World Cup trophy put on display in Ramallah.

SCRIPTING INFORMATION:

The FIFA World Cup arrived on Sunday (10th November) to the West Bank city of Ramallah.

The golden trophy is going on a tour around the world and is scheduled to visit 90 countries during its 267-day duration.

The cup has already been on display in the Caribbean before reaching the Middle East for the first time.

Ramallah, Palestine - 10th November 2013

1. 00:00 Wide shot of Palestinian Football Association president Jibril Rajoub and other officials uncovering the World Cup

2. 00:10 Mid shot of same

3. 00:16 Various of trophy

4. 00:25 SOUNDBITE (English) Palestinian Football Association president Jibril Rajoub:

"It is an eminence honour and joy for the Palestinian people and for the Palestinian football family to have the World Cup here in Palestine. I think it is a clear cut message to the international community by FIFA that Palestinian sport entity is existing and deserve support and protection from the Israeli occupation."

5. 00:53 Rajoub with officials taking picture near cup

Palestine and the United Arab Emirates prepare for for their World Cup qualifier.

SCRIPTING INFORMATION:

The Palestine national football team are preparing to host their first ever World Cup qualifier on Tuesday, as their team takes on the United Arab Emirates in the first in a series of high-profile matches in the West Bank.

The UAE national team arrived in the West Bank city of Ramallah on Sunday (6th September) to play a 2018 World Cup qualifier against Palestine.

The match will take place at the Faisal Al Husseini Stadium in the West Bank town of Al Ram on Tuesday, the first competitive tie to be played by the Palestine senior national side in their homeland.

On Monday, The UAE conducted a training session at the Faisal Al Husseini Stadium, which holds 12,500 fans and has an artificial-turf pitch. The match is scheduled for the following evening with a kick-off time of 1400 GMT.

Jibril Rajoub, the head of the Palestine Football Association, described the match in Group A of the Asian Zone qualifiers as "historic".

The UAE opened their qualifying campaign in June with a 1-0 victory against East Timor. They are currently third in Group A, level on three points with top-placed Palestine and second-place Saudi Arabia.

Palestine, who defeated Malaysia 6-0 also in June, have played one match more.

SNTV

Ramalah Al -Ram, West Bank. 6th and 7th September 2015.

1. 00:00 Wide of the United Arab Emirates football team arriving at Faisal Al Husseini Stadium in the West Bank town of Al Ram.

2. 00:09 Various of the United Arab Emirates football team players getting out of the bus

SNTV

Ramallah, West Bank. 7th September 2015

3. 00:31 Wide of press conference of the Palestinian football team coach Nour El-Din Walad Ali .

4. 00:36 SOUNDBITE (Arabic) Nour El-Din Walad Ali, Palestine coach:

"First, I welcome our brothers, the Emirates team, to Palestine and I hope we will have a big celebration because the Palestinians need to celebrate. For the game, we have prepared ourselves well for it. In our group, we have five teams that will play and only two teams will qualify for the finals and I hope we will be one of the teams that reach the finals of the World Cup."

5. 01:13 Cutaway cameraman

6. 01:18 Wide of press conference with Mahdi Ali, coach of the United Arab Emirates team

7. 01:23 SOUNDBITE (Arabic) Mahdi Ali, United Arab Emirates coach

"Sport aims to unite people and to bring freedom at a time when each nation has the right to live in peace in his homeland. We are very happy to come here and to stand with our brothers the Palestinians as the first Arabic football team to visit in an official game."

SNTV

Al-Ram, West Bank. 7th September 2015

8. 01:50 Various of the United Arab Emirates squad training at Faisal Al Husseini Stadium in the West Bank town of Al Ram

SNTV

Ramallah, West Bank. 6th September 2015

9. 02:40 Establishing shot of Jibril Rajoub, the head of the Palestine Football Association, entering press conference

10. 02:49 SOUNDBITE (Arabic) Jibril Rajoub, Palestine Football Association chief:

"It's the first time in Palestinian history the we hosted a football match in the World Cup qualifiers and the Asian Zone qualifiers on Palestinian land and under the Palestinian flag with the Palestinian national anthem. It's an historic moment."

SNTV

Al-Ram, West Bank. 7th September 2015

11. 03:22 Various of the the United Arab Emirates football team at Faisal Al Husseini Stadium in the West Bank town of Al Ram

Reaction from Al-Sharjah Stadium after ten-man Palestine salvaged a goalless draw against Syria in Group B of the AFC Asian Cup on Sunday.

Syria dominated proceedings but just couldn't put the ball into the back of the net.

Palestine were down to ten men in the 69th minute when Muhammed Saleh received a second yellow card.

Syria didn't capitalise on the advantage as it ended 0-0, an important point earned for the Palestinians.

Al-Sharjah Stadium, Sharjah, UAE - 6th January 2019.

1. 00:00 Palestine captain Abdalltif Al Bahdari enters press room

2. 00:09 SOUNDBITE (Arabic): Noureddine Ould Ali, Palestine head coach:

"We have built something from this match. We wanted to do some changes during the match today, but things happened and forced us not to do so when we were given three yellow cards and a red card, so our plan changed, and we could not make any substitutions."

3. 00:55 SOUNDBITE (English): Bernd Stange, Syria head coach:

"You have always the same problem if you face teams who are defending with ten players, or at least nine, they are staying very very compact. How can you run with big speed in this group of players? The only result you will achieve are counter-attacks, and maybe an easy goal for the opponents. It's very very difficult to play this kind of teams and I think we tried everything to come over the wings, to open, to come behind the defenders."

4. 01:26 Palestine defender Muhammed Saleh in mixed zone

5. 01:30 SOUNDBITE (Arabic): Muhammed Saleh, Palestine defender:

(About the red card he was shown)

"Our ambition was to win and have the three points so we could please our people. I am sorry for the sending off, it was the wrong decision, 100 per cent the decision was not right, and the referee took a fast decision, he could have made a better decision, and the video is there to see."

6. 02:00 Palestine defender Musab Battat talking with reporters in mixed zone

3. 02:03 SOUNDBITE (Arabic): Musab Battat, Palestine Defender:

"Every match has its own situations, and for the next match we will see the instructions of the coaching staff and perform their plan."

