JAMES NALTON celebrates Ruben Blades’s song Patria – played before Panama’s game against Ghana — a song inspiring hope instead of hate
FIFA’s anti-discrimination advisers are warning gay football fans going to the 2018 World Cup in Russia that displays of affection could be met with an aggressive response from bigots.
As fans prepare their trips after tomorrow’s World Cup draw, the Fare network said it will produce a guide spelling out the threats to be prepared for in Russia.
“The guide will advise gay people to be cautious in any place which is not seen to be welcoming to the LGBT community,” Fare executive director Piara Powar said.
ROGER McKENZIE explains why he can’t support this year’s World Cup
Joao Pedro’s emotional goals against Fluminense captured the magic of an international club competition. But even as fans bring colour and passion, the Club World Cup’s deeper issues loom large, writes JAMES NALTON


