FIFA – Prost International [PINT]

Messi leads Argentina to 3rd World Cup Victory

Mark Szczuka — Sat, 07 Jan 2023 22:38:37 +0000

Photo: Stephen Gormley (Red Eye Photo Agency)

Argentina secured a 4-2 penalty victory over current holders France following a dramatic 3-3 draw to win the World Cup in Qatar.

Following four weeks of winter football in the desert it all came down to one match to determine who would be crowned the 22^nd World Cup Champions at the end of 2022.

The 88,000 Lusail stadium was dominated by the noisy light blue and white fans of Argentina. Even the most passionate of them would have doubted seeing their team make it all the way to the Final following their shock 2-1 opening-match defeat to Qatari neighbours Saudi Arabia in the very same Lusail stadium three and a half weeks earlier.

However at 35-years old, Argentinean Captain and undoubtedly one of the greatest players world football has ever seen, Lionel Messi magnificently led his team back from that early disappointment with subsequent victories over Mexico, Poland, Australia, Netherlands and Croatia.

The Final turned out to be the battle of the number 10s. Messi and Mbapee were both level on five goals each at the top of the 2022 World Cup scoring charts as the Final commenced.

Argentina looked the hungrier of the sides early on. Di Maria was having the freedom of the left side, twisting and turning the French defence inside out. His efforts paid off in the 21st minute when he was taken down in the box and the referee had no hesitation in pointing to the spot. Messi stepped up to make it 1-0 to Argentina.

In the 36th minute a sweeping move saw Argentina break forward. Quick balls from Messi to Álvarez to Mac Allister and finally to Di Maria who finished off the beautiful move to make it 2-0 to the South Americans.

It looked like the match was done and dusted as the clocked ticked by with Messi looking relaxed as he relished the prospect of lifting the cup for his country as well as becoming the tournament’s top scorer. However France received a life-line when they were awarded a penalty in the 80^th minute after Kolo Muani was dragged down in the box. Up stepped France’s number 10 Kylian Mbappe to score the penalty to make it 2-1.

Suddenly Argentina looked nervous. Their nerves were then shattered just two minutes later when Messi lost possession of the ball and out of nowhere Mbappe levelled the match with a magnificent volley from the edge of the box.

The match continued on into extra time with chances falling to both teams. However in the 108th minute the little magician Messi had one more trick up his sleeve. The ball fell to him in the six yard box, first attempt saved but no mistake with the rebound, it was 3-2 now to Argentina and both number 10s were level again at the top of the scoring charts.

Surely Argentina wouldn’t let their lead slip again when they were ten minutes away again from victory. But no, another penalty was awarded with four minutes to go following a hand ball at the edge of the box and Mbappe dramatically levelled again. Both teams had great chances at the death to win it in the final few seconds of extra time but the match would be decided by penalties.

Mbapee stepped up first for France and put his side ahead with his third successful spot kick of the night. Messi was next up and coolly rolled the ball into the back of the net

France then missed their next two penalties and Argentina’s Gonzalo Montiel had the honour of stepping up to slot home his countries fourth successive spot kick to win the title for Argentina 4-2 on penalties.

It was devastating for France who had comeback so well twice in the match from 2-0 down and 3-2 down and in particular very tough on Mbappe who had somehow managed to score a hat-trick in a World Cup Final and finished as the tournament’s leading goalscorer but who walked away with a loser’s medal.

In contrast, Argentinean’s number 10 Lionel Messi finally achieved the missing piece of his illustrious career by scoring twice in the Final, converting his penalty kick in the shoot-out and captaining his country to the greatest price in World Football.

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7 World Cup players who earned a move in 2023

Richard Sandor — Sun, 01 Jan 2023 13:27:01 +0000

The 2022 World Cup in Qatar was overshadowed by criticism of the host country prior to kick-off, with many left questioning the Gulf state’s approach to human rights and the LGBTQ+ community. While politics threatened to dominate this winter’s tournament, it was football that came out superior, with a record number of goals scored (172) for a FIFA World Cup, and a hatful of surprises that came along the way. Some of the usual suspects shined in Qatar, most notably Argentina’s talisman Lionel Messi, who won the golden ball, and France’s poster boy Kylian Mbappe, who took home the golden boot after eight goals in seven games. However, plenty of surprise names broke through at this winter’s World Cup, as teams like Australia, Saudi Arabia, and Morocco gained an abundance of admirers. Here are seven players that have earned a big move based on their 2022 World Cup performances.

