FIFA

"We played like heroes, but Israel - meaning FIFA and the referees - had something to say about it, and we couldn't overcome these circumstances," said Egyptian commentator Mohammed Nour.

"In today’s media climate, the individualists with the most Instagram likes are celebrated, while players who know how to connect with their teammates are left to the soccer nerds."

The unprecedented move has thrust FIFA's disciplinary process into the global spotlight and prompted an angry response from Belgium, which plays the US on Monday for a place in the quarter-finals.

“My heart and soul are with them,” he said post-game. “May God have mercy on their martyrs. I dedicate this victory to the Egyptian people and to the Palestinian people, the good and noble people."

We are by far the most irritating people on the planet. With such a reputation, the FIFA World Cup should be child’s play. So, why are we not even in the running?

Friday's group game falls on Seattle's Pride weekend, a scheduling quirk that emerged only after December's draw pitted the two Muslim-majority countries against each other.

According to the Cape Verde Jewish Heritage Project, Sephardi Jews from Morocco and Gibraltar settled in Cabo Verde in the mid-19th century, after Portugal abolished the Inquisition in 1821.

Israel is the only non-European country trying to reach the tournament through UEFA, while most of its neighbors seek places through the Asian Football Confederation.

The consumer club for career military personnel planned to produce a giant viewing event for men only, and sparked a storm.

Iran announced over the weekend they would be making a complaint with FIFA about the requirements, with manager Amir Ghalenoei saying Iran are "the most oppressed team in the whole World Cup."