Most recent articles by John Duerden
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     Soccer in Yemen Soccer in YemenYemen's young footballers give the country hopeLittle football has been played in war-torn Yemen since 2014. Yet with the ceasefire holding and the Under-17s narrowly missing World Cup qualification, the beautiful game could help bring some joy and unity to a divided country. By John Duerden 
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     Saudi-Iran deal Saudi-Iran dealNew hope for football in the Middle EastThe re-establishment of diplomatic relations between Saudi Arabia and Iran in March surprised many around the world. If relations improve, the hope is that football in both countries and the wider region will benefit. John Duerden reports 
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     Women’s football in Morocco Women’s football in MoroccoJump-starting women's football in the Arab worldThe Women's Africa Cup this year in Morocco was a resounding success. The Moroccan team was the first Arab women's football team to qualify for a World Cup. By John Duerden 
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     Middle East conflict impacts soccer Middle East conflict impacts soccerPalestine's football dreams take a batteringWhen it comes to talent, Palestine may well be able to compete with other football teams in the region, but growth and development are hampered by the situation in the Palestinian territories. The explosion of violence between Israel and Hamas in May seriously disrupted preparations for the World Cup qualifiers. John Duerden reports