of women were permitted to attend the final of the Asian Champions League in Tehran last November.

Infantino was present at the Azadi Stadium when Persepolis faced off against Japan's Kashima Antlers in front more than 1,000 female fans in a designated "family section".

That move came after concerted efforts from pressure groups from both inside and outside Iran, who were backed by senior players and former national team coach Carlos Queiroz.

It was hoped the breakthrough, which came after Infantino discussed the issue with Iran President Hassan Rouhani, would lead to further concessions on the issue in the conservative Islamic nation.

However, female fans have been denied access to matches since, with Iran's friendly against Syria earlier this month the latest incident when women were locked out of the Azadi Stadium and detained by security forces.

"The fact that these important first steps were made, and that I was able to witness it personally, makes it all the more disappointing that it was not possible to keep up the positive momentum," Infantino added.

"Unfortunately, this is, I also have to say, not in line with the commitments given to us in March 2018 by President Rouhani when we were assured that important progress would be made on this matter soon," he said.

Infantino pledged to give Iranian football authorities whatever assistance they required to ensure female fans would be granted access to matches.

"I would like to reiterate <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-expected-to-take-control-over-running-of-african-football-228960&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwjruZW7tfriAhVUX30KHWq8DBUQFjAAegQIABAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw08TiskBIRZUGKxK-gFy44m">FIFA's </a>full offer of support to achieve this goal and please allow me to underline, once again, that it is really imperative that we make progress here, and that we do so together," Infantino said.

Iran are among the top seeds in the draw for Asian qualifying for the 2022 World Cup finals in Qatar, which will take place in Kuala Lumpur on July 17.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has ramped up the pressure on Iran to ensure local female football fans are allowed to attend men's World Cup qualifiers in the Islamic Republic later this year.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has ramped up the pressure on Iran to ensure local female football fans are allowed to attend men's World Cup qualifiers in the Islamic Republic later this year. In a letter seen by Reuters sent to the Iranian Football Federation (FFIRI), Infantino requested a timeline to be delivered to FIFA that would result in women to being able to buy tickets for the qualifiers, which begin on September 5. "Whilst we are aware of the challenges and cultural sensitivities, we simply have to continue making progress here, not only because we owe it to women all over the world, but also because we have a responsibility to do so, under the most basic principles set out in the FIFA Statutes," Infantino wrote to FFIRI President Mehdi Taj on Tuesday. "I would be very grateful if you could inform FIFA, at your earliest convenience but no later than 15 July 2019, as to the concrete steps which both the FFIRI and the Iranian state authorities will now be taking in order to ensure that all Iranian and foreign women who wish to do so will be allowed to buy tickets and to attend the matches," Infantino said. The FFIRI did not immediately respond to a request for comment on the matter. While foreign women have been allowed limited access to matches, Iranian women have been banned from stadiums when men's teams have been playing since the Islamic revolution in 1979. There were signs the situation was changing when a group of women were permitted to attend the final of the Asian Champions League in Tehran last November. Infantino was present at the Azadi Stadium when Persepolis faced off against Japan's Kashima Antlers in front more than 1,000 female fans in a designated "family section". That move came after concerted efforts from pressure groups from both inside and outside Iran, who were backed by senior players and former national team coach Carlos Queiroz. It was hoped the breakthrough, which came after Infantino discussed the issue with Iran President Hassan Rouhani, would lead to further concessions on the issue in the conservative Islamic nation. However, female fans have been denied access to matches since, with Iran's friendly against Syria earlier this month the latest incident when women were locked out of the Azadi Stadium and detained by security forces. "The fact that these important first steps were made, and that I was able to witness it personally, makes it all the more disappointing that it was not possible to keep up the positive momentum," Infantino added. "Unfortunately, this is, I also have to say, not in line with the commitments given to us in March 2018 by President Rouhani when we were assured that important progress would be made on this matter soon," he said. Infantino pledged to give Iranian football authorities whatever assistance they required to ensure female fans would be granted access to matches. "I would like to reiterate FIFA's full offer of support to achieve this goal and please allow me to underline, once again, that it is really imperative that we make progress here, and that we do so together," Infantino said. Iran are among the top seeds in the draw for Asian qualifying for the 2022 World Cup finals in Qatar, which will take place in Kuala Lumpur on July 17.

FIFA ramps up pressure on Iran to grant women access to matches

A drastic and dramatic overhaul of African football is expected to be announced on Thursday, the eve of the kickoff of the African Cup of Nations, in the wake of corruption scandals consuming the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

The CAF executive committee took a stunning decision on Wednesday to cede control of the running of the organisation and have FIFA general secretary Fatma Samoura parachuted in as "<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-to-stick-with-32-teams-for-2022-football-world-cup-in-qatar-220740&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiU-Iq08PfiAhVFqY8KHTMtBeIQFjABegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3qcqXm7lwjFYI6bVIbphJY">FIFA </a>High Commissioner for Africa", according to sources.

No announcement has been made by African football’s governing body but its beleaguered president Ahmad Ahmad is scheduled to hold a press conference in Cairo on Thursday at 0900 GMT.

Ahmad, who is the subject of an ethics investigation by FIFA after allegations of corruption and sexual misconduct, proposed the idea in a document shared with colleagues on the executive committee, the sources said.

Samoura is to lead a FIFA team that will conduct "a root-and-branch review of the governance of the confederation, oversee the operational management of the organisation, and recommend where needed a series of reform efforts. This will be done in order to put CAF itself on a modern and sound footing, improve its image and reputation and thus ensure that CAF is better equipped to face future challenges and to grasp future opportunities," the document read.

FIFA is to also undertake a forensic audit of the monies they have been giving CAF.

The idea of sending Samoura to Africa is said to have been put together by FIFA president Gianni Infantino and CAF vice president Amaju Pinnick in the wake of Ahmad’s brief detention by French police last week for questioning on corruption allegations.

Ahmad, who is seeking to hold onto some semblance of power or even walk away from his post without sanction, had been forced to accept the deal and then propose it to his own colleagues, CAF sources told Reuters on Thursday.

With FIFA seeking to improve football's image, the Ahmad controversy has come as a major embarrassment to Infantino, who has been claiming a new-look, clean and corruption-free <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-lose-transfer-ban-appeal-but-can-register-minor-players-says-fifa-217035&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiU-Iq08PfiAhVFqY8KHTMtBeIQFjAIegQIAxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3zfSoPzTPOwQBHYqhoeIeF">FIFA</a>.

Ahmad, by virtue of his position as leader of African football, is automatically a FIFA vice president.

African football has been rocked not only by the firing of CAF general secretary Amr Fahmy for whistleblowing but also a walk-off in the Champions League final and the alleged assault on a referee by another of CAF’s vice presidents.

The Cup of Nations kicks off in Cairo on Friday when hosts Egypt take on Zimbabwe.

A drastic and dramatic overhaul of African football is expected to be announced on Thursday, the eve of the kickoff of the African Cup of Nations, in the wake of corruption scandals consuming the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

A drastic and dramatic overhaul of African football is expected to be announced on Thursday, the eve of the kickoff of the African Cup of Nations, in the wake of corruption scandals consuming the Confederation of African Football (CAF). The CAF executive committee took a stunning decision on Wednesday to cede control of the running of the organisation and have FIFA general secretary Fatma Samoura parachuted in as "FIFA High Commissioner for Africa", according to sources. No announcement has been made by African football’s governing body but its beleaguered president Ahmad Ahmad is scheduled to hold a press conference in Cairo on Thursday at 0900 GMT. Ahmad, who is the subject of an ethics investigation by FIFA after allegations of corruption and sexual misconduct, proposed the idea in a document shared with colleagues on the executive committee, the sources said. Samoura is to lead a FIFA team that will conduct "a root-and-branch review of the governance of the confederation, oversee the operational management of the organisation, and recommend where needed a series of reform efforts. This will be done in order to put CAF itself on a modern and sound footing, improve its image and reputation and thus ensure that CAF is better equipped to face future challenges and to grasp future opportunities," the document read. FIFA is to also undertake a forensic audit of the monies they have been giving CAF. The idea of sending Samoura to Africa is said to have been put together by FIFA president Gianni Infantino and CAF vice president Amaju Pinnick in the wake of Ahmad’s brief detention by French police last week for questioning on corruption allegations. Ahmad, who is seeking to hold onto some semblance of power or even walk away from his post without sanction, had been forced to accept the deal and then propose it to his own colleagues, CAF sources told Reuters on Thursday. With FIFA seeking to improve football's image, the Ahmad controversy has come as a major embarrassment to Infantino, who has been claiming a new-look, clean and corruption-free FIFA. Ahmad, by virtue of his position as leader of African football, is automatically a FIFA vice president. African football has been rocked not only by the firing of CAF general secretary Amr Fahmy for whistleblowing but also a walk-off in the Champions League final and the alleged assault on a referee by another of CAF’s vice presidents. The Cup of Nations kicks off in Cairo on Friday when hosts Egypt take on Zimbabwe.

FIFA expected to overhaul African football after corruption scandal

The former president of the Afghanistan Football Federation (AFF) has been banned from football for life after FIFA's ethics committee found him guilty of abusing his position and sexually abusing female players, the global soccer body said on Saturday.

Keramuddin Keram, also a former FIFA Standing Committee member, was accused by at least five Afghan female football players of repeated sexual abuse between 2013-18, FIFA said in a statement.

He was also fined 1,000,000 Swiss francs ($1.01 million).

The AFF could not immediately be reached for comment. It has previously rejected the allegations as "groundless".

Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani ordered an investigation after Britain’s Guardian newspaper reported in November that senior figures linked to the Afghan women’s team had alleged that some players had been molested by officials from the federation.

According to the Guardian, the alleged abuse took place inside the federation’s headquarters in Afghanistan as well as at a training camp in Jordan last February.

FIFA, which began its investigation in December when it suspended Keram, said he had breached ethics code rules on the protection of physical and mental integrity and abuse of position.

The ban applies to any kind of football-related activity.

The national women's team was formed in 2010. Some conservative-minded Afghans oppose women playing sports.

The allegations left the women's team in tatters and prompted a loss of sponsorship.

In March, an Afghan federation official said friendly matches scheduled for outside Afghanistan had been cancelled because so many players had stopped training since the allegations emerged.

Many parents, alarmed by public treatment of female players, urged their daughters to give up soccer.

Afghanistan is ranked as one of the most dangerous countries for women and allegations of sexual contact outside marriage can have deadly consequences.

Victims of sexual harassment are often extremely reluctant to come forward for fear that they will be accused of adultery.

Dubai-based Alokozay Group, a company with a ubiquitous presence in Kabul selling soft drinks, tissues and tea, pulled its $850,000 annual contribution to the federation in February, following Danish sports brand Hummel, which cancelled its sponsorship in late November.

Alokozay blamed an administrative vacuum resulting from the allegations and Hummel cut ties with the AFF, citing its “unacceptable behaviour”.

The former president of the Afghanistan Football Federation (AFF) has been banned from football for life after FIFA's ethics committee found him guilty of abusing his position and sexually abusing female players, the global soccer body said on Saturday.

