Soccer returns to Mosul - unencumbered by IS rules

MOSUL, Iraq - After months of fighting, Mosul residents can finally practice their favorite game again at a soccer field in the eastern part of the city - and this time without the restrictions imposed by Islamic State group militants.

The venue was closed for almost four months while Iraqi forces and militants fought a fierce battle for the city. Signs of war are still visible, with broken windows and damaged fences surrounding the pitch and with holes in the rooftop of the canteen.

"It was closed for three to four months and we reopened after the liberation," said Abu Laith Mohammed, manager of the facility.