7. 02:19 SOUNDBITE (Arabic): Tamer Seyam, Palestine midfielder:

"I was expecting our team to win, because we played a good game, but the sending of affected us. We could have done better, but we are happy, we played well with ten men, and I think the result was good."

8. 02:49 SOUNDBITE (Arabic): Tamer Seyam, Palestine midfielder:

"I think today's football have a lot of surprises, and we saw in the World Cup that teams left early. Palestine cane be a surprise in this Asian Cup. We have to finish the group stage and the next match will be against Australia and we will do all we can to qualify."

9. 03:09 SOUNDBITE (Arabic): Abdalltif Al Bahdari, Palestine captain:

"All the players today were real men. We managed to close the spaces in the midfield as I told you yesterday. We managed to get one point, and today we played in the second-half for 30 minutes with ten men and we managed to cover the absence, and I hope we can correct our mistakes in the second match against Australia."

10. 03:44 SOUNDBITE (Arabic): Abdalltif Al Bahdari, Palestine captain:

"For sure Australia are one of the best teams, and the defending champions, so I hope we can perform at our best."

SOURCE: SNTV

DURATION: 03:56

Saudi Arabia head coach, Herve Renard, said on Monday that his side's Group D 2022 World Cup Asian qualifier against Palestine, in Palestine, on Tuesday is "a historic game."

"It's a pleasure for us to be in Palestine for this game. Football needs to be like that," added Renard, who led Morocco to the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

In the past, national teams from the Arab world have refused to play in the Occupied Palestinian Territories as it involved requesting permits from the Israeli government, a country they do not officially recognise.

This move has been widely seen as a sign that Saudi Arabia have begun normalising relations with the Israeli state.  

But for Palestinian players this means they can finally play on home soil against teams from the Arab world.

"It's great for our fans to see their national team play at home. This is how it should be for us Palestinians," said Palestine defender Abdelatif Bahdari.

Al-Ram, West Bank, Occupied Palestinian Territory. 14th October 2019.

1. 00:00 Saudi Arabia head coach Herve Renard arrives for presser

2. 00:07 Presser

3. 00:17 SOUNDBITE (English): Herve Renard, Saudi Arabia head coach:

"It's a pleasure for us to be in Palestine for this game. Football needs to be like that and it's of course a historic game so it will be a very tough game. First of all because Palestine beat Uzbekistan in this group (Group D) already. So the level of this team is very good. We know tomoroe it won't be easy. It will be a tough game but we'll be ready for this important game."

4. 01:03 Journalists

5. 01:08 Presser

6. 01:13 Renard leaves presser

7. 01:19 Palestine presser with head coach Noureddine Ould Ali and defender Abdelatif Bahdari

8. 01:24 SOUNDBITE (Arabic): Abdelatif Bahdari, Palestine defender:

"We as players are happy to play on home soil in front of our fans. It's great for our fans to see their national team play at home. This is how it should be for us Palestinians. This is a Saudi team that has played in the World Cup previously, and their presence here is testament to our right to play in our home ground."

9. 01:49 Presser

10. 01:54 Exterior shots of Millennium Palestine Ramallah, where the presser was held

Palestine speak ahead of their World Cup qualifier in Jordan against Saudi Arabia on Sunday (8th November).

SCRIPTING INFORMATION:

Saudi Arabia manager Bert van Marwijk spoke to the press in the Jordanian capital, Amman, on Sunday for Monday's (9th November) World Cup qualifying match against Palestine.

The teams played in Jeddah in June in the first of their two scheduled Asia zone World Cup qualifiers, with the Saudis winning 3-2.

The match in Amman was originally supposed to be played in Palestine, but Saudi Arabia had refused to travel to the Israeli-occupied West Bank.

Saudi Arabia top group A with 12 points after four matches, while Palestine are third with five points.

Amman, Jordan 8th November 2015

1. 00.00 SOUNDBITE (Arabic) Abdel Naser Barakat, Palestine's National team Manager:

"Everybody knows the difficulties we are facing. We try however in difficult situations to do our best to bring happiness to the Palestinian people. We are aware that the match will be very difficult but we will depend on the Palestinian will to face those difficulties."

2. 00.25 SOUNDBITE (Arabic) Abdel Naser Barakat, Palestine's National team Manager:

"We will miss Mathias (Jaduehawa) because he received two yellow cards. Mohammed Eid and Mosaab Al Battat will also be absent through injury. We have enough players in the team to replace them."

3. 00.47 SOUNDBITE: (Arabic) Abdel Al-latef Al-Bahdawi, Palestine's National team captain:

"Tomorrow's match is crucial match for us. Winning the match will put us in a good position to compete with Saudi Arabia and UAE for the lead. We will do our best to win the match tomorrow. Our morale is very high. We are not suffering of any injuries to mention. I say again tomorrow's match is crucial. It will give us the chance of competing with Saudi Arabia and UAE."

4. 01.12 Barakat and Al-Bahdawi walk out of presser

Palestinians flocked to see the FIFA 2018 World Cup trophy at the weekend (17th/18th February) as it continued its promotional tour before this summer's tournament in Russia.

SCRIPTING INFORMATION:

The FIFA 2018 World Cup trophy landed in Ramallah on Saturday (17th February) as part of its ongoing world tour.

Fans were able to see the famous gold-plated hand and ball which will be awarded to the winner in Russia in July.

Palestine, which was officially recognised by FIFA in 1998, has yet to qualify for the World Cup, but that did not stop fans queuing up to view the iconic trophy.

The nation's first major title was the 2014 AFC Challenge Cup, and Palestine have also qualified for the 2019 Asian Cup.

The trophy's world tour kicked off in Russia in September 2017 and will take in more than 50 countries across six continents before it concludes in the Russian city of Vladivostok on 1st May.

Ramallah, West Bank. 17th/18th February 2018.

1. 00:00 Various of reception for World Cup trophy tour

2. 00:20 Close up of trophy

3. 00:23 Mid of reception

4. 00:26 SOUNDBITE (Arabic): Heni Thlajieh, FIFA representative:

"Sport brings people closer to whatever their nationality, regardless of their differences and social class. Ultimately, football brings people together in one place for one hope and one goal, and we hope that Palestine will one day qualify and play in the World Cup."

5. 00:45 Palestinians flock to see trophy

6. 01:32 SOUNDBITE (Arabic): Majdi Al-Qasim, Palestinian visitor:

"There are many teams that could win the World Cup. I think that the Brazil, Germany and Spain teams are the strongest candidates, although I think Brazil has the best chance."