The former president of the Afghanistan Football Federation (AFF) has been banned from football for life after FIFA's ethics committee found him guilty of abusing his position and sexually abusing female players, the global soccer body said on Saturday. Keramuddin Keram, also a former FIFA Standing Committee member, was accused by at least five Afghan female football players of repeated sexual abuse between 2013-18, FIFA said in a statement. He was also fined 1,000,000 Swiss francs ($1.01 million). The AFF could not immediately be reached for comment. It has previously rejected the allegations as "groundless". Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani ordered an investigation after Britain’s Guardian newspaper reported in November that senior figures linked to the Afghan women’s team had alleged that some players had been molested by officials from the federation. According to the Guardian, the alleged abuse took place inside the federation’s headquarters in Afghanistan as well as at a training camp in Jordan last February. FIFA, which began its investigation in December when it suspended Keram, said he had breached ethics code rules on the protection of physical and mental integrity and abuse of position. The ban applies to any kind of football-related activity. The national women's team was formed in 2010. Some conservative-minded Afghans oppose women playing sports. The allegations left the women's team in tatters and prompted a loss of sponsorship. In March, an Afghan federation official said friendly matches scheduled for outside Afghanistan had been cancelled because so many players had stopped training since the allegations emerged. Many parents, alarmed by public treatment of female players, urged their daughters to give up soccer. Afghanistan is ranked as one of the most dangerous countries for women and allegations of sexual contact outside marriage can have deadly consequences. Victims of sexual harassment are often extremely reluctant to come forward for fear that they will be accused of adultery. Dubai-based Alokozay Group, a company with a ubiquitous presence in Kabul selling soft drinks, tissues and tea, pulled its $850,000 annual contribution to the federation in February, following Danish sports brand Hummel, which cancelled its sponsorship in late November. Alokozay blamed an administrative vacuum resulting from the allegations and Hummel cut ties with the AFF, citing its “unacceptable behaviour”.

Former Afghanistan Football Federation president banned for life over sexual assault

French girl's soccer clubs hope the Women's World Cup in France this month will encourage more interest in female soccer, as the event is set to open in Paris on Friday (June 7) with the first game to kick-off between France and South Korea.

Next generation of French female footballers hope World Cup nets new fans

English Premier League side Chelsea have filed an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) against a transfer ban imposed by world soccer governing body <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-to-hear-chelsea-transfer-ban-appeal-on-april-11-205692&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiekfKYiNfiAhVk6nMBHWyHCXoQFjABegQIDxAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0IrV6Yq-BsVvMQDHxebUkL">FIFA</a>, the CAS said on Friday.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/europa-league-hazard-scores-twice-as-chelsea-thrash-arsenal-in-final-222607&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiBprqOiNfiAhWh63MBHfSQB3MQFjABegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0QiRJz0foD3nZc5qV6T0DD">The Europa League champions</a> were sanctioned in February for breaching rules regarding the international transfer and registration of players under 18. They were also fined 600,000 Swiss francs ($603,864.73).

The transfer ban prevents Chelsea from signing players in the close season and in the January transfer window in 2020 and CAS said they had registered the club's appeal, which could be considered just by written submissions.

"Following the hearing, if one is held... the panel deliberates and then issues its decision in the form of an Arbitral Award. It is not possible to say at this time when the Arbitral Award will be issued," the CAS statement read.

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-lose-transfer-ban-appeal-but-can-register-minor-players-says-fifa-217035&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiekfKYiNfiAhVk6nMBHWyHCXoQFjAAegQIBRAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw0_37kO6aADujWEg1tgxigi">Chelsea </a>had initially appealed against FIFA's ban in April and FIFA's Appeal Committee partially upheld the appeal, allowing the London club to register youth players during the period.

The club refuted FIFA's findings and had said last month they would appeal the decision to the CAS.

The CAS also said they would not provide any more information on the matter until the panel came to a decision.

English Premier League side Chelsea have filed an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) against a transfer ban imposed by world soccer governing body FIFA, the CAS said on Friday.

English Premier League side Chelsea have filed an appeal with the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) against a transfer ban imposed by world soccer governing body FIFA, the CAS said on Friday. The Europa League champions were sanctioned in February for breaching rules regarding the international transfer and registration of players under 18. They were also fined 600,000 Swiss francs ($603,864.73). The transfer ban prevents Chelsea from signing players in the close season and in the January transfer window in 2020 and CAS said they had registered the club's appeal, which could be considered just by written submissions. "Following the hearing, if one is held... the panel deliberates and then issues its decision in the form of an Arbitral Award. It is not possible to say at this time when the Arbitral Award will be issued," the CAS statement read. Chelsea had initially appealed against FIFA's ban in April and FIFA's Appeal Committee partially upheld the appeal, allowing the London club to register youth players during the period. The club refuted FIFA's findings and had said last month they would appeal the decision to the CAS. The CAS also said they would not provide any more information on the matter until the panel came to a decision.

Chelsea file appeal against FIFA transfer ban to CAS

FIFA said on Wednesday that they have upheld <a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelseas-gary-cahill-hits-out-at-manager-maurizio-sarri-after-terrible-final-season-216126&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiXg4uS-IviAhVUiHAKHcX_BqMQFjADegQIEBAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw15QkQwOGqVsRLVyVm0iJB6">Chelsea's </a>one-year transfer ban but the English Premier League club will be able to register youth players during the period following an appeal.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.google.com/url?client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;q=https://www.wionews.com/sports/chelsea-set-europa-league-record-with-1-1-draw-at-eintracht-215604&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=2ahUKEwiXg4uS-IviAhVUiHAKHcX_BqMQFjABegQIDhAC&amp;usg=AOvVaw3fPghudELfSe5qGwSxqwRC">Chelsea </a>was fined 600,000 Swiss francs ($589,970) and sanctioned in February in relation to 29 cases where regulations relating to the international transfer and registration of players under the age of 18 were breached.&nbsp;

"The FIFA Appeal Committee has decided to partially uphold the appeal lodged by Chelsea FC against the decision of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee to sanction the club with a ban on registering new players at both national and international level for the next two complete and consecutive registration periods," FIFA said in a statement.&nbsp;

"This ban applied to the club as a whole – with the exception of the women's and futsal teams – and did not prevent the release of players", the statement read.&nbsp;

But FIFA's Appeal Committee decided the club can still sign players under the age of 16 as they concluded imposing a ban on registering each and every minor "would not be proportionate to the offence committed".&nbsp;

The next step for Chelsea could see them take their case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport to try and freeze or overturn the ban.&nbsp;

FIFA said on Wednesday that they have upheld Chelsea's one-year transfer ban but the English Premier League club will be able to register youth players during the period following an appeal.

FIFA said on Wednesday that they have upheld Chelsea's one-year transfer ban but the English Premier League club will be able to register youth players during the period following an appeal. Chelsea was fined 600,000 Swiss francs ($589,970) and sanctioned in February in relation to 29 cases where regulations relating to the international transfer and registration of players under the age of 18 were breached. "The FIFA Appeal Committee has decided to partially uphold the appeal lodged by Chelsea FC against the decision of the FIFA Disciplinary Committee to sanction the club with a ban on registering new players at both national and international level for the next two complete and consecutive registration periods," FIFA said in a statement. "This ban applied to the club as a whole – with the exception of the women's and futsal teams – and did not prevent the release of players", the statement read. But FIFA's Appeal Committee decided the club can still sign players under the age of 16 as they concluded imposing a ban on registering each and every minor "would not be proportionate to the offence committed". The next step for Chelsea could see them take their case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport to try and freeze or overturn the ban.

Chelsea lose transfer ban appeal but can register minor players, says FIFA

Former Spain and Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas said on Monday that his health status is improving and his heart is happy after he <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/porto-goalkeeper-iker-casillas-suffers-heart-attack-taken-to-hospital-215131">suffered a heart attack while training</a> for his Portuguese club Porto. 
 
Casillas uploaded a song titled "corazon contento" ("happy heart") by Argentine composer Palito Ortega to his official Twitter account.&nbsp; 
 
“Good morning, I am with a #happy heart and what about you? I am getting better!” Casillas wrote. 
 
He could be discharged later on Monday to continue the recovering process at home. 
 
Casillas was hospitalised Wednesday after suffering a heart attack at Porto's training ground. 
 
The Spaniard, set to turn 38 this month, suffered an acute myocardial infarction during the training session and was rushed to CUF Hospital, where doctors performed a catheterisation.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Buenos días!! Yo con el <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Coraz%C3%B3nContento?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CorazónContento</a> y vosotros?? Seguimos mejorando! 😃💪 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ElLunesSuena?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ElLunesSuena</a> <a href="https://t.co/fKkWY8quHl">https://t.co/fKkWY8quHl</a>
— Iker Casillas (@IkerCasillas) <a href="https://twitter.com/IkerCasillas/status/1125330293228015616?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 6, 2019</a></blockquote>
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"Fortunately, (the problem) was diagnosed quickly and the procedures came out well," Dr. Nelson Puga, FC Porto's team physician, said, describing Casillas as "fine, stable, with his characteristic good humor, calm and accompanied by his family." 
 
The club said earlier that the goalkeeper's heart problem was "resolved." 
 
Real Madrid responded to the news of his heart attack with a statement of support. 
 
"Iker Casillas taught us during his professional career how to overcome the most incredible challenges to bring the club to new heights of glory," the Blancos organisation said of their former long-time captain. 
 
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez later on May 1 expressed his support for Casillas and wrote to Twitter: “A big hug for Iker Casillas and his family, we look forward to his quick recovery and having him back to goalkeeping." 
 
Likewise, other political leaders took advantage of the social networks to express their encouragement to the former player for Real Madrid and the Spanish national team. 
 
People's Party president Pablo Casado tweeted: “Be strong Iker Casillas; Come on, champion, I wish you a speedy recovery. A hug to the whole family.” 
 
The President of Portugal, Rebelo de Sousa, on May 2 telephoned the World Cup-winning goalkeeper to learn about his health as soon de Sousa 's plane had landed in the Iberian nation; the president was returning from a state trip to China. 
 
In his 16 years with Real Madrid, Casillas won the UEFA Champions League three times, LaLiga five times, the Copa del Rey twice, the Spanish Super Cup four times and the FIFA Club World Cup twice. 
 
He was just 19 when he hoisted the Champions League trophy for the first time in 2000, becoming the youngest goalkeeper to triumph in Europe's elite club competition. 
 
With Porto, Casillas has won the 2017-2018 Primeira Liga crown and the 2018 Portugal Super Cup. 
 
Casillas also leads all goalkeepers with 187 Champions League appearances and has posted the highest number of clean sheets in the tournament: 59. 
 
Capped 167 times, Casillas was part of the Spain side that won the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the European Championship in 2008 and 2012. 
 
Porto is currently two points behind Primeira Liga leaders Benfica with two matches left in the domestic season.

Former Spain and Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas said on Monday that his health status is improving and his heart is happy after he suffered a heart attack while training for his Portuguese club Porto.