Sofyan Amrabat

Not many people would have recognised Sofyan Amrabat before the tournament, in fact, it was likely that more people would have remembered Sofyan’s older brother Nordin, who turned out for Watford in the Premier League in the 2015/16 season. Nonetheless, the 26-year-old ended the tournament in most people’s teams of the tournament, as well as collecting accolades such as ‘the new Kanté’, having won possession 57 times – the most by any African player since the 1966 World Cup. Alongside his Moroccan teammate Azzedine Ounahi, Amrabat excelled in Qatar and significantly contributed to Morocco becoming the first-ever African side to reach the semi-finals of a World Cup.

Even before the tournament, there were some rumours linking Amrabat with a move away from Fiorentina, but the 2022 World Cup only added fuel to the fire, with some of the biggest clubs in the world now battling for the midfielder’s signature. If the latest rumours are to be believed, Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur seem to be in a direct battle for the Moroccan, but Newcastle United, Paris Saint-Germain, Atletico Madrid, and Sevilla are also linked. According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Fiorentina are only willing to let Amrabat go for at least €40m – with Liverpool only recently spending close to that for Cody Gakpo, does this give Tottenham an advantage in the race for the Atlas Lion?

Jude Bellingham

England midfielder Jude Bellingham was by no means an unknown entity before this winter’s World Cup, after already becoming one of the best young players in the world following his €25m move from Birmingham City to Borussia Dortmund as a 17-year-old in 2020. However, this was perhaps the 19-year-old’s statement tournament, becoming a crucial member of the Three Lions’ midfield in Qatar. The Birmingham native had not scored for his national side ahead of the tournament, but in England’s opener against Iran, it was Bellingham who notched the first goal of the tournament for the Three Lions, also adding an assist for Jordan Henderson in the round of 16 tie against Senegal. At 19, Bellingham became one of the most important pieces of the England team, having finished first in shot-creating chances, tackles won, blocks, and dribbles completed out of the entire squad.

The Borussia Dortmund man’s stock has only risen after the 2022 World Cup, with the usual suspects, such as Real Madrid and PSG, linked with a move for the England star, but it seems more likely that the 19-year-old midfielder will head back to England, with Liverpool and Manchester City set to go head-to-head for his signature. Manchester City have already snapped up his good pal Haaland last summer, with City perhaps the more logical option for Bellingham, however, according to reports in England, Jude’s father is trying to convince his son to choose Liverpool instead. Only time will tell whether Bellingham will listen to his father or become his own man in 2023. gon

Enzo Fernández

Enzo Fernández was largely unknown to European football followers prior to the World Cup, although he was linked with the two Manchester clubs while still playing for River Plate in his native Argentina. A transfer to the Premier League did not materialise, with Portuguese side Benfica instead capturing the midfielder for around €10m. That fee is set to increase ten-fold once the 21-year-old ends up leaving Benfica, especially after his stand-out performances in Argentina’s run to the World Cup title in Qatar. Fernández started the tournament on the bench for the Albiceleste, before becoming an integral part of Argentina’s midfield following his first start in the final group game against Poland.

The 21-year-old impressed throughout the knockout stages, collecting the best young player of the tournament award after the final, with many top European sides now on the hunt for the Argentine. According to the latest reports, most notably by transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea seem to be moments away from signing Fernández. The Benfica midfielder currently has a €120m release clause included in his contract, with Chelsea instead wanting to offer a sum that is slightly lower than that. It has been suggested that the Portuguese side will not budge regarding the 21-year-old’s release clause, so it will remain to be seen whether Chelsea or Benfica will blink first.