7. 01:43 Visitors viewing the trophy

8. 02:01 SOUNDBITE (Arabic): Sajida Switi, Palestinian visitor:

I hope there will be more opportunities in the future for Arab teams to win the World Cup. Four Arab teams will be competing in the World Cup in Russia. As an Arab myself, I hope that an Arab team will be crowned champions this year. Nothing is impossible in football, everything is possible."

9. 02:18 Visitors taking photographs with the trophy

10. 02:33 SOUNDBITE (Arabic): Ibrahim Jawad, Palestinian visitor:

"It will be difficult for a Palestine team to participate in the World Cup in 2022, but by 2026 there may be a new format that increases the number of participating teams, which might give Palestine a chance to participate at the World Cup in 2026."

11. 02:47 Exterior of Coca Cola building where event was held

SOURCE: SNTV

DURATION: 02:58

Saudi Arabia speak and train ahead of their World Cup qualifier in Jordan against Palestine on Sunday (8th November).

SCRIPTING INFORMATION:

Saudi Arabia manager Bert van Marwijk spoke to the press in the Jordanian capital, Amman, on Sunday for Monday's (9th November) World Cup qualifying match against Palestine.

The teams played in Jeddah in June in the first of their two scheduled Asia zone World Cup qualifiers, with the Saudis winning 3-2.

The match in Amman was originally supposed to be played in Palestine, but Saudi Arabia had refused to travel to the Israeli-occupied West Bank.

Saudi Arabia top group A with 12 points after four matches, while Palestine are third with five points.

Amman, Jordan, 8th November 2015

1. 00.00 Various of training

2. 01.36 SOUNDBITE (English) Bert van Marwijk, Saudi Arabia Coach:

"I am not used to have such a short preparation, its a pity that we knew a few days ago that we play here, I couldn't change it, so we prepare as good as possible and we started two days ago with our preparation and will do everything to prepare in the way so we can play good football like the last games."

3. 02.10 SOUNDBITE (English) Bert van Marwijk, Saudi Arabia Coach:

"I only concentrate - I am a coach of a football team - so I will concentrate only on the game. That's the most important thing, I try to prepare my team as good as possible, everything else is up to FIFA so I can not change things, I will not, I am here to play football and that's the only thing."

4. 02.39 Cutaway.

5. 02.47 SOUNDBITE (English) Bert van Marwijk, Saudi Arabia Coach:

"I don't think my players feel stress but we know it will be a very difficult game, as was the game in Saudi Arabia that we won 3-2 in extra time, that says something about the strength of the Palestines, and we analysed the team of Palestine well and we know what to expect and we respect the Palestines, we know it will be very, very difficult but we are also a good team and I trust my team."

6. 03.21 SOUNDBITE (Arabic) Osama Hawsawi, Captain of Saudi Arabia:

"This is a very important match for us. Winning it will confirm our lead and put us five points ahead (of the nearest rival in the group). It is not going to be an easy match. The Palestinian team improved tremendously in the last few years. We have great respect for this team, but we as players have one aim which is to win the three points."

The Palestinian football squad prepare to face Saudi Arabia in Group A in the second round of the 2018 World Cup qualifiers, as well as 2019 Asian Cup.

SCRIPTING INFORMATION:

40 teams divided into eight groups will battle it out starting next weekend to advance to the third round of FIFA World Cup qualification, as well as qualify for the 2019 Asian Cup as a result.

Group winners and the four best group runners-up will be the nations celebrating at the end of this round.

On Saturday (11th June), Palestine will travel to Jeddah in Saudi Arabia for the original home game.

The head of the Palestinian FA, Jibril Rajoub, says although the decision was made to take the home game to the Kingdom, they are determined to play the return leg at home in their new stadium.

Group A also features the UAE, Timor-Leste and Malaysia.

West Bank, Palestine. 8th June, 2015.

1. 00:00 Exteriors of the Palestinian football FA

2. 00:12 SOUNDBITE: (Arabic) Jibril Rajoub, Palestinian FA chairman:

"We agreed to our Saudi brothers' demands under conditions that we swap home and away, on this basis we contacted FIFA and I think the Saudis also contacted FIFA with this spirit - and we are determined to play one leg at home."

3. 00:35 Various shots of Palestinian team at training.

4. 00:51 Close-up of head coach Abdel Nasser Barakat .

5. 00 55 Various of training.

6. 01:07 SOUNDBITE: (Arabic) Abdel Nasser Barakat, head coach:

"We hope to achieve a positive result, despite the fact we all know the Saudi team. In football, you have to believe in your chances regardless of the opponent, so we always have chances if we believed in them. I hope to put in a good display for the Palestinian people."

7. 01:29 Various of training.

8. 01:53 SOUNDBITE: (Arabic) Ahmed Maajnah, player:

"Of course, we would like to play in a more cooler conditions because this helps players, despite the hot conditions in Saudi Arabia. We are today in Jericho and the weather is the same as in Saudi Arabia. We are ready for the game and, God-willing, we achieve our goal and get the win to bring happiness to the Palestinian fans."

9. 02:17 Various of training.

DURATION: 02:39.

Saudi Arabia trained on Monday ahead of their Group D 2022 World Cup Asian qualifier against Palestine, in Palestine, on Tuesday.

In the past, national teams from the Arab world have refused to play in the Occupied Palestinian Territories as it involved requesting permits from the Israeli government, a country they do not officially recognise.

This move has been widely seen as a sign that Saudi Arabia have begun normalising relations with the Israeli state.  

But for Palestinian players this means they can finally play on home soil against teams from the Arab world.

Al-Ram, West Bank, Occupied Palestinian Territory. 14th October 2019.

1. 00:00 Saudi Arabia training

Palestine will host Saudi Arabia in a 2018 World Cup qualifier on the fifth of November, the head of the Palestinian Football Association confirmed on Thursday (22nd October).

SCRIPTING INFORMATION:

The Palestinian national football team will host Saudi Arabia in World Cup qualifier match on the 5th of November, the head of the Palestinian Football Association confirmed on Thursday.

The two teams were meant to play each other on the Palestinian territory on 13th October - but the game was postponed after Saudi Arabia expressed concern over being subject to Israeli security checks in the West Bank.