Former Spain and Real Madrid goalkeeper Iker Casillas said on Monday that his health status is improving and his heart is happy after he suffered a heart attack while training for his Portuguese club Porto. Casillas uploaded a song titled "corazon contento" ("happy heart") by Argentine composer Palito Ortega to his official Twitter account. “Good morning, I am with a #happy heart and what about you? I am getting better!” Casillas wrote. He could be discharged later on Monday to continue the recovering process at home. Casillas was hospitalised Wednesday after suffering a heart attack at Porto's training ground. The Spaniard, set to turn 38 this month, suffered an acute myocardial infarction during the training session and was rushed to CUF Hospital, where doctors performed a catheterisation. Buenos días!! Yo con el #CorazónContento y vosotros?? Seguimos mejorando! 😃💪 #ElLunesSuena https://t.co/fKkWY8quHl — Iker Casillas (@IkerCasillas) May 6, 2019 × "Fortunately, (the problem) was diagnosed quickly and the procedures came out well," Dr. Nelson Puga, FC Porto's team physician, said, describing Casillas as "fine, stable, with his characteristic good humor, calm and accompanied by his family." The club said earlier that the goalkeeper's heart problem was "resolved." Real Madrid responded to the news of his heart attack with a statement of support. "Iker Casillas taught us during his professional career how to overcome the most incredible challenges to bring the club to new heights of glory," the Blancos organisation said of their former long-time captain. Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez later on May 1 expressed his support for Casillas and wrote to Twitter: “A big hug for Iker Casillas and his family, we look forward to his quick recovery and having him back to goalkeeping." Likewise, other political leaders took advantage of the social networks to express their encouragement to the former player for Real Madrid and the Spanish national team. People's Party president Pablo Casado tweeted: “Be strong Iker Casillas; Come on, champion, I wish you a speedy recovery. A hug to the whole family.” The President of Portugal, Rebelo de Sousa, on May 2 telephoned the World Cup-winning goalkeeper to learn about his health as soon de Sousa 's plane had landed in the Iberian nation; the president was returning from a state trip to China. In his 16 years with Real Madrid, Casillas won the UEFA Champions League three times, LaLiga five times, the Copa del Rey twice, the Spanish Super Cup four times and the FIFA Club World Cup twice. He was just 19 when he hoisted the Champions League trophy for the first time in 2000, becoming the youngest goalkeeper to triumph in Europe's elite club competition. With Porto, Casillas has won the 2017-2018 Primeira Liga crown and the 2018 Portugal Super Cup. Casillas also leads all goalkeepers with 187 Champions League appearances and has posted the highest number of clean sheets in the tournament: 59. Capped 167 times, Casillas was part of the Spain side that won the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the European Championship in 2008 and 2012. Porto is currently two points behind Primeira Liga leaders Benfica with two matches left in the domestic season.

Iker Casillas says he is improving, his heart is 'content'

Seven current and former players from various countries have been banned for life for their involvement in a match-manipulation following an investigation lasting several years, soccer's governing body FIFA said on Wednesday.

FIFA said the investigation centred around matches which convicted Singapore-based match fixer Wilson Raj Perumal attempted to manipulate for betting purposes.

FIFA named the players as Karlon Murray and Keyeno Thomas from Trinidad, Ibrahim Kargbo (Sierra Leone), Hellings Mwakasungula (Malawi), Seidath Tchomogo (Benin), Leonel Duarte (Cuba) and Mohammad Salim Israfeel Kohistani (Afghanistan).

In addition, a Kenyan player George Owino Audi was given a 10-year ban and Zimbabwean players' agent Kudzanai Shaba was banned for life. FIFA did not give any details on which matches they had attempted to influence.

Seven current and former players from various countries have been banned for life for their involvement in a match-manipulation following an investigation lasting several years, soccer's governing body FIFA said on Wednesday.

Seven current and former players from various countries have been banned for life for their involvement in a match-manipulation following an investigation lasting several years, soccer's governing body FIFA said on Wednesday. FIFA said the investigation centred around matches which convicted Singapore-based match fixer Wilson Raj Perumal attempted to manipulate for betting purposes. FIFA named the players as Karlon Murray and Keyeno Thomas from Trinidad, Ibrahim Kargbo (Sierra Leone), Hellings Mwakasungula (Malawi), Seidath Tchomogo (Benin), Leonel Duarte (Cuba) and Mohammad Salim Israfeel Kohistani (Afghanistan). In addition, a Kenyan player George Owino Audi was given a 10-year ban and Zimbabwean players' agent Kudzanai Shaba was banned for life. FIFA did not give any details on which matches they had attempted to influence.

FIFA bans seven players banned for life over match-manipulation

The chances of FIFA increasing the number of teams at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar from 32 to 48 is 50/50, the president of soccer's governing body Gianni Infantino said on Wednesday.

Infantino, who is in Brazil for a meeting of the South American Football Confederation, told delegates he was working to ensure the increase for the Qatar tournament, which would mean a guaranteed two extra places for South American sides.

"We are working to see if we can get 48 teams in the 2022 World Cup because more participation means more development and more passion for everyone," he said.

"We’ll see by June whether it is possible or not. (It’s) 50/50. What is 100 percent is that the 2022 World Cup is going to be spectacular and a total success."

A final decision on the number of teams for the next finals will be taken at the FIFA Congress in Paris on June 5.

FIFA chose to host the 2022 World Cup for 32 teams in Qatar, although Infantino has sounded out neighbours over their willingness to host some matches in an expanded tournament.

FIFA has already agreed to increase the number of teams to 48 for the 2026 tournament being co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico but is keen to expand quicker than planned.

The chances of FIFA increasing the number of teams at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar from 32 to 48 is 50/50, the president of soccer's governing body Gianni Infantino said on Wednesday.

The chances of FIFA increasing the number of teams at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar from 32 to 48 is 50/50, the president of soccer's governing body Gianni Infantino said on Wednesday. Infantino, who is in Brazil for a meeting of the South American Football Confederation, told delegates he was working to ensure the increase for the Qatar tournament, which would mean a guaranteed two extra places for South American sides. "We are working to see if we can get 48 teams in the 2022 World Cup because more participation means more development and more passion for everyone," he said. "We’ll see by June whether it is possible or not. (It’s) 50/50. What is 100 percent is that the 2022 World Cup is going to be spectacular and a total success." A final decision on the number of teams for the next finals will be taken at the FIFA Congress in Paris on June 5. FIFA chose to host the 2022 World Cup for 32 teams in Qatar, although Infantino has sounded out neighbours over their willingness to host some matches in an expanded tournament. FIFA has already agreed to increase the number of teams to 48 for the 2026 tournament being co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico but is keen to expand quicker than planned.

World Cup increase to 48 teams at 2022 finals is 50/50 - FIFA

India set their sights on qualifying for the 2026 World Cup as Praful Patel became their first representative on the powerful <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/revamped-fifa-club-world-cup-important-for-asia-gianni-infantino-208343">FIFA Council</a> on Saturday.

Patel, one of six Asian delegates elected to the Council at the Asian Football Confederation Congress, said the World Cup was the next big step for India after making great strides in recent years.

India's confidence has grown after a positive Asian Cup in January, where they returned to the tournament after eight years and were unlucky not to reach the second round.

"I personally feel that among all the countries in Asia there is a tremendous goodwill for India, and (also) China should be much more involved in the game and also the AFC and FIFA," Patel said in Kuala Lumpur.

"We should be putting our best efforts to make sure that the Indian team qualifies in 2026 for the World Cup," he added.

However, India are also searching for a new coach after Englishman Stephen Constantine quit following their Asian Cup exit after a last-gasp defeat to Bahrain.

India set their sights on qualifying for the 2026 World Cup as Praful Patel became their first representative on the powerful FIFA Council on Saturday. Patel, one of six Asian delegates elected to the Council at the Asian Football Confederation Congress, said the World Cup was the next big step for India after making great strides in recent years.

India set their sights on qualifying for the 2026 World Cup as Praful Patel became their first representative on the powerful FIFA Council on Saturday. Patel, one of six Asian delegates elected to the Council at the Asian Football Confederation Congress, said the World Cup was the next big step for India after making great strides in recent years. India's confidence has grown after a positive Asian Cup in January, where they returned to the tournament after eight years and were unlucky not to reach the second round. "I personally feel that among all the countries in Asia there is a tremendous goodwill for India, and (also) China should be much more involved in the game and also the AFC and FIFA," Patel said in Kuala Lumpur. "We should be putting our best efforts to make sure that the Indian team qualifies in 2026 for the World Cup," he added. However, India are also searching for a new coach after Englishman Stephen Constantine quit following their Asian Cup exit after a last-gasp defeat to Bahrain.

India earn top FIFA seat, eye 2026 World Cup

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has said his controversial plan to expand the FIFA Club World Cup can play a key role in further developing the club game in Asia despite European opposition.

Infantino's desire to expand the tournament from seven teams to 24 when it is relaunched in 2021 has been opposed by the European Club Association (ECA), which has issued a boycott threat.

But the Swiss administrator told the Asian Football Confederation's annual congress on Saturday that the expansion can help further improve the club game in the 47-member regional body.

"We have been speaking again about how we can improve them and make them better and we have been deciding at the last FIFA Council to give birth to a new FIFA Club World Cup with 24 teams, including three Asian teams," Infantino said in his address to delegates.

"I witnessed the final of the Asian Champions League in Tehran and there are clubs of great tradition in Asia and it's important we foster them and it's important we give them the possibility to shine on the world stage.

"That's why it's important to continue to develop our competitions, for example, with the new Club World Cup."

The reconfigured Club World Cup, which would be played once every four years, would feature eight clubs from Europe, six from South America as well as three each from Asia, Africa and Concacaf - which covers North and Central America nations plus those in the Caribbean - and one from Oceania.

Asian clubs have featured in the tournament since it was created in 2000, with two clubs from the continent - Kashima Antlers from Japan in 2016 and Al Ain of the United Arab Emirates last year - reaching the final. Both lost to Spanish giants Real Madrid.

Infantino also reiterated his desire to further investigate expanding the 2022 World Cup finals to 48 teams and asking current hosts Qatar to share the tournament with neighbouring nations.

"We are very happy with the preparations in Qatar and, of course, we have an additional topic on the table that we will bring, maybe, to the FIFA congress as well on June 5 in Paris," he said.

"And the question on the table is the question on the subject of whether we think we can already increase the number of teams participating at the World Cup from 32 to 48.

"The results of the summit has been very clear, 90 per cent of the associations would like to move to 48 teams because, of course, it boosts football development all over the world if we have 16 more countries participating in a World Cup and we are looking and analysing that with our partners in Qatar.

"Sharing a few games with a few of the neighbouring countries is, of course, an option as well to make it a true World Cup for the world and for the whole Gulf region.

"It's something to discuss, something to think about and something we are working on with Qatar and together with all of you and, of course, it would be a nice achievement if the first World Cup with 48 teams would be played in Asia."

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has said his controversial plan to expand the FIFA Club World Cup can play a key role in further developing the club game in Asia despite European opposition.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has said his controversial plan to expand the FIFA Club World Cup can play a key role in further developing the club game in Asia despite European opposition. Infantino's desire to expand the tournament from seven teams to 24 when it is relaunched in 2021 has been opposed by the European Club Association (ECA), which has issued a boycott threat. But the Swiss administrator told the Asian Football Confederation's annual congress on Saturday that the expansion can help further improve the club game in the 47-member regional body. "We have been speaking again about how we can improve them and make them better and we have been deciding at the last FIFA Council to give birth to a new FIFA Club World Cup with 24 teams, including three Asian teams," Infantino said in his address to delegates. "I witnessed the final of the Asian Champions League in Tehran and there are clubs of great tradition in Asia and it's important we foster them and it's important we give them the possibility to shine on the world stage. "That's why it's important to continue to develop our competitions, for example, with the new Club World Cup." The reconfigured Club World Cup, which would be played once every four years, would feature eight clubs from Europe, six from South America as well as three each from Asia, Africa and Concacaf - which covers North and Central America nations plus those in the Caribbean - and one from Oceania. Asian clubs have featured in the tournament since it was created in 2000, with two clubs from the continent - Kashima Antlers from Japan in 2016 and Al Ain of the United Arab Emirates last year - reaching the final. Both lost to Spanish giants Real Madrid. Infantino also reiterated his desire to further investigate expanding the 2022 World Cup finals to 48 teams and asking current hosts Qatar to share the tournament with neighbouring nations. "We are very happy with the preparations in Qatar and, of course, we have an additional topic on the table that we will bring, maybe, to the FIFA congress as well on June 5 in Paris," he said. "And the question on the table is the question on the subject of whether we think we can already increase the number of teams participating at the World Cup from 32 to 48. "The results of the summit has been very clear, 90 per cent of the associations would like to move to 48 teams because, of course, it boosts football development all over the world if we have 16 more countries participating in a World Cup and we are looking and analysing that with our partners in Qatar. "Sharing a few games with a few of the neighbouring countries is, of course, an option as well to make it a true World Cup for the world and for the whole Gulf region. "It's something to discuss, something to think about and something we are working on with Qatar and together with all of you and, of course, it would be a nice achievement if the first World Cup with 48 teams would be played in Asia."