Joško Gvardiol

Josko Gvardiol has been heavily linked with Chelsea in the summer when the Londoners were in search of defensive reinforcements. Back then, the roughly €100m price tag led to Chelsea looking for other alternatives, but the Premier League club might now be kicking themselves for not sealing a deal for the Croatian centre-back. The 20-year-old was one of the outstanding performers at the 2022 World Cup, with 37 clearances and 11 interceptions earning him a spot in the team of the tournament. While Gvardiol is primarily deployed as a left-back at his club side RB Leipzig, this winter’s World Cup clearly demonstrated that the Croat is much more superior when played in the middle of the defence.

His incredible defensive displays in Croatia’s run to the semi-finals in Qatar prompted a transfer battle this year, with Premier League giants Manchester City and Manchester United strongly linked, while Chelsea are also set to reignite their interest. Reports in England state that the three clubs have already launched bids for the RB Leipzig defender, with the opening bids believed to be in the region of £80m, however, Sky Sports claim that City are willing to increase their bid up to £110m. Whoever ends up winning the battle for the Croatian centre-back, it will certainly end up being a new transfer record for a defender.

Alexis Mac Allister

A Brighton and Hove Albion player lifting the World Cup trophy was not something many people would have expected to see in 2022, yet Alexis Mac Allister became an important part of the Argentina side that triumphed on the world stage for the first time since 1986. The 24-year-old midfielder started the tournament on the bench for Argentina, however, following a surprising defeat at the hands of Saudi Arabia in Albiceleste’s opening match, the Brighton man was thrown straight into the starting eleven in the next match, where he remained throughout the tournament.

His brilliant displays in Qatar have led to a handful of European sides vying for his signature, with the likes of Atletico Madrid, Juventus, Chelsea, and Liverpool linked with the Argentina star. Mac Allister joined Brighton in 2019 for around €8m, a fee that seems like an absolute bargain today. Chelsea and Liverpool seem to be the two sides closest to signing the 24-year-old, who they see as a cheaper alternative to other targets, notably Enzo Fernández and Jude Bellingham, as mentioned earlier in the article. With Mac Allister costing around €40m, any team with some spare change could be getting a decent midfielder in the near future.

Dominik Livaković

Dominik Livakovic was the outstanding goalkeeper of this winter’s World Cup, having racked up the most saves in the entire tournament with 24, and being particularly exceptional against Brazil in the quarter-finals. Prior to the tournament, it was even debatable whether Livakovic will be Croatia’s number-one goalkeeper, having been dropped in a handful of games in qualifying due to shaky performances. That being said, Livakovic put to bed any doubts over his position in between the sticks for his national team with his performances in Qatar, while also earning plenty of admirers on the club stage.

At the age of 27, Livakovic is surprisingly still on the books of Dinamo Zagreb, but if the tournament in Qatar was anything to go by, he is finally entering his prime years. Plenty of clubs have been linked with the Croatia number-one in the past months, with Bayern Munich reportedly recently pulling out of the race, despite captain Manuel Neuer suffering a long-term injury. This seems to leave the Premier League Livakovic’s most likely destination, with newcomers Nottingham Forest reportedly close to signing the Croatia goalkeeper in the summer for a fee between £4.2m – £8.5m, while Leicester City were also offered the 27-year-old prior to the tournament. Of course, both teams decided against the signing, but following Livakovic’s heroics in Qatar, both clubs are set to reevaluate their decision this year.

Azzedine Ounahi

It is no surprise that there are two Moroccan players on this list following the Atlas Lions’ incredible run to the World Cup semi-finals this winter. While teammate Sofyan Amrabat might be the bigger name, Azzedine Ounahi was quietly controlling the midfield for the African side in Qatar. His incredible performances at the heart of the Moroccan midfield led to transfer speculation this year, with the 22-year-old unlikely to stay at his current club side Angers, who find themselves bottom of Ligue 1. According to club president Chabane, Angers have been approached by clubs from Italy, Spain, England, and France.

Marseille are believing to be trying to fund a deal for Ounahi’s signature by selling Brazilian midfielder Gerson, while Premier League sides Leicester City and Wolverhampton Wanderers are also keen on the midfielder, who is valued at around £37m. In addition, European giants Napoli and Barcelona are also said to be monitoring Ounahi’s situation. As of now, it is difficult to clearly see where Ounahi will end up, but according to the man himself, he will choose his future club ”based on the best sporting project.”