Ramallah, West Bank. 22nd October, 2015.

1. 00:00 Wide shot of Jibril Rajoub, head of the Palestinian Football Association walking to podium.

2. 00:08 SOUNDBITE: (Arabic) Jibril Rajoub, head of the Palestinian Football Association:

"We have started preparing for the match on November the 5th in Palestine, we tell the Saudi brothers if you like, you are welcome, but if they don't like we cannot concede our home playground because this is one of sovereignty symbols."

3. 00:40 Cut away of flags.

4. 00:45 SOUNDBITE: (Arabic) Jibril Rajoub, head of the Palestinian Football Association:

"The Saudis have appealed to the FIFA, and we will welcome any decision taken by the FIFA, but please don't pressure us, either they agree or find a way to solve the problem of the three points (the one doesn't abide by the FIFA rule loses three points) - and we are ready to concede the three points in order to maintain our right in the home playground."

5. 01:20 Wide shot of palestinians holding Arabic banner reading: " The home stadium is a Palestinian right that cannot be wasted".

6. 01:25 Wide shot of press conference.

7. 01:28 End shot wide of Joseph Blatter academy in the west bank city of Ramallah where the press conference took place.

RESTRICTIONS: SNTV clients only. Scheduled news programmes only. Use within 14 days. If interested in archive use after 14 days please contact www.aparchive.com . Internet use only for SNTV clients with digital rights licensed in their contract. For any questions regarding rights restrictions please contact planning@sntv.com

SHOTLIST: Abu Dhabi, UAE. 23rd March 2016.

1. 00:00 Wide of UAE team meeting.

2. 00:05 Mid of UAE team meeting.

3. 00:10 Cutaway of UAE fans.

4. 00:15 Various of UAE team training.

5. 00:45 Mid of UAE striker Ali Mabkhout.

6. 00:49 Various of UAE captain Ismail Matar.

7. 01:03 Various of UAE goalkeeper training.

8. 01:18 Various of UAE team training.

9. 01:33 Wide of Palestine team meeting with the football association president.

10. 01:48 Various of Palestine team running.

11. 02:24 Mid of Palestine coach Abdel Nasser Barakat.

12. 02:30 Various of Palestine team trainings.

13. 02:49 Various of Palestine team goalkeeper training.

14. 03:06 Various of Palestine team training.

SOURCE: SNTV.

DURATION: 03:19.

STORYLINE:

Palestine and the United Arab Emirates were put through their paces in training on Wednesday (23rd March) ahead of Thursday's AFC Group A World Cup qualifier.

SCRIPTING INFORMATION:

In their previous World Cup qualifying encounter in September last year, Palestine and the United Arab Emirates played out a nil-nil draw, but a draw this time out in Abu Dhabi will do little for the fortunes of either team.

If Palestine draw, their dreams of World Qualification will be over, while the Emiratis need to pick up all three points in their matches against Palestine and group leaders Saudi Arabia on 29th March to progress to the third and final World Cup qualifying round.

The United Arab Emirates are likely to be without leading striker Ali Mabkhout who has a torn hamstring.

Post-match reaction after Ahmed Nayea scored a hat-trick to help Palestine storm to a 6-0 win over Malaysia in Group A of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Asian Qualifiers A on Thursday (12th November).

Post-match reaction after Ahmed Nayea scored a hat-trick to help Palestine storm to a 6-0 win over Malaysia in Group A of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Asian Qualifiers A on Thursday (12th November).

Amman International Stadium, Amman, Jordan. 12th November 2015.

1. 00.00 Palestinian team celebrating after the win

2. 00.27 SOUNDBITE (Arabic) Abdulateef Bahdari, Palestine player:

"I am happy with the result and the three points. It wasn't an easy match. We didn't have time to prepare after the Saudi game. We played very well in the first half today. We've got three points from these two matches. We dedicate the win to our fans who stood by us today."

3. 00.53 SOUNDBITE (Arabic) Ashraf Nouman, Palestine player:

"This is an important win. We dedicate the win to the Palestinian martyrs and to our people in Palestine and Jordan. We dedicate it to the fans of Al Wahdat FC in Jordan. We needed the points and we are happy with the result."

4. 01.24 SOUNDBITE (Arabic) Sameh Marabeh, Palestine player:

"Every football team likes to play at home and gets the support of the nation. We had to play in Jordan but we felt like we were at home. We didn't feel like we were playing away from home. Everybody here supported us."

5. 01.38 SOUNDBITE (Arabic) Noureldeen Weld Ali, Palestine manager:

"We did will to earn the three points. I was worried a bit after the game against Saudi, but the reaction was great. Our players were good and followed the instructions."

6. 01.38 SOUNDBITE (English) Ong Kim Swee, Malaysia manager:

"It is very hurting, but we can't think about the past. We have to look forward because we are playing UAE after four days in Kuala Lumpur, so now we need to improve whatever we need to do."

RESTRICTIONS: SNTV clients only. Scheduled news programmes only. Use within 14 days. If interested in archive use after 14 days please contact www.aparchive.com . Internet use only for SNTV clients with digital rights licensed in their contract. For any questions regarding rights restrictions please contact planning@sntv.com

SHOTLIST: Al-Ain, United Arab Emirates. 23rd March, 2016.

1. 00:00 Wide of Palestine press conference start.

2. 00:08 Cutaway cameraman.

3. 00:13 SOUNDBITE: (Arabic) Abdel Nasser Barakat, Palestine coach:

"Everyone knows that is a tough match but we have confidence and we have a chance - and we have a team capable of providing good levels in this match. Eventually, we are going to say congratulations to the winner, it is important to be honest competitors and provide a strong game worthy of the reputation of both teams."

4. 00:46 Cutaway journalists.

5. 00:51 Wide of Palestine press conference.

6. 00:57 SOUNDBITE: (Arabic) Abdelatif Bahdari, Palestine defender:

"This match is important for us as players and we hope we can provide a good level. It reflects our reputation and the reputation of Palestine - we came here only to win."

7. 01:19 Cutaway photographer.

8. 01:24 Wide of UAE team press conference start.

9. 01:31 Cutaway photographer.

10. 01:35 SOUNDBITE: (Arabic) Mahdi Ali, UAE coach:

"I hope that we are ready for this match because we don't have any other option - we just need to win. And all our focus is on the game. This game is in need of calm focus and patience for 90 minutes, and players will be responsible and I hope the presence of the fans will support the team."