Revamped FIFA Club World Cup important for Asia: Gianni Infantino

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/search?q=Gareth+Southgate">Gareth Southgate</a> has said his door is open for Phil Neville if the England women's team coach wants to reach out to him for advice ahead of the women's World Cup in June.

Southgate, who led the men's team to the World Cup semi-finals in Russia last year, meets Neville regularly at St George's Park and says information is already being shared between members of their support staff.

"We're all at St George's and in offices next door to each other so, as much as we can, we try and share what's going on across the games," Southgate told media.&nbsp;

"Phil knows that whenever he wants to pick our brains on tournaments or our experiences then we are here to help. It's not for me to go knocking and tell him, he knows we are here.

"A lot of the medical teams and physical performance teams are sharing information... because that area in the women's game has been underfunded and is better now because more of the bigger clubs are getting involved."

The Lionesses are ranked fourth in the world and are among the favourites to win the World Cup, which starts on June 7 in France.&nbsp;

Neville's side won the four-team SheBelieves Cup earlier this month, beating Brazil and Japan and drawing with hosts United States, who are also the reigning world champions.

"I think they've broken through. The bronze medal (at the 2015 women's World Cup) was a massive step forward," Southgate added. "They're hugely competitive now with all the top nations."

England, who are in Group D, kick off their World Cup campaign on June 9 against Scotland. Argentina and Japan are the other teams in the group.

Gareth Southgate has said his door is open for Phil Neville if the England women's team coach wants to reach out to him for advice ahead of the women's World Cup in June.

Gareth Southgate has said his door is open for Phil Neville if the England women's team coach wants to reach out to him for advice ahead of the women's World Cup in June. Southgate, who led the men's team to the World Cup semi-finals in Russia last year, meets Neville regularly at St George's Park and says information is already being shared between members of their support staff. "We're all at St George's and in offices next door to each other so, as much as we can, we try and share what's going on across the games," Southgate told media. "Phil knows that whenever he wants to pick our brains on tournaments or our experiences then we are here to help. It's not for me to go knocking and tell him, he knows we are here. "A lot of the medical teams and physical performance teams are sharing information... because that area in the women's game has been underfunded and is better now because more of the bigger clubs are getting involved." The Lionesses are ranked fourth in the world and are among the favourites to win the World Cup, which starts on June 7 in France. Neville's side won the four-team SheBelieves Cup earlier this month, beating Brazil and Japan and drawing with hosts United States, who are also the reigning world champions. "I think they've broken through. The bronze medal (at the 2015 women's World Cup) was a massive step forward," Southgate added. "They're hugely competitive now with all the top nations." England, who are in Group D, kick off their World Cup campaign on June 9 against Scotland. Argentina and Japan are the other teams in the group.

Gareth Southgate offers to help England women's team before World Cup

Chelsea have lodged an appeal against a one-year transfer ban to FIFA's Appeal Committee and the case will be heard on April 11, the sport's world governing body said on Monday.

The English Premier League club were banned from registering new players in the next two transfer windows and fined $605,000 after they were found guilty of breaching rules on signing foreign players under the age of 18.

FIFA this month denied Chelsea's request to freeze the ban during the appeal process.

Chelsea may take their case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, as other clubs have done in the past.

Chelsea have lodged an appeal against a one-year transfer ban to FIFA's Appeal Committee and the case will be heard on April 11, the sport's world governing body said on Monday.

Chelsea have lodged an appeal against a one-year transfer ban to FIFA's Appeal Committee and the case will be heard on April 11, the sport's world governing body said on Monday. The English Premier League club were banned from registering new players in the next two transfer windows and fined $605,000 after they were found guilty of breaching rules on signing foreign players under the age of 18. FIFA this month denied Chelsea's request to freeze the ban during the appeal process. Chelsea may take their case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, as other clubs have done in the past.

FIFA to hear Chelsea transfer ban appeal on April 11

Imagining himself as a peacemaker in a conflict-ridden part of the world, FIFA President Gianni Infantino sees a 2022 World Cup shared by Qatar with its Gulf detractors, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, as the magic wand that would turn bitter foes into brothers.

It may be a nice idea, but it is grounded in the fiction that football can play an independent role in bringing nations together or developing national identity.

The fiction is that football has the potential to be a driver of events, that it can spark or shape developments. It is also the fiction that sports in general and football, in particular, has the power to build bridges.&nbsp;

Infantino’s assertion that if foes play football, bridges are built is but the latest iteration of a long-standing myth.

Nothing could be further from the truth. Football is an aggressive sport. It is about conquering the other half of a pitch. It evokes passions and allegiances that are tribal in nature and that more often than not divide rather than unite.

In conflict situations, football tends to provide an additional battlefield. Examples abound.

The 2022 World Cup; this year’s Qatari Asian Cup victory against the backdrop of the Gulf state’s rift with the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Egypt; the imprint the Palestinian-Israeli conflict puts on the two nations’ football; or the rise of racist, discriminatory attitudes among fans in Europe.

The Bad Blue Boys, hardcore fans of Dinamo Zagreb’s hardcore fans, light candles each May and lay wreaths at a monument to their comrades who were killed in the Yugoslav wars in the 1990s. They mark the anniversary of a riot during the 1990 match against Serbia’s Red Star Belgrade, their club’s most controversial match, as the first clash in the wars that erupted a year later and sparked the collapse of former Yugoslavia.

The fact of the matter is that sports like ping pong in Richard Nixon’s 1972 rapprochement with China or the improvement of ties between North and South Korea in the most recent Summer Olympics served as a useful tool, not a driver of events.

Sports is a useful tool in an environment in which key political players seek to build bridges and narrow differences.

The impact of football in the absence of a conducive environment created by political not sports players, is at best temporary relief, a blip on an otherwise bleak landscape.

The proof is in the pudding. Legend has it that British and German soldiers played football in no-man’s lands on Christmas Day in 2014, only to return to fighting World War One for another four years. Millions died in the war.

Similarly, Kurds, Sunnis and Shiites poured into the streets of Iraqi cities hugging each other in celebration of Iraq’s winning in 2007 of the Asia Cup at the height of the country’s sectarian violence only to return to killing each other a day later.

Football’s ability to shape or cement national identity is no different. In other words. football can be a rallying point for national identity but only if there is an environment that is conducive.

The problem is that football and the formation of national identity have one complicating trait in common: both often involve opposition to the other.

That is nowhere truer than in the Middle East and North Africa where football has played and plays an important role in identity formation since it was first introduced to the region in the late 19th and early 20th century.

Qatar has been in some ways the exception that proves the rule by plotting its sports strategy not only as a soft power tool or a pillar of public health policy but also as a component of national identity. That element has been strengthened by the rift in the Gulf and bolstered by this year’s Asian Cup victory.

Qatar’s efforts to strengthen its national identity benefits from the fact that the Gulf state no longer operates on the notion that Gulf states have to hang together. Today it's hanging on its own in conflict with three of its neighbours.

Soccer’s role in identity formation in the Middle East and North Africa was often because it was a battlefield, a battlefield for identity that was part of larger political struggles.

Clubs were often formed for that very reason. Attitudes towards the country’s monarchy in the early 20th century loomed large in the founding of Egypt’s Al Ahli SC and Al Zamalek SC, two of the Middle East and North Africa’s most storied clubs.

Clubs in Algeria were established as part of the anti-colonial struggle against the French. Ottoman and Iranian rulers used sports and football to foster national identity and take a first step towards incorporating youth in the development of a modern defense force.

Zionists saw sports and football as an important way of developing the New Jew, the muscular Jew. To Palestinians, it was a tool in their opposition to Zionist immigration. And finally, football was important in the shaping of ethnic or sub-national identities among Berbers, Kurds, East Bank Jordanians and Jordanian Palestinians.

In other words, football was inclusive in the sense of contributing to the formation of a collective identity. But it was also divisive because that identity was at the same time exclusionary and opposed to an other.

The long and short of this is that football is malleable. Its impact and fallout depend on forces beyond its control. Football is dependent on the environment shaped by political and social forces. It is a tool that is agnostic to purpose, not a driver or an independent actor.&nbsp;&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

Imagining himself as a peacemaker in a conflict-ridden part of the world, FIFA President Gianni Infantino sees a 2022 World Cup shared by Qatar with its Gulf detractors, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, as the magic wand that would turn bitter foes into brothers.

