Soccer

According to the Spanish sports outlet, Iran is set to participate in the tournament, which will be co‑hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

When Beitar Jerusalem started to score, score, and score some more this week at Maccabi Netanya, you could feel that the floodgates had opened and there was history in the making.

Elsewhere, Hapoel Petah Tikva slipped by Maccabi Haifa 1-0 as Mamady Diarra scored the lone goal of the match in the 59th minute to take the points and stay in the Championship Playoff picture.

The boss of global soccer's governing body, who is also an IOC member, took part in Thursday's meeting of the Board of Peace, which is focusing on reconstruction work in Gaza.

In addition, Maccabi Haifa and Beersheba secure wins while Beitar honors former hostage Elkana Bohbot before a goalless draw with Maccabi Tel Aviv.

Hapoel Tel Aviv hosted 11-year-old supporter Noam Shilian at training, offering a special moment of connection as he continues rehabilitation from a rare pain condition.

Ireland and Israel will face each other in September and November 2026, home and away. The FAI had requested in November 2025 that Israel be expelled from UEFA competitions.

The pitch, the IDF Central Command claimed, sat too close to the seam zone, alleging that the structure and its occupants provided an observation point too sensitive for its volatile location.

Late headers, big saves, and packed stadiums highlight a dramatic week in the Israeli Premier League.

Soccer serves as a tool of soft power, and through partnerships with African soccer federations, Rabat has deepened its influence.