Article

2003-11-23 Afghanistan

World Cup soccer returns to Afghanistan, supplanting former execution ground

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Posted by TS 2003-11-23 2:57:14 PM|| || Front Page|| [5 views since 2007-05-07] Top

#1 Still, there is something not right about playing soccer over the spot where people died in horrific ways. Soccer being so popular in Europe, you'd think some European country would help build a new field (doesn't have to be a stadium).

Posted by Rafael 2003-11-23 4:18:38 PM|| 2003-11-23 4:18:38 PM|| Front Page Top

#2 Rafael, I am comforatable with whatever the Afghans decide. Between unexploded ordanance, mines and hallowed ground there wouldn't be much place left for folks to walk in that country. I'm with you; I would make the place a historic stie or plow it under. I don't claim to understand their culture in the slightest, though. Glad to see them watching sports. I'll be more comfortable when we get rid of the poppy fields and get our troops the hell out of there.

Posted by Super Hose 2003-11-23 6:55:37 PM|| 2003-11-23 6:55:37 PM|| Front Page Top

#3 Actually, the stadium was built with European funds. The article is partially correct. Cheering and chanting as such were prohibited but fans were allowed to greet goals with "Allah Akbar!"

I agree with Super Hose that there really isn't anywhere in that poor country that isn't touched by tragedy. Soccer may reclaim that piece of ground for the saner, more civilized elements of Afghani society.

I'm really happy to read that story. Go get 'em, Lions!

Posted by JDB 2003-11-23 7:37:40 PM|| 2003-11-23 7:37:40 PM|| Front Page Top

#4 This is really cool. No matter where the place. This is a huge change for the Afghan people. .Too bad it won't appear in any Media reports -- no body bags :(...

A quick scan of BBC and CNN... Nothing....

Posted by CrazyFool 2003-11-23 8:32:12 PM|| 2003-11-23 8:32:12 PM|| Front Page Top

#5 I understand your feelings, Rafael, but another way to view this is that the Afghanis are refusing to allow the Taliban to own that site. By reclaiming the stadium for soccer, the Afghani people are repudiating all of the repression the Taliban fostered.

Posted by rkb 2003-11-23 10:45:05 PM|| 2003-11-23 10:45:05 PM|| Front Page Top

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