11. 02:03 Cutaway cameraman.

12. 02:07 Wide of UAE team press conference.

13. 02:10 SOUNDBITE: (Arabic) Ismail Matar, UAE forward:

"Sure, we know the importance of the game and we hope to achieve tomorrow what is required of us in this match, and we are confident and we are determined to win."

14. 02.29 Mid of UAE team press conference.

15. 02.33 Cutaway journalists.

16. 02.37 SOUNDBITE: (Arabic) Mahdi Ali, UAE coach:

"The team who has 13 points has the opportunity to qualify as the best second-placed team. The Palestinian team hasn't a chance for that. We appreciate the Palestinian coach's declarations - and the aim is to encourage his players - and they want to provide a good level and this is a legitimate right."

17. 03.16 Cutaway photographer.

SOURCE: SNTV.

DURATION: 03:28.

STORYLINE:

The United Arab Emirates' quest to reach the 2018 World Cup continues, as they held a news conference in Al-Ain on Wednesday (23rd March) saying they were only looking for a win in the AFC Group A qualifier against Palestine.

SCRIPTING INFORMATION:

The UAE team continue their quest to qualify for the 2018 World Cup with a home match against Palestine in Abu Dhabi on Thursday (24th March) at the Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium.

It's the first game of two at home in Group A that will determine whether the UAE advance to the third round of Asian World Cup qualifying.

UAE team entertain a Palestine side that were more than a match for them when they met last September, earning a 0-0 draw in Al-Ram.

The UAE realistically need to beat Palestine, and then Group A leaders Saudi Arabia when they visit Abu Dhabi five days later, to advance to the next round.

Palestine and Saudi Arabia prepare for WC qualifier in Jordan

SCRIPTING INFORMATION:

Palestine and Saudi Arabia prepared in the Jordanian capital, Amman, on Sunday (November 8) for Monday's World Cup qualifying match.

The teams played in Jeddah in June in the first of their two scheduled Asia zone World Cup qualifiers, with the Saudis winning 3-2.

That match was originally supposed to be played in Palestine, but Saudi Arabia had refused to travel to the Israeli-occupied West Bank, citing undefined "exceptional circumstances".

The return leg was then set for October 13, again in the West Bank, but Saudi Arabia on September 23 demanded that it be played at a neutral ground.

That demand was accepted by the FIFA World Cup organising committee, but the Palestinian federation refused to accept the decision, saying it set a "dangerous precedent."

However, last Thursday, Palestine's football association said it had reluctantly agreed to play the match - and another qualifier against Malaysia later in the week - in Jordan.

Amman, Jordan - 8th November 2015

1. 00.00 SOUNDBITE: (Arabic) Ahmed Eid Al Harby, president of the Saudi Arabian Football Federation

"Firstly I would like to say that the Saudi Federation did not refuse to play. The Federation sent a letter confirming its inability to play in Ramallah because of security concerns. The players were ready for all circumstances and I can't see any reason for any negative speculation. All the players were taking part in their teams matches in the national league. The last matches of the league were held last week. There are no reasons for concern. The players' morale is very high as you can see. Our performance in the match will be in line with our team ethic. Our team ethic is that whoever wears the Saudi team's colours should be ready to sacrifice himself for our sport, our people and supporters outside Saudi Arabia."

2. 00.54 Various of Palestine team training

Iraq trained and talked on Monday (19 January) about their final Asian Group D match against Palestine.

Iraq conducted their final preparations on Monday ahead of their must win game against Palestine in Group D of the Asian Cup.

The 'Lions of Mesopotamia' won the opening game 1-0 against Jordan before losing by the same margin against Japan last week (16 January).

A win against Palestine will guarantee Iraq a spot in the quarter-finals for the sixth time in a row.

Iraq have a good pedigree in Asian football, winning the title eight years ago and reaching the quarter-finals at every other Asian Cup since 1996.

Despite Palestine losing their first two matches - conceding nine goals - Iraq head coach Radhi Shneshal said the match will not be easy.

Only two out of the nine Arab teams taking part at Australia 2015 have guaranteed qualification to the last eight.

Shneshal said he thought there must be errors in the planning and strategy of the Arab Football Federation.

Canberra, Australia. 19 January 2015.

1. 00:00 Wide Iraq squad training

2. 00:06 Various of team captain Younus Mahmood

3. 00:26 Iraq coach Radhi Shneshal (left) with his coaching staff

4. 00:33 Wide of news conference

5. 00:37 SOUNDBITE (Arabic) Radhi Shneshal, Iraq coach:

"If we look at the chances of the teams in the group even Palestine have a chance to qualify if they beat Iraq and Jordan lose against Japan, then we will have three teams with the same points, and I think the Palestinian team would like to leave the championship on a high. The Palestinian team is not only a football team, but an ambassador for Palestine in this championship, and that's why this match won't be easy, so we have to give all our effort. Thinking about how easy the match is will be negative to our performance."

6. 01:23 Various of team jogging

7. 01:58 Various of Shneshal

8. 02:17 SOUNDBITE (Arabic) Radhi Shneshal, Iraq coach:

"I think most of the Arab Football Federation don't have long term plans and strategies to prepare teams for big competitions such as the Asian Cup or World Cup qualification. For example, Saudi Arabia didn't qualify for the last World Cup and before that they qualified three or four times in a row and there are reasons for that. I think after this competition we have to think and find out where the errors are and start to correct those errors, otherwise the gap between Arab teams and teams from the Far East will widen."

9. 02:58 Various of team practising

10. 03:15 SOUNDBITE (Arabic) Ahmed Ibrahim, Iraq defender:

"As you know in this group we don't know who will guarantee qualification, that's why the match will be difficult for us. We respect all the other teams, and every match for us like a final. I hope God will help us and win the three points and qualify to the next round."

11. 03:37 Team training

12. 03:45 SOUNDBITE (English) Yaser Kasim, Iraq Midfielder:

"Well, you know we played quite well against Jordan, but Japan is a tough team to play against, they've been together for long time, so is very tough, so hopefully we will start strong tomorrow against Palestine and get through the group stages and never know what happens, hopefully we click more and get through to the quarter-finals".