Imagining himself as a peacemaker in a conflict-ridden part of the world, FIFA President Gianni Infantino sees a 2022 World Cup shared by Qatar with its Gulf detractors, the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, as the magic wand that would turn bitter foes into brothers. It may be a nice idea, but it is grounded in the fiction that football can play an independent role in bringing nations together or developing national identity. The fiction is that football has the potential to be a driver of events, that it can spark or shape developments. It is also the fiction that sports in general and football, in particular, has the power to build bridges. Infantino’s assertion that if foes play football, bridges are built is but the latest iteration of a long-standing myth. Nothing could be further from the truth. Football is an aggressive sport. It is about conquering the other half of a pitch. It evokes passions and allegiances that are tribal in nature and that more often than not divide rather than unite. In conflict situations, football tends to provide an additional battlefield. Examples abound. The 2022 World Cup; this year’s Qatari Asian Cup victory against the backdrop of the Gulf state’s rift with the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Egypt; the imprint the Palestinian-Israeli conflict puts on the two nations’ football; or the rise of racist, discriminatory attitudes among fans in Europe. The Bad Blue Boys, hardcore fans of Dinamo Zagreb’s hardcore fans, light candles each May and lay wreaths at a monument to their comrades who were killed in the Yugoslav wars in the 1990s. They mark the anniversary of a riot during the 1990 match against Serbia’s Red Star Belgrade, their club’s most controversial match, as the first clash in the wars that erupted a year later and sparked the collapse of former Yugoslavia. The fact of the matter is that sports like ping pong in Richard Nixon’s 1972 rapprochement with China or the improvement of ties between North and South Korea in the most recent Summer Olympics served as a useful tool, not a driver of events. Sports is a useful tool in an environment in which key political players seek to build bridges and narrow differences. The impact of football in the absence of a conducive environment created by political not sports players, is at best temporary relief, a blip on an otherwise bleak landscape. The proof is in the pudding. Legend has it that British and German soldiers played football in no-man’s lands on Christmas Day in 2014, only to return to fighting World War One for another four years. Millions died in the war. Similarly, Kurds, Sunnis and Shiites poured into the streets of Iraqi cities hugging each other in celebration of Iraq’s winning in 2007 of the Asia Cup at the height of the country’s sectarian violence only to return to killing each other a day later. Football’s ability to shape or cement national identity is no different. In other words. football can be a rallying point for national identity but only if there is an environment that is conducive. The problem is that football and the formation of national identity have one complicating trait in common: both often involve opposition to the other. That is nowhere truer than in the Middle East and North Africa where football has played and plays an important role in identity formation since it was first introduced to the region in the late 19th and early 20th century. Qatar has been in some ways the exception that proves the rule by plotting its sports strategy not only as a soft power tool or a pillar of public health policy but also as a component of national identity. That element has been strengthened by the rift in the Gulf and bolstered by this year’s Asian Cup victory. Qatar’s efforts to strengthen its national identity benefits from the fact that the Gulf state no longer operates on the notion that Gulf states have to hang together. Today it's hanging on its own in conflict with three of its neighbours. Soccer’s role in identity formation in the Middle East and North Africa was often because it was a battlefield, a battlefield for identity that was part of larger political struggles. Clubs were often formed for that very reason. Attitudes towards the country’s monarchy in the early 20th century loomed large in the founding of Egypt’s Al Ahli SC and Al Zamalek SC, two of the Middle East and North Africa’s most storied clubs. Clubs in Algeria were established as part of the anti-colonial struggle against the French. Ottoman and Iranian rulers used sports and football to foster national identity and take a first step towards incorporating youth in the development of a modern defense force. Zionists saw sports and football as an important way of developing the New Jew, the muscular Jew. To Palestinians, it was a tool in their opposition to Zionist immigration. And finally, football was important in the shaping of ethnic or sub-national identities among Berbers, Kurds, East Bank Jordanians and Jordanian Palestinians. In other words, football was inclusive in the sense of contributing to the formation of a collective identity. But it was also divisive because that identity was at the same time exclusionary and opposed to an other. The long and short of this is that football is malleable. Its impact and fallout depend on forces beyond its control. Football is dependent on the environment shaped by political and social forces. It is a tool that is agnostic to purpose, not a driver or an independent actor. (Disclaimer: The opinions expressed above are the personal views of the author and do not reflect the views of ZMCL.)

The fallacy of football's magical bridge-building qualities

A FIFA official detained for allegedly defaming the Bangladeshi prime minister has been freed, her lawyer said Wednesday, in a case closely watched by football's governing body and rights groups.

Mahfuza Akhter, a FIFA council member since 2017 and the national chief of women's soccer, was arrested Saturday after a local football organiser accused her of making derogatory comments about Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

She was granted bail this week and released from Dhaka central prison Wednesday afternoon "after we completed all legal formalities", said her lawyer Liakat Hossain.

Mahfuza in a press conference last month criticised Hasina for neglecting football in the cricket-mad country.

In an email to AFP, a FIFA spokesman this week said the footballing body was "monitoring this matter with concern".

The statement came a day after rights group Amnesty International demanded Mahfuza's unconditional release, saying she "was merely exercising her to right to freedom of expression".

If she is found guilty, Mahfuza could be sentenced to a maximum of two years in jail.

The arrest of the FIFA official marks the latest attack on freedom of expression in Bangladesh, Amnesty said.

Rights groups have accused the Bangladeshi government of using harsh laws to stifle dissent.

Scores of people have been arrested under strict internet laws and cases have been filed against at least 200 people for making derogatory comments about Hasina online, according to a cybercrime prosecutor.

Mahfuza's arrest came months after Bangladesh detained and charged award-winning photographer Shahidul Alam with making "false" and "provocative" statements in a televised interview in August.

He was jailed for 107 days -- the photographer said he was badly beaten while in custody -- and denied bail four times before being freed in November.

A FIFA official detained for allegedly defaming the Bangladeshi prime minister has been freed, her lawyer said Wednesday, in a case closely watched by football's governing body and rights groups.

A FIFA official detained for allegedly defaming the Bangladeshi prime minister has been freed, her lawyer said Wednesday, in a case closely watched by football's governing body and rights groups. Mahfuza Akhter, a FIFA council member since 2017 and the national chief of women's soccer, was arrested Saturday after a local football organiser accused her of making derogatory comments about Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. She was granted bail this week and released from Dhaka central prison Wednesday afternoon "after we completed all legal formalities", said her lawyer Liakat Hossain. Mahfuza in a press conference last month criticised Hasina for neglecting football in the cricket-mad country. In an email to AFP, a FIFA spokesman this week said the footballing body was "monitoring this matter with concern". The statement came a day after rights group Amnesty International demanded Mahfuza's unconditional release, saying she "was merely exercising her to right to freedom of expression". If she is found guilty, Mahfuza could be sentenced to a maximum of two years in jail. The arrest of the FIFA official marks the latest attack on freedom of expression in Bangladesh, Amnesty said. Rights groups have accused the Bangladeshi government of using harsh laws to stifle dissent. Scores of people have been arrested under strict internet laws and cases have been filed against at least 200 people for making derogatory comments about Hasina online, according to a cybercrime prosecutor. Mahfuza's arrest came months after Bangladesh detained and charged award-winning photographer Shahidul Alam with making "false" and "provocative" statements in a televised interview in August. He was jailed for 107 days -- the photographer said he was badly beaten while in custody -- and denied bail four times before being freed in November.

Bangladeshi FIFA official detained for allegedly defaming Sheikh Hasina, released from jail

A Bangladesh court granted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/bangladesh-fifa-official-arrested-for-defaming-pm-sheikh-hasina-204158">FIFA council member Mahfuza Akhter Kiron bail </a>on Tuesday, her lawyer said, days after she was arrested on suspicion of defamation after saying Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was neglecting football in the cricket-mad country.

"The court granted her bail until April 2 ... basically on medical ground as she is receiving cancer treatment," her lawyer, Liakat Hossain, told Reuters on Tuesday. Kiron will be released from prison when the prison authority receives the bail order.

Hasina's administration has recently been accused of cracking down on free speech and adopting an increasingly authoritarian style. The government, which won a third straight term in December, denies freedom of speech is under attack in the country of 165 million people.

Abul Hasan Chowdhury Prince, who filed the case against Mahfuza, said her comments against Hasina were derogatory.

If found guilty, Mahfuza could face up to two years in prison. Her arrest triggered criticisms from rights groups including Amnesty International.

"Championing football is not a crime. Mahfuza Akhter Kiron was merely exercising her right to freedom of expression by stating that the Prime Minister favoured cricket over football," said Saad Hammadi, South Asia Campaigner at Amnesty International.

"If the implications of a defamation case were not so serious, it would be laughable. Mahfuza Akhter Kiron must be released immediately and unconditionally."

A Bangladesh court granted FIFA council member Mahfuza Akhter Kiron bail on Tuesday, her lawyer said, days after she was arrested on suspicion of defamation after saying Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was neglecting football in the cricket-mad country.

A Bangladesh court granted FIFA council member Mahfuza Akhter Kiron bail on Tuesday, her lawyer said, days after she was arrested on suspicion of defamation after saying Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was neglecting football in the cricket-mad country. "The court granted her bail until April 2 ... basically on medical ground as she is receiving cancer treatment," her lawyer, Liakat Hossain, told Reuters on Tuesday. Kiron will be released from prison when the prison authority receives the bail order. Hasina's administration has recently been accused of cracking down on free speech and adopting an increasingly authoritarian style. The government, which won a third straight term in December, denies freedom of speech is under attack in the country of 165 million people. Abul Hasan Chowdhury Prince, who filed the case against Mahfuza, said her comments against Hasina were derogatory. If found guilty, Mahfuza could face up to two years in prison. Her arrest triggered criticisms from rights groups including Amnesty International. "Championing football is not a crime. Mahfuza Akhter Kiron was merely exercising her right to freedom of expression by stating that the Prime Minister favoured cricket over football," said Saad Hammadi, South Asia Campaigner at Amnesty International. "If the implications of a defamation case were not so serious, it would be laughable. Mahfuza Akhter Kiron must be released immediately and unconditionally."

Football: Bangladesh FIFA official held in defamation case gets bail

Cristiano Ronaldo trained with the Portugal squad on Tuesday (March 19) for the first time since his recall to the national team last week.&nbsp;

The 34-year-old, who is Portugal's most capped player with 154 appearances and all-time leading scorer with 85 goals, had not been included for any games in the second half of last year following the 2018 World Cup.&nbsp;

Coach Fernando Santos had initially said that a mutual decision had been made to give Ronaldo a rest following his move from Real Madrid to Juventus but had been ambiguous about the player's future when questioned in November.&nbsp;

Portugal continued to flourish without Ronaldo, winning their Nations League group against Poland and Italy with a game to spare to qualify for the final four-team tournament which the country will host in June.&nbsp;

Ronaldo was charged by UEFA on Monday over his goal celebration during Juventus' 3-0 win over Atletico Madrid last week.&nbsp;

Cristiano Ronaldo trained with the Portugal squad on Tuesday (March 19) for the first time since his recall to the national team last week. The 34-year-old, who is Portugal's most capped player with 154 appearances and all-time leading scorer with 85 goals, had not been included for any games in the second half of last year following the 2018 World Cup.

Cristiano Ronaldo trained with the Portugal squad on Tuesday (March 19) for the first time since his recall to the national team last week. The 34-year-old, who is Portugal's most capped player with 154 appearances and all-time leading scorer with 85 goals, had not been included for any games in the second half of last year following the 2018 World Cup. Coach Fernando Santos had initially said that a mutual decision had been made to give Ronaldo a rest following his move from Real Madrid to Juventus but had been ambiguous about the player's future when questioned in November. Portugal continued to flourish without Ronaldo, winning their Nations League group against Poland and Italy with a game to spare to qualify for the final four-team tournament which the country will host in June. Ronaldo was charged by UEFA on Monday over his goal celebration during Juventus' 3-0 win over Atletico Madrid last week.

Watch: Cristiano Ronaldo trains with Portugal team for Euro 2020 qualifiers

Australia's professional players union has slammed the country's support for the re-election of Asian Football Confederation President Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim al-Khalifa in the wake of the Hakeem al-Araibi affair.

Incumbent Sheikh Salman was roundly criticised for his inaction on the case of Australia-based Bahraini player al-Araibi, who was arrested in Thailand in November and imprisoned due to an Interpol notice issued at Bahrain's request.

Al-Araibi, who sought asylum in Australia after a Bahrain court sentenced him in absentia to 10 years' jail for vandalism, was released last month under the weight of huge international pressure and is now an Australian citizen.

Football Federation Australia (FFA) on Monday issued a statement confirming it had agreed to back Sheikh Salman in the April 6 election along with the 11 Southeast Asian countries who also make up the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF).

Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) said its executive had noted FFA's position with "deep concern".&nbsp;

"FFA's support – without consulting with key members of the FFA Congress – is difficult to understand given the unity of purpose the Australian football family recently displayed to help secure the freedom of Hakeem Al-Araibi," PFA Chief Executive John Didulica said in a statement on Tuesday.

"The inability of the incumbent to protect and promote the human rights of one of the game's players in line with his constitutional obligations demonstrates a breath-taking failure as the continent's highest office holder and a repudiation and abrogation of the office of President."

The FFA was not able to provide immediate comment.

The AFC waited two months after al-Araibi's detention in Bangkok to issue its first public statement, saying it was working with FIFA to try to resolve the case.

