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November 19, 2009
Posted: 1729 GMT
Hello everyone, Sometimes, sports stories become international news stories. The World Cup qualifying match between France and Ireland fits into that category. After a hand ball from French star striker Thierry Henry sent France to the World Cup finals, there have been calls for a replay from ordinary fans all the way up to Irish politicians. Irish Justice Minister Dermot Ahern told a radio station he believes there should be a rematch, but added: "They (FIFA) probably won't grant it as we are minnows in world football but let's put them on the spot." But the French Prime Minister is reportedly saying the Irish government should butt out of the footballing row. Is this football controversay turning into a diplomatic spat? Football is so closely tied to national pride in many parts of the world that a perception of injustice such as this inflames passions. And even people in France are saying this was not the way they wanted to win. My Twitter page was flooded with viewers – France and Ireland supporters alike – saying FIFA should order a replay. Although that is unlikely to happen, this incident may have an impact on how the world football federation considers improvements to refereeing. We will talk with Pedro Pinto in London, Terry Baddoo here in Atlanta and hear from the irish justice minister as well from the streets of Paris. Also today, we take you live to Brussels for more on the ongoing vote for a new E.U. President. Jim Bittermann is in the Belgian capital with more on the front runner and what the job of European Union president means. Don't forget to take part in our online poll on whether you think electing a European president will make a difference. Then, we will go to Kabul and talk to our Chris Lawrence who attended President Hamid Karzai's inauguration after a controversial elections and calls from close allies to seriously address corruption in the Afghan government. Plus, a look at Wall Street where a major sell-off is under way. That, and the rest of the day's top stories, as always. See you at the IDesk! Hala Posted by: CNN Anchor, Hala Gorani |
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