馃嚫馃嚦SenegalWest Africa
FIFA introduces new pre-match ceremony format for World Cup
via SeneNews1 min read
FIFA has announced a new pre-match ceremony format for the upcoming World Cup, significantly altering traditional protocols. The change aims to introduce an unprecedented visual and symbolic dimension, uniting teams and supporters in a patriotic display before kickoff. Instead of the previous two parallel lines, both teams, including starters and substitutes, will now gather in a circle within their respective halves of the field. Additionally, during the national anthems, two large flags will be unfurled on each side of the pitch, enhancing the patriotic presentation before the match begins. This unprecedented overhaul is expected to elicit reactions from players, fans, and football observers worldwide.
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by SeneNews.
Must ReadA reconstructive surgery mission for victims of female genital mutilation FGM has been underway at Abass Ndao Hospital in Dakar since July 17, 2026. This initiative, led by Senegalese medical teams in collaboration with an Ivorian charity, has already provided free surgical care to 50 women in just three days. Dr. Raymond Alipio, chief physician of the maternity ward at Abass Ndao Hospital, stated that 50 patients underwent surgery between Friday, July 17, and Sunday, July 19, with interventions continuing until Friday, July 24, 2026. This campaign is part of a broader program by the hospital to provide long-term support to FGM victims, aiming to treat between 350 and 450 patients annually. The full cost of care for one patient is estimated at 253,000 FCFA, covering consultations, medical examinations, surgery, hospitalization, and treatments. In addition to medical care, psychological and sexological support is provided by specialists across the country. Program leaders are appealing to partners, donors, associations, and international institutions for financial support to help more women rebuild their lives.
Must ReadItalian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has called for a thorough investigation into the death of Abderrahim Fakir, a 42-year-old Moroccan man who died in Bologna after being pinned to the ground during an arrest. Meloni stated that "the truth must be sought to the end, without prejudice or complacency for anyone," while also condemning the violence that erupted during a protest in Bologna. The prosecutor of Bologna has opened an inquiry into Fakir's death, which occurred after he was held in a prone position for several minutes. The investigation targets two police officers and four paramedics. Footage from a resident reportedly shows Fakir calling for help while being restrained by officers, with paramedics present. He later appeared unresponsive. Police reported they intervened after residents reported a man in a "violent rage." A protest in central Bologna on Monday evening drew thousands, resulting in 64 police officers and eleven demonstrators being injured. Further demonstrations are planned in other Italian cities. Interior Minister Matteo Piantedosi urged waiting for the investigation's conclusions, asserting that "no one is above the law."
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