13. 04:11 Coach Radhi Shneshal

14. 04:20 Goalkeepers practising

Palestinian FA agree to FIFA demand to hold two World Cup qualifiers versus Saudi Arabia and Malaysia in Jordan.

SCRIPTING INFORMATION:

The president of the Palestinian Soccer Federation said on Thursday (November 5th) that the national team's two upcoming World Cup qualifying matches - against Saudi Arabia on Monday and Malaysia next Thursday - will be played in Jordan.

Palestinian soccer federation president Jibril Rajoub made the announcement at a news conference in Ramallah in the West Bank.

Earlier this week, FIFA said the matches against Saudi Arabia and Malaysia could not take place in the West Bank because of security reasons.

A new round of Israeli-Palestinian confrontations erupted last month, and the West Bank has been the scene of repeated clashes between Palestinians and Israeli troops.

Ramallah, West Bank. 5th November, 2015.

1. 00.00 Jibril Rajoub, head of the Palestinian Football Association walking to podium.

2. 00.05 Wide of press conference.

3. 00.10 SOUNDBITE: (Arabic) Jibril Rajoub, head of the Palestinian Football Association:

"FIFA sent us a deadline, we agreed and we sent our consent, it is not me who decides and not you. On the day of the game, the match monitor will come and will decide on the technical issues, I'm telling you we have talked to the Saudis to postpone it. "

4. 00.27 Various media at press conference.

5. 00.47 SOUNDBITE: (Arabic) Jibril Rajoub, head of the Palestinian Football Association:

"In principle our decision is to go for the matches, one on the ninth, and one on the 12th, regardless of the result and regardless of the circumstances but until now we still have problems with them. If they agree to postpone that will be appreciated if not, that will also will be appreciated."

6. 01.19 Rajoub at press conference.

LEAD IN:

Large crowds have been watching the Palestinian national football team take on the United Arab Emirates for a place in the 2016 World Cup.

The two sides drew 0-0 in the qualifier, but it did nothing to dampen the party like atmosphere at the Faisal Al Husseini stadium in Al Ram.

STORY-LINE

Flags flying, it's a good day to be patriotic.

Palestinian football fans are out supporting their home team as they vie for a win during a world cup qualifier against the UAE.

It's a special moment: it's the first time the Palestinians have hosted a World Cup match.

It's also the first time the team has played a match all together since 2011, a diplomatic victory for the Palestinian side.

The side has long-faced difficulties in playing together - Israel has restricted player movements in the past.

But this time players from Gaza and the West Bank have come together - and it's whipping the crowd into a delighted frenzy.

Playing the Durbaka for the fans, Adel Hammad left his home in the West Bank city of Bethlehem to attend the game on at the Faisal Al Husseini stadium in Al Ram on the outskirts of Jerusalem.

The father of six says he tries never to miss a match - home or abroad.

"I came back from Jordan and cut short my stay with my son there in order to watch the (Palestinian) national team's game. Since I'm a fan of the national team when they went to Australia I followed them there; I also went to Qatar and Greece. Everywhere they go, I go with them. This is in my blood."

Around 10,000 people have packed the stadium for the game.

Many like Marwa Deeb have spent the day travelling to get here.

"It took us three hours to come from Maj al - Krum to here.We stopped once on the way to drink because there were old people and children with us; but despite this hot weather and the long distance we came to support the Palestinian team."

It's a tough match. Dust hangs in the air as a sandstorm blankets the area, raising pollution levels.

A victory for the Palestinian side is not to be, tonight's match ends in a draw.

But the crowds are far from disappointed.

"Our national team played very well and I want to thank the UAE national team for coming to play in Palestine," says Khaled Aziz, as he poses for photographs with friends after the match.

LEAD IN:

Large crowds have been watching the Palestinian national football team take on the United Arab Emirates for a place in the 2016 World Cup.

The two sides drew 0-0 in the qualifier, but it did nothing to dampen the party like atmosphere at the Faisal Al Husseini stadium in Al Ram.

STORY-LINE

Flags flying, it's a good day to be patriotic.

Palestinian football fans are out supporting their home team as they vie for a win during a world cup qualifier against the UAE.

It's a special moment: it's the first time the Palestinians have hosted a World Cup match.

It's also the first time the team has played a match all together since 2011, a diplomatic victory for the Palestinian side.

The side has long-faced difficulties in playing together - Israel has restricted player movements in the past.

But this time players from Gaza and the West Bank have come together - and it's whipping the crowd into a delighted frenzy.

Playing the Durbaka for the fans, Adel Hammad left his home in the West Bank city of Bethlehem to attend the game on at the Faisal Al Husseini stadium in Al Ram on the outskirts of Jerusalem.

The father of six says he tries never to miss a match - home or abroad.

"I came back from Jordan and cut short my stay with my son there in order to watch the (Palestinian) national team's game. Since I'm a fan of the national team when they went to Australia I followed them there; I also went to Qatar and Greece. Everywhere they go, I go with them. This is in my blood."

Around 10,000 people have packed the stadium for the game.

Many like Marwa Deeb have spent the day travelling to get here.

"It took us three hours to come from Maj al - Krum to here.We stopped once on the way to drink because there were old people and children with us; but despite this hot weather and the long distance we came to support the Palestinian team."

It's a tough match. Dust hangs in the air as a sandstorm blankets the area, raising pollution levels.

A victory for the Palestinian side is not to be, tonight's match ends in a draw.

But the crowds are far from disappointed.

"Our national team played very well and I want to thank the UAE national team for coming to play in Palestine," says Khaled Aziz, as he poses for photographs with friends after the match.

AP TELEVISION

Al-Ram, outskirts of Jerusalem - 8 September 2015

1. Wide Palestinian football fans waving national flag

2. Pan left of foobtall match in progresss

3. Various Adel Hammad, Palestinian Football team fan entering Faisal al-Husseini stadium and greeting fans while playing Durbaka

4. SOUNDBITE (Arabic): Adel Hammad, Palestinian Football team fan

"I came back from Jordan and cut short my stay with my son there in order to watch the (Palestinian) national team's game. Since I'm a fan of the national team when they went to Australia I followed them there; I also went to Qatar and Greece. Everywhere they go, I go with them. This is in my blood."

