FIFA officials "were disappointed at the empty seats that have greeted teams" at the U20 World Cup in Turkey. FIFA Organizing Committee Chair Jim Boyce said Monday that he was "unhappy with the turnout that has averaged only 4,828 spectators for the first 12 matches at the six sites" (XINHUA, 6/24). Vanishing spray to prevent players from encroaching free kicks is being used at the U20 World Cup. It is "the latest move to aid referees following the introduction of goalline technology at the Confederations Cup" (INSIDE WORLD FOOTBALL, 6/24). ... Al Ahli fans stormed Cairo's military stadium last weekend "against the backdrop of demonstrations held by Islamists in favour of" President Mohammed Morsi and in "a possible foretaste of anti-Morsi demonstrations planned" for Sunday, the first anniversary of Morsi's inauguration, which aims to force new elections (INSIDE WORLD FOOTBALL, 6/24). ... Bulgarian side CSKA Sofia "has declared itself bankrupt and will try to merge with another club to carry on competing in a different guise next season" -- or end up in the amateur ranks. The 31-time national champions "have been struggling financially in recent years, along with many Bulgarian clubs" (INSIDE WORLD FOOTBALL, 6/24).
