In Ukraine, seeing World Cup, playing soccer pose challenges

By JAMEY KEATEN
Associated Press

IRPIN, Ukraine (AP) — For soccer lovers in Ukraine, Russia’s invasion and the devastation it has wrought have created uncertainties about both playing the sport and watching it. For Ukrainians these days, soccer trails well behind mere survival in the order of priorities. But the sport — like elsewhere — can offer an escape from the troubles of daily life. Running around a field offers up camaraderie, churns up body heat, and in this war-battered country, says simply: Life goes on. Watching the World Cup in Qatar gives a sense of connection to the rest of the world.