Snapshots are on the ground reports from our editorial department, field notes offering context, perspective, and a sharp lens on the cultures shaping the game.
During the Africa Nations Championship, iAko Randrianarivelo captured how Madagascar rediscovered its pride through football. From the historic 2019 AFCON run to reaching the CHAN final in 2025, the Barea’s success has ignited joy across the country, uniting communities long divided by political and social tensions. What began as rare hope has transformed into a collective belief: the future belongs to Malagasy football.
Read MoreDate: September 2025 FCS-ID:006/IR10925— 261 iAko Randrianarivelo
From Tufts University to the Solomon Islands, Ben Katz, a medical student, has carried football alongside his research in global health. Between documenting the stories of diabetic amputees in remote villages and stumbling into an inter-island tournament, his lens captured both resilience and joy. The project is a reminder of how football travels with us, connecting people across distance and circumstance.
Read MoreDate: August 2025 FCS-ID:005/BK10825— 677
Ben Katz
Portuguesa, one of São Paulo’s most storied clubs, has lived through triumphs and turmoil at its iconic Canindé Stadium. Once a symbol of glory and community pride, the club’s fortunes shifted after a controversial relegation in 2013, sparking decline and financial chaos. Now, with a stadium renovation planned for 2026 and a new SAF ownership model in place, Portuguesa stands at a crossroads—between preserving its heritage and building a sustainable future.
Read MoreDate: August 2025 FCS-ID:004/GB10825— 55 Gabriel Borelli
Akis Katsoudas captures the spirit of Wales’ first-ever Women’s Euro appearance, where even a heavy 6–1 defeat to England couldn’t dampen the celebrations. The stands in St. Gallen rang with songs, flags, and pride, showing that for these supporters, participation alone was a milestone worth honoring. It was a reminder that in football, joy can live well beyond the scoreline.
Read MoreDate: July 2025 FCS-ID:003/AK40625— 41 Akis Katsoudas
Before the Women’s Euro officially kicks off, the spirit of the tournament was already alive in Athens at the Mini Euros, a grassroots celebration featuring women’s teams from across Europe. This year’s champions, FC Abalos, lifted the trophy in front of a buzzing crowd, but the real victory was the shared joy, camaraderie, and sisterhood that defined the weekend. As players danced, played, and bonded beyond language, the Mini Euros became more than a competition—it became a reminder of why we play.
Read MoreDate: June 2025 FCS-ID:002/AK30625— 30 Akis Katsoudas
In Oslo’s hilltop neighborhood of Ekeberg, KFUM Oslo’s rise to Norway’s top division is more than just a footballing fairytale—it’s a story of identity, faith, and community. In With God’s Blessing, Jørgen Mo captures the spirit of a club rooted in Christian values, offering a unique glimpse into the unlikely intersections of religion and modern football.
Read MoreDate: May 2025 FCS-ID:001/JM10525— 47 Jørgen Mo