Syrian children in Idlib hold their own cup of joy

More than 300 children in rebel-held northwest Syria kicked off their own football World Cup on Saturday, with organisers hoping to shine a light on communities battered by 11 years of war. The excited children took part in the opening ceremony at the municipal stadium in Idlib, some wearing the jerseys of this year's World Cup teams, an AFP photographer said.

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Their 32 squads correspond to the nations that have qualified for the World Cup, which starts Sunday in Qatar, and their competition opened with a match between the host country and Ecuador, reflecting the official schedule.

"I represent Spain and I hope we win the cup," gushed 12-year-old Bassel Sheikho, who works in a garage.