'There’s nothing in this world that I love more than soccer. Please let me play.' via AP
In this Wednesday, Dec. 11, 2019 photo, Sudanese al-Difaa, in yellow, and al-Sumood women teams play in Omdurman, Khartoum's twin city, Sudan. The women's soccer league has become a field of contention as Sudan grapples with the transition from three decades of authoritarian rule that espoused a strict interpretation of Islamic Shariah law.
Transitional authorities have taken some steps to roll back the legacy of ousted President Omar al-Bashir. In November, they overturned a notorious “public order” law that the prime minister said had been used as a “tool of exploitation, humiliation,” resulting in “atrocities” against women and youth. Rights defenders call it a step in the right direction, but say the fight is far from over.
He also denounced the youth and sports minister, a woman, saying she “doesn’t believe in what we believe in” and is a follower of “an apostate” — comments that sparked a legal battle between him and the minister. Yousif and his supporters “tend to occupy the most uncompromising end of the religious spectrum in Sudan.”
Preparations for the league began more than a year ago in line with the objectives of the international soccer federation FIFA, said Mervat Hussein, head of the women’s soccer committee at the Sudan Football Association. The efforts accelerated after al-Bashir’s removal, she said. FIFA, which sets criteria for developing women’s soccer, says member associations have objectives to meet to obtain funding.
Al-Difaa player Fatima Gadal said in the past players sometimes used their own money to buy balls and gear. At times, she skipped buying food to afford bus fare to go play. “We were very much so on the margins.” On the field, most players wear leggings under their shorts, but otherwise are in regular soccer kit, and many don’t cover their hair.
Brasil Últimas Notícias, Brasil Manchetes
Similar News:Você também pode ler notícias semelhantes a esta que coletamos de outras fontes de notícias.
Children among 18 killed in Sudan military plane crash - armyThe plane crashed five minutes after takeoff from an airport in the state capital El Geneina, after delivering aid to the area, which had been hit by recent deadly tribal fighting.
Consulte Mais informação »
Jameela Jamil Cancels Candace Owens Podcast Interview for 'Inciting Hatred' with Trans CommentsThe conservative commentator claims she was banned for tweeting 'only women can give birth', as the liberal host accuses her of bullying and hatred.
Consulte Mais informação »
Soccer Superstar Franck Ribery Gets $120k Rolex From Wife, Happy New Year!International soccer superstar Franck Ribery is ringing in the new year in style
Consulte Mais informação »
Everything worth buying this January (and all the stuff you should stay away from)Now's the time to finally book that vacation you've always dreamed of.
Consulte Mais informação »
Margot Robbie Studied Conservative Twitter for Her Role in 'Bombshell'She created a fake account to observe 'young millennial conservative girls' while researching for her role.
Consulte Mais informação »