Al-Araibi has long denied he was involved in vandalism in Bahrain and has been a vocal critic of Sheikh Salman's leadership.

The PFA wrote to FIFA last week to ask how Sheikh Salman and other candidates in the AFC presidential race had passed the global governing body's "eligibility" checks but said they had not received any response.

The PFA also complained that it had not been consulted by the FFA's executive board over the governing body's backing for Sheikh Salman.

"We await FIFA and/or FFA to urgently provide the basis upon which the incumbent satisfied the eligibility criteria notwithstanding the fundamental concerns raised by the PFA over his ongoing tenure during the period of Hakeem`s detention," the PFA said.

On Monday, former Socceroo Craig Foster, who led the campaign to have al-Araibi freed from detention, described Australia`s support for Sheikh Salman as "sickening".&nbsp;

Australia's professional players union has slammed the country's support for the re-election of Asian Football Confederation President Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim al-Khalifa in the wake of the Hakeem al-Araibi affair.

Australia's professional players union has slammed the country's support for the re-election of Asian Football Confederation President Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim al-Khalifa in the wake of the Hakeem al-Araibi affair. Incumbent Sheikh Salman was roundly criticised for his inaction on the case of Australia-based Bahraini player al-Araibi, who was arrested in Thailand in November and imprisoned due to an Interpol notice issued at Bahrain's request. Al-Araibi, who sought asylum in Australia after a Bahrain court sentenced him in absentia to 10 years' jail for vandalism, was released last month under the weight of huge international pressure and is now an Australian citizen. Football Federation Australia (FFA) on Monday issued a statement confirming it had agreed to back Sheikh Salman in the April 6 election along with the 11 Southeast Asian countries who also make up the ASEAN Football Federation (AFF). Professional Footballers Australia (PFA) said its executive had noted FFA's position with "deep concern". "FFA's support – without consulting with key members of the FFA Congress – is difficult to understand given the unity of purpose the Australian football family recently displayed to help secure the freedom of Hakeem Al-Araibi," PFA Chief Executive John Didulica said in a statement on Tuesday. "The inability of the incumbent to protect and promote the human rights of one of the game's players in line with his constitutional obligations demonstrates a breath-taking failure as the continent's highest office holder and a repudiation and abrogation of the office of President." The FFA was not able to provide immediate comment. The AFC waited two months after al-Araibi's detention in Bangkok to issue its first public statement, saying it was working with FIFA to try to resolve the case. Al-Araibi has long denied he was involved in vandalism in Bahrain and has been a vocal critic of Sheikh Salman's leadership. The PFA wrote to FIFA last week to ask how Sheikh Salman and other candidates in the AFC presidential race had passed the global governing body's "eligibility" checks but said they had not received any response. The PFA also complained that it had not been consulted by the FFA's executive board over the governing body's backing for Sheikh Salman. "We await FIFA and/or FFA to urgently provide the basis upon which the incumbent satisfied the eligibility criteria notwithstanding the fundamental concerns raised by the PFA over his ongoing tenure during the period of Hakeem`s detention," the PFA said. On Monday, former Socceroo Craig Foster, who led the campaign to have al-Araibi freed from detention, described Australia`s support for Sheikh Salman as "sickening".

Australian players union slams FA's support for Sheikh Salman

A lawyer for FIFA council member Mahfuza Akhter Kiron is set to file a petition in a Bangladesh court on Tuesday seeking bail for the official who has been arrested in a defamation case following her criticism of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Mahfuza courted trouble after her remarks in a news conference last month in which she said Hasina was neglecting football in the cricket-obsessed country.

A sport organiser filed a defamation case against the 52-year-old who was arrested on Saturday.

"Hopefully, we'll file a bail petition tomorrow," her lawyer, Liakat Hossain, told Reuters on Monday.

The lawyer said Mahfuza was denied bail on Saturday but she was an "established woman" who represented the country abroad should be granted bail.

"We will file a bail petition again."

Hasina's administration has recently been accused of cracking down on free speech and adopting an increasingly authoritarian style.

The government of Hasina, who won a third straight term in a Dec. 30 election marred by violence and allegations of widespread rigging, denies freedom of speech is under attack in the country of 165 million people.

Abul Hasan Chowdhury Prince, who filed the case against Mahfuza, said her comments against Hasina were derogatory.

"I lodged the case as she made derogatory remarks against our sports-loving prime minister," he told Reuters.

A lawyer for FIFA council member Mahfuza Akhter Kiron is set to file a petition in a Bangladesh court on Tuesday seeking bail for the official who has been arrested in a defamation case following her criticism of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

A lawyer for FIFA council member Mahfuza Akhter Kiron is set to file a petition in a Bangladesh court on Tuesday seeking bail for the official who has been arrested in a defamation case following her criticism of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Mahfuza courted trouble after her remarks in a news conference last month in which she said Hasina was neglecting football in the cricket-obsessed country. A sport organiser filed a defamation case against the 52-year-old who was arrested on Saturday. "Hopefully, we'll file a bail petition tomorrow," her lawyer, Liakat Hossain, told Reuters on Monday. The lawyer said Mahfuza was denied bail on Saturday but she was an "established woman" who represented the country abroad should be granted bail. "We will file a bail petition again." Hasina's administration has recently been accused of cracking down on free speech and adopting an increasingly authoritarian style. The government of Hasina, who won a third straight term in a Dec. 30 election marred by violence and allegations of widespread rigging, denies freedom of speech is under attack in the country of 165 million people. Abul Hasan Chowdhury Prince, who filed the case against Mahfuza, said her comments against Hasina were derogatory. "I lodged the case as she made derogatory remarks against our sports-loving prime minister," he told Reuters.

Bangladesh FIFA official arrested for 'defaming' PM Sheikh Hasina

FIFA will go ahead with a new 24-team Club World Cup starting in 2021, its President Gianni Infantino said on Friday, setting the world soccer governing body in conflict with Europe's top clubs.&nbsp;

Infantino, speaking at a news conference, said FIFA had made the decision at its council meeting on Friday.

The competition, however, immediately faced a boycott from Europe's leading clubs, which include the likes of Real Madrid and Manchester United.&nbsp;

The European Club Association (ECA), which represents 232 European clubs, including all the major teams, wrote a letter asking Infantino not to make a decision now and saying they would not take part in the 2021 tournament.&nbsp;

Following Infantino's announcement, a spokesperson for the ECA said, "ECA clubs will not participate in 2021 CWC and will assess participation in editions of the competition post-2024."

UEFA, European soccer's governing body, later said it had a duty to protect the health of players and that its members of the FIFA Council had unanimously voted against the proposal.

"UEFA shares ECA’s view that the International Match Calendar in 2021 does not provide any realistic option to stage a 24-team Club World Cup and that it should furthermore not be played at a time when players should have a well-deserved rest period," it said in a statement.

The tournament would be held instead of the Confederations Cup in June 2021. No host nation has been decided yet, Infantino said.

"We went through a consultation process, spoke with everyone, some agree, others disagree, you have different views and positions," said Infantino.

"I am feeling very positive from the discussions and I am sure that at the end we will be very happy," he said.

"I understand the situation in Europe with stakeholders, the leagues, the clubs, small clubs, big clubs, the players' union -- it's more complex than other countries in the world.

"In football, we are not waging war against each other -- I am confident we can have a good and fruitful cooperation," he added.

Infantino said he believed a 48-team World Cup in 2022 in Qatar is "feasible", adding that FIFA would continue to study the options.

"If it happens -- fantastic. If it doesn't happen -- fantastic also," he said.

No decision will be made on expanding that tournament, with possible additional host nations, until June, Infantino said.

The FIFA Council also decided to use VAR video review technology at June's Women's World Cup in France.

FIFA will go ahead with a new 24-team Club World Cup starting in 2021, its President Gianni Infantino said on Friday, setting the world soccer governing body in conflict with Europe's top clubs.

FIFA will go ahead with a new 24-team Club World Cup starting in 2021, its President Gianni Infantino said on Friday, setting the world soccer governing body in conflict with Europe's top clubs. Infantino, speaking at a news conference, said FIFA had made the decision at its council meeting on Friday. The competition, however, immediately faced a boycott from Europe's leading clubs, which include the likes of Real Madrid and Manchester United. The European Club Association (ECA), which represents 232 European clubs, including all the major teams, wrote a letter asking Infantino not to make a decision now and saying they would not take part in the 2021 tournament. Following Infantino's announcement, a spokesperson for the ECA said, "ECA clubs will not participate in 2021 CWC and will assess participation in editions of the competition post-2024." UEFA, European soccer's governing body, later said it had a duty to protect the health of players and that its members of the FIFA Council had unanimously voted against the proposal. "UEFA shares ECA’s view that the International Match Calendar in 2021 does not provide any realistic option to stage a 24-team Club World Cup and that it should furthermore not be played at a time when players should have a well-deserved rest period," it said in a statement. The tournament would be held instead of the Confederations Cup in June 2021. No host nation has been decided yet, Infantino said. "We went through a consultation process, spoke with everyone, some agree, others disagree, you have different views and positions," said Infantino. "I am feeling very positive from the discussions and I am sure that at the end we will be very happy," he said. "I understand the situation in Europe with stakeholders, the leagues, the clubs, small clubs, big clubs, the players' union -- it's more complex than other countries in the world. "In football, we are not waging war against each other -- I am confident we can have a good and fruitful cooperation," he added. Infantino said he believed a 48-team World Cup in 2022 in Qatar is "feasible", adding that FIFA would continue to study the options. "If it happens -- fantastic. If it doesn't happen -- fantastic also," he said. No decision will be made on expanding that tournament, with possible additional host nations, until June, Infantino said. The FIFA Council also decided to use VAR video review technology at June's Women's World Cup in France.

FIFA votes for new Club World Cup, Euro clubs confirm boycott

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-mass-shooting-suspect-remanded-until-april-5-203622">New Zealand mass shooting suspect charged with murder, remanded until April 5</a>

The main suspect in mass shootings at two New Zealand mosques was charged with one count of murder on Saturday, a day after the attack that killed 49 people and wounded dozens, prompting the prime minister to vow reform of the country's gun laws.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-vetoes-measure-to-end-his-emergency-declaration-on-border-wall-203626">Trump vetoes measure to end his emergency declaration on </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-vetoes-measure-to-end-his-emergency-declaration-on-border-wall-203626">border</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trump-vetoes-measure-to-end-his-emergency-declaration-on-border-wall-203626"> wall</a>

President Donald Trump issued the first veto of his presidency on Friday to block a&nbsp;measure passed by Democrats and Republicans&nbsp;in Congress that would terminate his emergency declaration for a wall on the&nbsp;US border with Mexico.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-to-host-fifa-u-17-womens-world-cup-in-2020-203620">India to host FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in 2020</a>

India is set to host the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in 2020. The decision to award the rights to India was taken at the FIFA Council meeting in Miami, USA on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/new-zealand-pm-vows-gun-reforms-after-racist-mosque-massacre-203623">New Zealand PM vows gun reforms after mosque massacre</a>

New Zealand's prime minister vowed to toughen the country's gun laws after revealing Saturday that the man&nbsp;accused of murdering 49 people&nbsp;in two mosques legally purchased the arsenal of firearms used in the massacre.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-secretary-of-state-pompeo-says-us-hopes-to-continue-talks-with-north-korea-203592">US Secretary of State Pompeo says </a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-secretary-of-state-pompeo-says-us-hopes-to-continue-talks-with-north-korea-203592">US</a><a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-secretary-of-state-pompeo-says-us-hopes-to-continue-talks-with-north-korea-203592"> hopes to continue talks with North Korea</a>

The United States is hopeful that it can continue to hold&nbsp;denuclearization talks&nbsp;with North Korea, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Friday (March 15) following reports that a top Pyongyang official had said the country may suspend negotiations.