5. Pan from Hammad to football fans watching game

6. Wide Palestine vs. UAE football game

7. Pan left football fans

8. Supporter Marwa Deeb (right) clapping and cheering her national team

9. SOUNDBITE (Arabic): Marwa Deeb, fan from Maj Al-Krum, Northern Israel:

"It took us three hours to come from Maj al-Krum to here.We stopped once on the way to drink because there were old people and children with us; but despite this hot weather and the long distance we came to support the Palestinian team."

10. Narmeen Ziadeh (left) and friends clapping UPSOUND (Arabic) "We love Palestine"

11. SOUNDBITE (Arabic): Narmeen Ziadeh, fan from Jerusalem:

"I am very happy to see a team that came from abroad to play in Palestine. I hope to always see this stadium hosting national teams from everywhere."

12. Wide Palestine vs. UAE football game

13. Wide of football fans watching game

14. Fan blowing horn during game

15. Various Palestine vs. UAE football game

16. Mid Palestinian team fans cheering

17. Fan wearing hat reading "Palestine" and clapping her hands

18. Palestinian woman and child in stadium

19. Fan Khaled Aziz (far left) posing for a photograph after the game

20. SOUNDBITE (Arabic): Khaled Aziz, Palestinian fan from Jerusalem:

"Our national team played very well and I want to thank the UAE national team for coming to play in Palestine. In spite of all the difficulties they were able to come to Faisal al-Husseini stadium in the heart of Jerusalem."

21. Mid scoreboard showing match results

22. Wide football players leaving field

23. Wide football players leaving field and fans cheering

As sport takes a pause due to the coronavirus crisis, SNTV is taking a look back at some of the most striking archive items from the Middle East and North Africa.

--

Fans in the Gaza Strip kicked off their own version of football's World Cup in May 2010, pitting 16 teams of local and foreign players in a contest to win a trophy made out of twisted metal and rubble from last year's war with Israel.

Organisers say the event is meant to highlight a three-year blockade that has prevented most of the tiny territory's 1.5 million residents (in 2010), including athletes, from being able to travel abroad.

Israel and Egypt have tightly blockaded Gaza since the militant group Hamas seized power here in June 2007.

Israel prevents raw materials from entering the strip, leaving Gaza's bombed-out buildings largely untouched.

On the sporting front, only one Gazan sports team has travelled abroad since the blockade began.

That happened in 2008, the team in question completing a six-week training camp in Egypt.

Against this background, a "Gaza World Cup" kicked off at the weekend - the event made up of 16 teams, each containing a mixture of local and foreign players.

It will last a fortnight.

Some 4,000 people screamed, shouted and waved small Palestinian flags in a sports stadium in Gaza City ahead of the first match between 'Palestine' and 'Italy'.

Patrick McGrann is an American aid worker from Minneapolis, Minnesota, working for Kitegang, a charity that helps traumatised children.

He helped make the idea of a "Gaza World Cup" a reality.

Gaza City, Gaza Strip. 2nd May 2010.

1. 00:00 Pan of Gaza soccer stadium ahead of ceremony opening the Gaza version of football's World Cup

2. 00:10 Mid of Palestinian spectators cheering and waving Palestinian flags

3. 00:17 Mid of balls set on field next to Palestinian flags

4. 00:23 Mid of The Netherlands team in procession

5. 00:33 Mid of South Africa team in procession

6. 00:40 Tilt up to mid of Italy and America teams in procession

7. 00:57 Wide of teams walking on field as dancers perform traditional dance

8. 01:04 Various of members of different teams standing with flags

9. 01:18 SOUNDBITE (English): Patrick McGrann, Gaza World Cup organiser:

"We thought about it... Gazans aren't welcome to go to the World Cup, so we should do our own World Cup. So I think the Gazan World Cup came about because there were a lot of foreigners and a lot of Gazans that realised we'd benefit from spending more time together."

10. 01:30 Wide of Italy and Palestine teams standing together before match

11. 01:37 Mid of members of Italy team

12. 01:43 SOUNDBITE (English): Victor Arigani, Italian Non-Governmental Organisation worker:

"I don't understand why Israeli teams they go to play in (the UEFA) Champions League, like Maccabi (Haifa), but the Gazans can't go to play or play in Al Kudz (Jerusalem). Insha'Allah (God willing) this can be a good day of festivities."

13. 02:01 Mid of Italy players sitting on sidelines

14. 02:07 Various of match between Palestine and Italy

15. 02:29 Mid of spectators

16. 02:37 SOUNDBITE (English): Anna, Italian Non-Governmental Organisation worker:

"I hope we will win the game, because anyway whether Italy wins (or not) it will be both the Italian team and the Palestinian team because the Italian team is full of Palestinian players. So I hope we will win I am very proud of my team today."

17. 02:50 Wide of match between Palestine and Italy

18. 03:02 Wide of referees leaving field towards sign reading "We Playing For Gaza."

LEAD IN:

An exhibition dedicated to football culture and its impact on the Middle East has opened in Paris.

"Football in the Arab World" surveys the sport's special role in the history of the region.

STORYLINE:

On or off the pitch, this exhibition covers all areas.

From archive videos to football kits, it explores football's role in Arab culture.

Recognised as the first successful African player in Europe, this is a picture of Moroccan football player Larbi Benbarek.

Benbarek rose to fame in 1928 and played for the French national team, later becoming the first football coach for Morocco's national team after it gained independence.

There are 11 different areas to explore - one for each player in a football team.

Golden trophies held during moments of glory on the field.

The most prestigious of them all - the World Cup.

Displayed inside a glass container, this cup is awarded to the winners of the FIFA World Cup tournaments.

Director of the exhibition, Aurelie Clemente Ruiz says the idea of the exhibition is to show that football is a major part of the Arab world.

"Anybody who has been to the city of Cairo while there is a derby between (Egyptian clubs) Al Ahly and Zamalek will understand this passion for football in the Arab world," she explains.

And she says it is entwined into the history of many Arab countries.

"When we are talking about historical stories such as the FLN team in Algeria before the independence, that's really interesting because it's a major part of this history. And that really made an impact even in France at the time."

The exhibition also explores the links between politics and football.

"We all know how it was linked to the Arab Spring in Egypt, of course, and in Tunisia also and even today we can link it to Algeria. Because the current protests were kind of born in football stadiums," explains Jack Lang, President of the Arab World Institute.

Egyptian goalkeeper Essam El-Hadary's glove is a colourful addition to the exhibits.

