"Ukraine are the home side but are playing in Turkey because of the war with Russia. Sarina Wiegman, the England manager, says her side are in close contact with the UK government regarding their safety amid the conflict that rages nearby. A 32-team festival of joy and global co-operation feels hallucinogenic right now."
"England find themselves in a group with Ukraine, Iceland and Spain. The team that finishes top qualifies directly; the others will have to enter the playoffs. The main show, undoubtedly, will be the battle between the world champions and Euro winners."
England commences their European qualifiers for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil with a match against Ukraine in Antalya, Turkey. Ukraine plays as the home side but cannot host matches in their country due to the ongoing war with Russia. England manager Sarina Wiegman confirms the team maintains close contact with the UK government regarding safety concerns given the nearby conflict. England's qualifying group includes Ukraine, Iceland, and Spain, with the group winner advancing directly to the World Cup while other teams enter playoffs. The fixture highlights the challenges of organizing international football amid global conflict, contrasting sharply with the intended spirit of global cooperation that the World Cup represents.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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