New Zealand mass shooting suspect charged with murder, remanded until April 5 The main suspect in mass shootings at two New Zealand mosques was charged with one count of murder on Saturday, a day after the attack that killed 49 people and wounded dozens, prompting the prime minister to vow reform of the country's gun laws.

New Zealand mass shooting suspect charged with murder, remanded until April 5 The main suspect in mass shootings at two New Zealand mosques was charged with one count of murder on Saturday, a day after the attack that killed 49 people and wounded dozens, prompting the prime minister to vow reform of the country's gun laws. Trump vetoes measure to end his emergency declaration on border wall President Donald Trump issued the first veto of his presidency on Friday to block a measure passed by Democrats and Republicans in Congress that would terminate his emergency declaration for a wall on the US border with Mexico. India to host FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in 2020 India is set to host the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in 2020. The decision to award the rights to India was taken at the FIFA Council meeting in Miami, USA on Friday. New Zealand PM vows gun reforms after mosque massacre New Zealand's prime minister vowed to toughen the country's gun laws after revealing Saturday that the man accused of murdering 49 people in two mosques legally purchased the arsenal of firearms used in the massacre. US Secretary of State Pompeo says US hopes to continue talks with North Korea The United States is hopeful that it can continue to hold denuclearization talks with North Korea, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said on Friday (March 15) following reports that a top Pyongyang official had said the country may suspend negotiations.

News brief: Big stories of the day

India is set to host the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in 2020.

The decision to award the rights to India was taken at the FIFA Council meeting in Miami, USA on Friday.

"CONFIRMED: @IndianFootball will host the 2020 #U17WWC in #India," read a tweet by FIFA Women's World Cup.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
CONFIRMED: <a href="https://twitter.com/IndianFootball?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@IndianFootball</a> will host the 2020 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/U17WWC?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#U17WWC</a> in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/India?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#India</a> 🇮🇳. <a href="https://t.co/kvRMR80RMO">pic.twitter.com/kvRMR80RMO</a>
— FIFA Women's World Cup 🇫🇷 (@FIFAWWC) <a href="https://twitter.com/FIFAWWC/status/1106610991473836032?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 15, 2019</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

All India Football Federation (AIFF) president Praful Patel also confirmed the news, saying organisers would ensure to make the event a "grand success."

"A very proud moment and an honour that our country #India and #AIFF has been confirmed as the host of #FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in 2020. We will strive to make it a grand success," he tweeted.

By virtue of being the host country, India will take part in the prestigious tournament for the first time in its history.

This is the second FIFA tournament that is set to take place in India after it hosted the FIFA Under-17 Men’s World Cup in 2017.

After the success of the Under-17 Men’s World Cup, India had expressed its interest in hosting the U-17 Women's World Cup.

Currently, the Indian women’s national team is participating in the SAFF Women’s Championship 2019 in Nepal, where it began its campaign with a thumping 6-0 win over Maldives on Wednesday.

Notably, India has an unbeaten record in the SAFF championship and has lifted the trophy four times.&nbsp;

India is set to host the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in 2020. The decision to award the rights to India was taken at the FIFA Council meeting in Miami, USA on Friday.

India is set to host the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in 2020. The decision to award the rights to India was taken at the FIFA Council meeting in Miami, USA on Friday. "CONFIRMED: @IndianFootball will host the 2020 #U17WWC in #India," read a tweet by FIFA Women's World Cup. CONFIRMED: @IndianFootball will host the 2020 #U17WWC in #India 🇮🇳. pic.twitter.com/kvRMR80RMO — FIFA Women's World Cup 🇫🇷 (@FIFAWWC) March 15, 2019 × All India Football Federation (AIFF) president Praful Patel also confirmed the news, saying organisers would ensure to make the event a "grand success." "A very proud moment and an honour that our country #India and #AIFF has been confirmed as the host of #FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in 2020. We will strive to make it a grand success," he tweeted. By virtue of being the host country, India will take part in the prestigious tournament for the first time in its history. This is the second FIFA tournament that is set to take place in India after it hosted the FIFA Under-17 Men’s World Cup in 2017. After the success of the Under-17 Men’s World Cup, India had expressed its interest in hosting the U-17 Women's World Cup. Currently, the Indian women’s national team is participating in the SAFF Women’s Championship 2019 in Nepal, where it began its campaign with a thumping 6-0 win over Maldives on Wednesday. Notably, India has an unbeaten record in the SAFF championship and has lifted the trophy four times.

India to host FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup in 2020

FIFA's drive to expand World Cup 2022 and stage it beyond Qatar risks including host countries that do not meet the soccer governing body's own standards on rights and labour, campaign groups said on Tuesday.

FIFA will discuss expanding the tournament to 48 teams from 32 at a council meeting this week - a format it says will likely require it to stage matches in neighbouring Gulf states such as Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait or Oman.

"There are clear human rights risks associated with adding new hosts for the 2022 World Cup," said Stephen Cockburn, Deputy Director of Global Issues at&nbsp;Amnesty&nbsp;International.

"Not least the potential widespread exploitation of migrant workers providing construction and other services for the World Cup that could cast a major shadow over the world's biggest sporting event," he said.

Qatar has come under fire from rights groups in recent years that say its sponsorship system for workers restricts their ability to leave the country, change jobs, and collect owed wages, leaving them vulnerable to abuse.

Doha says it is committed to reform and has enacted measures such as introducing a minimum wage, ending a requirement for permits to exit the country for most workers, and setting up dispute panels to hear workers' grievances.

There was no immediate reaction from other Gulf Arab countries on Tuesday.

While some such as the United Arab Emirates have introduced labour reforms, such as guaranteed time off for domestic workers, rights groups say their sponsorship systems still often leave workers vulnerable by restricting freedom of movement.

In a letter to FIFA head Gianni Infantino, groups including Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch and the International Trade Union Congress said FIFA must ensure any additional hosts meet rights standards introduced by the soccer body in 2017 and make similar reform pledges.

A FIFA spokesperson said its commitment to human rights are "unequivocal" and written into the hosting requirements of all future tournaments.

The FIFA spokesperson said the feasibility study being presented on Friday confirmed that these standards would apply to any co-hosting country.

The prospects for expansion have been complicated by a Gulf dispute under which Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain imposed a political and economic boycott of Qatar in mid-2017 over allegations it supports terrorism, which Doha denies.

FIFA has courted Kuwait and Oman, which have remained neutral in the dispute, as alternative sites according to a New York Times report.

FIFA's drive to expand World Cup 2022 and stage it beyond Qatar risks including host countries that do not meet the soccer governing body's own standards on rights and labour, campaign groups said on Tuesday.

FIFA's drive to expand World Cup 2022 and stage it beyond Qatar risks including host countries that do not meet the soccer governing body's own standards on rights and labour, campaign groups said on Tuesday. FIFA will discuss expanding the tournament to 48 teams from 32 at a council meeting this week - a format it says will likely require it to stage matches in neighbouring Gulf states such as Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait or Oman. "There are clear human rights risks associated with adding new hosts for the 2022 World Cup," said Stephen Cockburn, Deputy Director of Global Issues at Amnesty International. "Not least the potential widespread exploitation of migrant workers providing construction and other services for the World Cup that could cast a major shadow over the world's biggest sporting event," he said. Qatar has come under fire from rights groups in recent years that say its sponsorship system for workers restricts their ability to leave the country, change jobs, and collect owed wages, leaving them vulnerable to abuse. Doha says it is committed to reform and has enacted measures such as introducing a minimum wage, ending a requirement for permits to exit the country for most workers, and setting up dispute panels to hear workers' grievances. There was no immediate reaction from other Gulf Arab countries on Tuesday. While some such as the United Arab Emirates have introduced labour reforms, such as guaranteed time off for domestic workers, rights groups say their sponsorship systems still often leave workers vulnerable by restricting freedom of movement. In a letter to FIFA head Gianni Infantino, groups including Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch and the International Trade Union Congress said FIFA must ensure any additional hosts meet rights standards introduced by the soccer body in 2017 and make similar reform pledges. A FIFA spokesperson said its commitment to human rights are "unequivocal" and written into the hosting requirements of all future tournaments. The FIFA spokesperson said the feasibility study being presented on Friday confirmed that these standards would apply to any co-hosting country. The prospects for expansion have been complicated by a Gulf dispute under which Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Bahrain imposed a political and economic boycott of Qatar in mid-2017 over allegations it supports terrorism, which Doha denies. FIFA has courted Kuwait and Oman, which have remained neutral in the dispute, as alternative sites according to a New York Times report.

As FIFA eyes World Cup expansion, rights groups say workers at risk

Chelsea&nbsp;have slammed FIFA's decision not to suspend a two-window transfer ban pending the outcome of an appeal, claiming they are "astonished" by a move that would ruin the club's plans to revamp their struggling squad.

The Blues were banned from signing players for the next two transfer windows after being found guilty last month of breaching regulations relating to the recruitment of minors.

Chelsea&nbsp;denied any wrongdoing and subsequently <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-confirm-chelsea-appeal-against-transfer-ban-201419">lodged an appeal</a> with the governing body.

However, FIFA's appeal committee has announced that an application by the club for "provisional measures" has been rejected.

The announcement left&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;fuming and the Premier League club were quick to hit back.

"Chelsea&nbsp;Football Club is astonished by the FIFA Appeal Committee's decision not to suspend its sanction pending completion of the appeal process," a&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;statement said on Friday.

"The club acted in accordance with the relevant regulations and has already notified FIFA of its intention to appeal against the Disciplinary Committee's decision and sanction.

"As a matter of procedural fairness and equality of treatment, and Swiss law, the Club's right to an appeal process must be afforded, before any irremediable sanction takes effect.

"So far as the Club is aware, in all previous cases where a registration ban has been imposed by FIFA, a decision has also been made to suspend the sanction until the appeal process has been completed."

FIFA's decision means the original restrictions stand and&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;will be unable to recruit new players this summer or in the January 2020 transfer window.

In similar cases, Spanish clubs Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid were each granted provisional measures which ensured bans were not immediately enforced.

Chelsea&nbsp;feel their treatment is inconsistent and will consider their next steps once written reasons for the decision are received from FIFA. This could include an appeal against this decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).&nbsp;

"In this case,&nbsp;Chelsea&nbsp;considers that it is being treated inconsistently in comparison with other European clubs," the statement said.

We will consider our next steps once we have received the written reasons for this decision from FIFA.&nbsp;

"The Club notes the Appeal Committee’s statement that it has the right to appeal to CAS. In the meantime the Club will continue to fully cooperate with the proceedings."

Chelsea have slammed FIFA's decision not to suspend a two-window transfer ban pending the outcome of an appeal, claiming they are "astonished" by a move that would ruin the club's plans to revamp their struggling squad.