Romain Maricaoudin, Associate Commissioner of "Football and the Arab World says the sport is a way to find hope.

"In Palestine football exists and FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association) has recognised Palestine, so we can talk about hope but also explain that, yes, football is on a pitch but in the Arab world it's on a lot of fields - on the social and political field too," says Maricaoudin.  

Simply having a national side recognised by football's international governing body is a boost for Palestinian identity.

And Palestinian artist Khaled Jarrar has used the sport to make a political point.

He created this cement football from the barrier built by Israel to separate the West Bank from Israel.

The exhibition, titled "Football in the Arab World: The Revolution of the Round Ball" will run in Paris at the Institut du Monde Arabe until July 21, 2019.

On June 21, the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations is scheduled to start in Cameroon.

n the AP Television News service and for libel, privacy, compliance and third party rights applicable to their Territory.

Paris, France – 13 June 2019

1. Tilt down inside main exhibition room

2. Various of area dedicated to Moroccan football player Larbi Benbarek

3. Men listening to information speaker about exhibition

4. Various of exhibition area dedicated to Lebanon's Neyjmeh SC club

5. Sign reading (English) "1998-2018: From one Football Star to Another"

6. Tilt up of exhibition dedicated to the World Cup

7. Set-up of Aurelie Clemente Ruiz, director of exhibition, looking at World Cup

8. SOUNDBITE (French) Aurelie Clemente Ruiz, director of exhibition:

"We started with the idea to show that football is a major apart in the Arab world and of course we were right about it. Anybody who has been to the city of Cairo while there is a derby between (Egyptian clubs) Al Ahly and Zamalek will understand this passion for football in the Arab world. But beyond that, what we see is that, sometimes, it is actually a way to write some countries' history and some demands that people have, and this is the most interesting thing."

9. French footballer Zinedine Zidane's jersey. Zidane has Algerian heritage.

10. Wide of France-Algeria football game area

11. Tilt-down of French Newspaper L'Equipe reading (French): "Zidane out of love"

12. SOUNDBITE (French) Aurelie Clemente Ruiz, director of exhibition:

"This topic did not get much attention and most of the time, it was a way to come back to political questions. When we are talking about historical stories such as the FLN team in Algeria before the independence, that's really interesting because it's a major part of this history. And that really made an impact even in France at the time. But we also have many contemporary things (in the exhibition), such as the Palestinian question and the impossibility for female players to play football. So we tried to find a balance in the stories we are showing."

13. Pan of area displaying football jerseys

14. Close of Egyptian national team's jersey

15. Pan of main entrance

16. Set up of Jack Lang, President of the Arab World Institute, talking to other men

17. SOUNDBITE (French) Jack Lang, President of the Arab World Institute (Institut du Monde Arabe IMA) :

"It has played and plays a very important emancipating role. We all know how it was linked to the Arab Spring in Egypt, of course, and in Tunisia also and even today we can link it to Algeria, because the current protests were kind of born in football stadiums."

18. Pan of area dedicated to Cairo

19. Mid of exhibition

20. Pan of Egyptian footballer Essam El-Hadary's gloves

21. Pan from Jordanian female football player Roubzbahan Raed Fraji's jersey for Jordan's Women's National Football Team to Palestinian area

22. Various set-up shots of Romain Maricaoudin, Associate Commissioner of "Football and the Arab World", walking

23. SOUNDBITE (French) Romain Maricaoudin, Associate Commissioner of "Football and the Arab World":

"It is the hope for the emancipation of women for example and for men too because it means a financial emancipation. It is a way to contest the current political powers, as we saw with the Ultras (in Egypt). Also in Palestine, football exists and FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association) has recognised Palestine, so we can talk about hope but also explain that, yes, football is on a pitch but in the Arab world it's on a lot of fields - on the social and political field too."

24. Pan from Palestinian jersey to wide of room

25. Tilt-down from video of Palestinian artist Khaled Jarrar drilling wall to cement football he created from parts of Israel's separation wall

STORYLINE:

Argentina continued their FIFA World Cup preparations in Barcelona, Spain on Wednesday (6th June), a day after pulling out of a warm-up match with Israel.

SCRIPTING INFORMATION:

Following pressure from pro-Palestine activists, Argentina decided on Tuesday (5th June) to pull out of a scheduled World Cup warm-up match against Israel.

Football fans in Israel had been eagerly awaiting a chance to see Lionel Messi and his international team-mates in the flesh, but security concerns led to Argentina withdrawing from the match, which was to have been played in Jerusalem on Saturday (9th June).

Claudio Tapia, president of the Argentine Football Association, apologised on Wednesday for cancelling the match, but said the safety of the players was at stake.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called Argentine President Mauricio Macri and urged him to intervene, to no avail.

Later on Wednesday, Israel's Sports Ministry said a "negotiation" about the match was underway, but gave no further details.

The head of the Palestinian football association, Jibril Rajoub, had called on Arab soccer fans to burn Messi posters and T-shirts if he participated in the match.

Israeli organisers said an offer had been made to play the game in Barcelona, but it appears highly unlikely.

Argentina open their Group D campaign in Russia facing Iceland on June 16th.

Jorge Sampaoli's side will then play Croatia on 21st June and Nigeria on 26th June.

It is unclear whether Argentina will arrange another warm-up match or if they will instead opt to arrive in Moscow ahead of schedule.

_Barcelona, Spain. 6th June 2018. 1. 00_00 Bus carrying Argentina arriving at team hotel2. 00_12 Lionel Messi inside bus3. 00_23 Tilt down from hotel to pro-Palestine demo4. 00_29 Various of Palestinian and Argentinean flags and shirts with writing thanking Argentina for not playing against Israel5. 00_41 Various of speaker during demonstration6. 00_52 Various of anti-Israel banners7. 01_01 SOUNDBITE_ (Spanish) Alice Samson, Pro-Palestine activist__We had planned this event as a sign of protest because Argentina was going to play a friendly game against Israel. But because we've won and they decided to cancel the game we are now here to thank them, because they've chosen to be on the right side of history, and also to remind them that the apartheid, colonisation and occupation continue in Palestine. We will not stop until Israel respects the human rights of the Palestinian people._8. 01_26 Various of demonstration9. 01_51 Various of Argentina training at Barcelona sports centreSOURCE_ SNTVDURATION_ 03_04