More Than Just a Game is a digital sports series by CGTN America where Ahmed Ghoneim explores how athletes shape society beyond the playing field. The series delves into the intersection of sports (particularly football) politics, culture, and identity, highlighting athletes who have used their platforms to spark social change, challenge stereotypes, and unite communities.

Beyond the Board: Skating for Change in Brazil 

CGTN’s Ahmed Ghoneim and Eshalaxmi Barlingay went to the favela of Santo Amaro in Rio de Janeiro to meet up with Ademar Luiquinhas and his Ademafia Insititute changing lives in their community through skateboarding. Watch how these young Brazilians are bringing about real change in this new episode of More than Just a Game.

Five things to do in Rio de Janeiro  

Rio De Janeiro has been dubbed the “marvelous city” due to its natural beauty and vibrant culture. Here are five things to do in Rio in this bumper episode of More than Just a Game, where Ahmed Ghoneim and Eshalaxmi Barlingay tour the iconic Brazilian city with video creator and Rio native Cochi Guimaraes.

Capoeira: Dance, Fight, Freedom

CGTN’s Ahmed Ghoneim and Eshalaxmi Barlingay met up with Brazilian martial artist Mauricio Campos by Flamengo Beach in Rio de Janeiro to discuss the roots of capoeira. Find out about the history, rituals, and practices of capoeira in this new episode of More Than Just a Game.

Football for Hope: From Favelas to Football Stars 

CGTN’s Ahmed Ghoneim and Eshalaxmi Barlingay spent a day with Street Child United Brazil in one of Rio de Janeiro’s most notorious favelas, the Complexo da Penha. The project has created a safe space for street kids to play football, and fulfill their dreams of traveling the world and reaching football stardom.

Watch some fancy football moments, and inspiring human stories in this new episode of More than Just a Game.

Double Standards for Palestinians in Football?  

When sports and politics mix things can get ugly. On Thursday night, Nov. 7, Israeli fans who were traveling to Amsterdam were attacked by Dutch youth after shouting racist slogans about Arabs, tearing down Palestinian flags, and ignoring a minute of silence for the Spanish flood victims. The attackers have been condemned by Dutch authorities for anti-semitic violence. And just earlier this week, fans of French football team PSG unveiled a huge banner expressing solidarity with Palestine before a game in Europe’s top football stage.

The action caught global attention, and criticism from France’s interior minister. Football fans, players, and clubs have long taken up political causes — but often the repercussions have been far from fair.

CGTN’s Ahmed Ghoneim examines the double standard in the game when it comes to supporting Palestine compared to actions in support of Ukraine or Israel.

Europe’s Multicultural Footballers: Heroes or Outsiders?  

Stars like Belgium’s Romelu Lukaku, France’s Karim Benzema, and Germany’s Mesut Ozil say they are celebrated for their goals but treated like outsiders when they miss. Catch Ahmed Ghoneim on CGTN’s digital series, More Than Just a Game, as he explores the successes and struggles of Europe’s multicultural stars.

The Football War 

For many watching the recent Copa America, the brawl that broke out between Uruguayan star Darwin Nunez and Colombian fans after the end of the semi-final was a real shocker. But, did you know though that a World Cup qualifier between Honduras and El Salvador in 1969 led to an actual war? Ahmed Ghoneim breaks down what happened in the so-called “Football War” in the third episode of CGTN’s More than Just a Game.

How football superstar Mohamed Salah reduced Islamphobia in the UK

He’s not just winning titles; he’s changing minds and defeating hate. Want to know how Mohammed Salah, aka Egypt’s Messi, is breaking down barriers, defeating racism, and reshaping perceptions of Muslims in the UK? Tune in to this episode of CGTN’s More Than Just a Game, as Ahmed Ghoneim discusses how athletes can have a long-lasting impact on and off the field.

How a tiny country shaped football’s biggest stars 

In the latest episode of CGTN’s “More than Just a Game,” Ahmed Ghoneim takes us on a journey through this tiny South American nation producing some of the world’s most legendary footballers. Dive into how this football powerhouse is trying to channel its raw talent to aim for glory in the 2026 World Cup hosted by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada.

The Benefits of Hosting the Olympics 

As the 2024 Paris Olympic Games end, we explore the benefits and pitfalls of hosting the world’s biggest sporting event. Ahmed Ghoneim breaks down the money and soft power tied to hosting such a spectacle, in another episode of CGTN’s More than Just a Game.

Morocco vs Argentina: Olympic football drama 

A national anthem was booed, a pitch was invaded, and a last-minute goal was canceled as Morocco achieved a historic win against Argentina in the first round of competitive football at the Paris Olympics. Ahmed Ghoneim breaks down the football drama in another episode of CGTN’s More than Just a Game.

Yerba Mate: Messi’s Magic Drink 

Once again, Argentinian football icon and Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi has led his national side to the final of the Copa America, which will be played on Sunday, July 14, in Hard Rock Stadium in Miami, Florida. Before stepping onto the field though, Messi finds his calm and focus with a cup of Yerba Mate.

This traditional South American drink has not only fueled Messi’s legendary performances but has also become a global trend, with fans everywhere joining in on the ritual.

Club Deportivo Palestino: Chile’s Palestinian Football Team

Did you know that Chile is home to one the largest Palestinian diasporas outside the Arab world and even has a football team to celebrate this unique cultural blend? Meet Club Deportivo Palestino, a beacon of heritage and passion! Since its founding in 1920 by Palestinian immigrants, this team has become a symbol of unity and pride, bridging continents and cultures through the beautiful game.

Whether they’re dazzling fans with their skills on the field or fostering community spirit off it, Club Deportivo Palestino is more than just a football team. Watch CGTN’s More than a Game series with Ahmed Ghoneim on the intersection of sports, culture, and politics.