Saudi Arabia donates $1 million for soccer in PA

Saudi Arabia has donated $1 million toward soccer development projects in the Palestinian territories. The donation was agreed Wednesday at a meeting between FIFA President Sepp Blatter and delegates from the Arab and Palestinian soccer associations, world soccer's governing body said Thursday. FIFA said $2.6 million has now been raised for its "second Goal project," involving the construction of artificial pitches in Gaza and Ramallah, and a national stadium in Ram. A first Goal project to build headquarters for the Palestinian soccer association in Gaza was completed in 2005. Blatter welcomed the Saudi donation, saying it helped FIFA realize its aim of ensuring that "all national teams be able to play matches at home."