Chelsea have slammed FIFA's decision not to suspend a two-window transfer ban pending the outcome of an appeal, claiming they are "astonished" by a move that would ruin the club's plans to revamp their struggling squad. The Blues were banned from signing players for the next two transfer windows after being found guilty last month of breaching regulations relating to the recruitment of minors. Chelsea denied any wrongdoing and subsequently lodged an appeal with the governing body. However, FIFA's appeal committee has announced that an application by the club for "provisional measures" has been rejected. The announcement left Chelsea fuming and the Premier League club were quick to hit back. "Chelsea Football Club is astonished by the FIFA Appeal Committee's decision not to suspend its sanction pending completion of the appeal process," a Chelsea statement said on Friday. "The club acted in accordance with the relevant regulations and has already notified FIFA of its intention to appeal against the Disciplinary Committee's decision and sanction. "As a matter of procedural fairness and equality of treatment, and Swiss law, the Club's right to an appeal process must be afforded, before any irremediable sanction takes effect. "So far as the Club is aware, in all previous cases where a registration ban has been imposed by FIFA, a decision has also been made to suspend the sanction until the appeal process has been completed." FIFA's decision means the original restrictions stand and Chelsea will be unable to recruit new players this summer or in the January 2020 transfer window. In similar cases, Spanish clubs Real Madrid, Barcelona and Atletico Madrid were each granted provisional measures which ensured bans were not immediately enforced. Chelsea feel their treatment is inconsistent and will consider their next steps once written reasons for the decision are received from FIFA. This could include an appeal against this decision to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS). "In this case, Chelsea considers that it is being treated inconsistently in comparison with other European clubs," the statement said. We will consider our next steps once we have received the written reasons for this decision from FIFA. "The Club notes the Appeal Committee’s statement that it has the right to appeal to CAS. In the meantime the Club will continue to fully cooperate with the proceedings."

Chelsea 'astonished' by FIFA transfer snub

A member of the decision-making FIFA Council has been banned for three months and fined 20,000 Swiss francs ($19,906) for breaching rules on the resale of World Cup tickets, the global soccer body said on Thursday.

FIFA said that Lee Harmon, president of the Cook Islands Football Association (CIFA), had "mutually agreed" the sanction with its ethics committee in a plea bargain following an investigation which began in July, shortly after the World Cup in Russia.

FIFA said the investigation concerned the resale of tickets for the tournament but did not give further details. It did not immediately reply to a request for additional information.

Harmon, who could not immediately be reached for comment, has been CIFA president since 1997 and a FIFA Council member since 2016.

His biography on the FIFA Council website says he has been a match commissioner and referee assessor at various FIFA tournaments and international matches.

FIFA has been trying to root out corruption and unethical conduct after several dozen soccer officials were indicted in the United States in 2015, plunging the global soccer body into the worst crisis in its history.

One of the measures was to replace the old executive committee with the larger FIFA Council, which has 37 members.

CIFA is among the smallest of FIFA's 211 member associations and has been a member since 1994.

A member of the decision-making FIFA Council has been banned for three months and fined 20,000 Swiss francs ($19,906) for breaching rules on the resale of World Cup tickets, the global soccer body said on Thursday.

A member of the decision-making FIFA Council has been banned for three months and fined 20,000 Swiss francs ($19,906) for breaching rules on the resale of World Cup tickets, the global soccer body said on Thursday. FIFA said that Lee Harmon, president of the Cook Islands Football Association (CIFA), had "mutually agreed" the sanction with its ethics committee in a plea bargain following an investigation which began in July, shortly after the World Cup in Russia. FIFA said the investigation concerned the resale of tickets for the tournament but did not give further details. It did not immediately reply to a request for additional information. Harmon, who could not immediately be reached for comment, has been CIFA president since 1997 and a FIFA Council member since 2016. His biography on the FIFA Council website says he has been a match commissioner and referee assessor at various FIFA tournaments and international matches. FIFA has been trying to root out corruption and unethical conduct after several dozen soccer officials were indicted in the United States in 2015, plunging the global soccer body into the worst crisis in its history. One of the measures was to replace the old executive committee with the larger FIFA Council, which has 37 members. CIFA is among the smallest of FIFA's 211 member associations and has been a member since 1994.

FIFA Council member banned over resale of World Cup tickets

FIFA confirmed on Tuesday that English Premier League club Chelsea have appealed against a <a href="http://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-bans-chelsea-for-next-two-transfer-windows-over-under-age-signings-198956">transfer ban imposed</a> after they were found guilty of breaching rules on overseas players under the age of 18.

The London side, banned from the next two transfer windows and also fined 600,000 Swiss francs ($600,000), had already said they would appeal against the decision taken by FIFA's disciplinary committee last month.

FIFA said in a statement that it could not give a schedule for the process, nor say whether the ban would be lifted pending the appeal hearing.

"Any decision on the sanction remaining in place during the appeal process is to be taken by the chairman of the FIFA Appeal Committee," it said.

FIFA confirmed on Tuesday that English Premier League club Chelsea have appealed against a transfer ban imposed after they were found guilty of breaching rules on overseas players under the age of 18.

FIFA confirmed on Tuesday that English Premier League club Chelsea have appealed against a transfer ban imposed after they were found guilty of breaching rules on overseas players under the age of 18. The London side, banned from the next two transfer windows and also fined 600,000 Swiss francs ($600,000), had already said they would appeal against the decision taken by FIFA's disciplinary committee last month. FIFA said in a statement that it could not give a schedule for the process, nor say whether the ban would be lifted pending the appeal hearing. "Any decision on the sanction remaining in place during the appeal process is to be taken by the chairman of the FIFA Appeal Committee," it said.

FIFA confirm Chelsea appeal against transfer ban

FIFA has recommended the use of video assistant referee (VAR) technology for the 2019 Women's World Cup in France this year.

The organising committee of world soccer's governing body met on Monday and backed the use of VAR at the tournament after it was introduced at the men's World Cup last year in Russia.

The FIFA council will make a final decision on whether the technology will be used at this year's women's event, which runs from June 7-July 7, when it meets in Miami later this month.

"I can’t see them not having (VAR), I think it would be a little bit insulting if we weren't afforded the same opportunity (as the men)," U.S. coach Jill Ellis said in July.

The technology, which is operating in most of the leading European soccer leagues, has been used in the Champions League knockout stage for the first time this season.

The English Premier League plans to use VAR next season.

FIFA has recommended the use of video assistant referee (VAR) technology for the 2019 Women's World Cup in France this year. The organising committee of world soccer's governing body met on Monday and backed the use of VAR at the tournament after it was introduced at the men's World Cup last year in Russia.

FIFA has recommended the use of video assistant referee (VAR) technology for the 2019 Women's World Cup in France this year. The organising committee of world soccer's governing body met on Monday and backed the use of VAR at the tournament after it was introduced at the men's World Cup last year in Russia. The FIFA council will make a final decision on whether the technology will be used at this year's women's event, which runs from June 7-July 7, when it meets in Miami later this month. "I can’t see them not having (VAR), I think it would be a little bit insulting if we weren't afforded the same opportunity (as the men)," U.S. coach Jill Ellis said in July. The technology, which is operating in most of the leading European soccer leagues, has been used in the Champions League knockout stage for the first time this season. The English Premier League plans to use VAR next season.

FIFA recommends use of VAR at 2019 Women's World Cup

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said on Wednesday that football’s governing body will consider changing the rules over the transfer of minors after Premier League Chelsea were hit with a transfer ban.

Chelsea were banned last week from signing anyone in the next two transfer windows after being found guilty of breaching FIFA’s rules relating to signing overseas players under the age of 18.

FIFA's rules say players aged 18 or under can only be transferred abroad if one of three criteria are met: if their parents emigrated for non-footballing reasons, both clubs are in the EU or European Economic Area and the player is aged between 16 and 18 or the player lives within 100km of the new club.

Clubs like Barcelona, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid have also received transfer bans in recent years after falling foul of the rules and Infantino, speaking at a news conference in Rome, said the regulations should be subjected to renewed scrutiny.

“There are rules, regulations, whether we like them or not they have to be respected as long as they are there,” he said.

“Otherwise if we don’t like them we need to change them... Maybe we should raise the minimum age all over Europe, or we should allow certain exceptions based on certain clear criteria, for young boys or girls to be able to have good training conditions in other parts, but protecting the minors.

“This is our main priority so it is certainly an area that we have to look into and continue looking into in the future as well."

Infantino, who was elected in February 2016, also said that FIFA intends to review regulations over the activity of football agents.

“We are planning to revisit the regulations governing agents because we feel it’s necessary to fine-tune those rules,” he said.

“Today the economic flow involved in transfers is about 8 billion euros ($9.10 billion) a year without considering the money paid to the footballers.

“So I think it would only be fair for those involved in these transfers to be regulated, their profession clearly needs to be governed. All other professions are governed and disciplined in Italy and throughout the world so why not them?"

Infantino said agents were subjected to tighter rules in the United States.

“Look at what happens in the USA. Often the USA is taken as an example but the USA is the homeland of the free market of laissez-faire. Everything is open, people do whatever they want. But these professions are regulated in a very stringent way.

“You’ve got huge volumes and books that govern transfers and changes in clubs and agents. We’ve got these slim booklets here in Europe and in FIFA so we’ve got a bit of work to do.

“We are talking about this with everyone – with clubs, leagues, federations and football players and agents. Hopefully this year we’ll be able to propose measures to further regulate this activity to protect everyone: footballers, clubs and agents themselves.”

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said on Wednesday that football’s governing body will consider changing the rules over the transfer of minors after Premier League Chelsea were hit with a transfer ban.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino said on Wednesday that football’s governing body will consider changing the rules over the transfer of minors after Premier League Chelsea were hit with a transfer ban. Chelsea were banned last week from signing anyone in the next two transfer windows after being found guilty of breaching FIFA’s rules relating to signing overseas players under the age of 18. FIFA's rules say players aged 18 or under can only be transferred abroad if one of three criteria are met: if their parents emigrated for non-footballing reasons, both clubs are in the EU or European Economic Area and the player is aged between 16 and 18 or the player lives within 100km of the new club. Clubs like Barcelona, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid have also received transfer bans in recent years after falling foul of the rules and Infantino, speaking at a news conference in Rome, said the regulations should be subjected to renewed scrutiny. “There are rules, regulations, whether we like them or not they have to be respected as long as they are there,” he said. “Otherwise if we don’t like them we need to change them... Maybe we should raise the minimum age all over Europe, or we should allow certain exceptions based on certain clear criteria, for young boys or girls to be able to have good training conditions in other parts, but protecting the minors. “This is our main priority so it is certainly an area that we have to look into and continue looking into in the future as well." Infantino, who was elected in February 2016, also said that FIFA intends to review regulations over the activity of football agents. “We are planning to revisit the regulations governing agents because we feel it’s necessary to fine-tune those rules,” he said. “Today the economic flow involved in transfers is about 8 billion euros ($9.10 billion) a year without considering the money paid to the footballers. “So I think it would only be fair for those involved in these transfers to be regulated, their profession clearly needs to be governed. All other professions are governed and disciplined in Italy and throughout the world so why not them?" Infantino said agents were subjected to tighter rules in the United States. “Look at what happens in the USA. Often the USA is taken as an example but the USA is the homeland of the free market of laissez-faire. Everything is open, people do whatever they want. But these professions are regulated in a very stringent way. “You’ve got huge volumes and books that govern transfers and changes in clubs and agents. We’ve got these slim booklets here in Europe and in FIFA so we’ve got a bit of work to do. “We are talking about this with everyone – with clubs, leagues, federations and football players and agents. Hopefully this year we’ll be able to propose measures to further regulate this activity to protect everyone: footballers, clubs and agents themselves.”

FIFA to re-examine transfer rules for minors: Gianni Infantino

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