Gôl Cymru! running rings around the World

David Collins — Tue, 27 Dec 2022 17:23:49 +0000

Wales may be out of it, but as the World Cup draws to a close the Red Wall supporters charity Gôl Cymru! has continued its work supporting children’s charities across the globe.

Their latest donation has been to Ysgol Plant Y Brics/The Brick Children School in Nepal. It’s an education and skills project which helps get migrant children into school and women into business. The World Cup host country, Qatar, sees itself as a giving rather than a receiving country, so the fans have been helping children’s causes here in Wales and across the world instead during the tournament.

‘Ysgol Plant y Brics,’ The Brick School, a registered charity, is based in the Kathmandu Valley. Many of the local villages here are almost devoid of working-age men as they emigrate to the Middle East in search of an income. With its Nepalese partner organisation Kopila Nepa, Ysgol Plant y Brics works with children who make bricks for a living, getting them into the classroom and giving them a chance to just be kids. School is not just a right, but a break from brickmaking in the valley and a chance for the children to make friends and have some fun too.

Ysgol Plant Y Brics also provides skills and literacy training for women. It is one of the most impactful programmes and has led to many women setting up their own businesses and earning their own money. This in turn, boosts the income of the families so that there is less hardship or need to be exploited abroad. Over 20 years the charity has seeded many successful small businesses so that families are now supporting themselves.

Carole Green, a trustee of the Brick School said,

‘The Nepalis and Bangladeshis are the most disadvantaged in the hierarchy of migrant workers. We are very grateful for the support of Gôl Cymru! We work in true partnership in Nepal with a professionally paid teaching team in Kathmandu. All the programmes are Nepali-devised and Nepali-led. In Wales, we are all volunteers so every penny goes directly to getting kids into school and women into business. This money from the generous Welsh fans will help us to upskill and educate more families, to improve their life chances and economic choices.’

Tom Griffiths from Gôl Cymru! said,

‘We were made very welcome in Qatar and had a great time there. But all football fans attending the World Cup will have been aware of the issues surrounding human rights and the treatment of migrant workers in the Middle East and the effect the men’s absence has on their families back home. We at Gôl Cymru! are pleased to be able to support Ysgol Plant y Brics, a Welsh charity, which is doing such great work to help Nepalese families to help themselves.’

Gôl Cymru! has been extremely busy before and during our first World Cup finals since 1958. Red Wall fans have been running non-stop for miles and children up and down the country have been singing and dancing, all to raise funds to help others. The supporters were glad to be able to return to Babyspullen in Amsterdam on the first leg of their pre-World Cup tour.’ The fans donated baby grows and toys to this remarkable charity which helps young families across the Netherlands who cannot afford the basics for their newborn babies. Gôl Cymru! first linked up with them during their visit to the Netherlands last year’s Euro 2020 campaign.

They then travelled on to meet Prague Raptors FC in the Czech Republic, a community team made up of dozens of nationalities. Daz Moss, President of the Raptors, said, ‘The team is trying to make the world a better place by supporting charities helping children suffering from malnutrition, life-threatening illness, poverty and conflict.’

Next stop was the Menyesksce home in Budapest which the supporters visited before Wales played Hungary in 2019. Gôl Cymru! also visited the Dom Klasje children’s home in Osijek, Croatia to make another donation. As well as offering shelter for children without parental care, this home provides educational and leisure activities for children from poor and vulnerable backgrounds and uses sport as a way to integrate young people into society.

The final stop on the way to Qatar was in Belgrade, Serbia, where the team returned to homes under the care of the Centre for the Protection of Infants, Children and Youths, whom they have visited numerous times since our first visit to the Serbian capital in 2003.

Back in Wales the fans themselves chose a range of charities to support. £500 worth of nappies, formula, babygrows, wipes, towels, lotion and toys were donated to Baby Bundles in Newport to help new mothers and families in need. Ingrid Wilson from Bundles said, ‘Such huge generosity from the football fans to assist babies’ families referred to us at Community House. A huge thank you to all who donated money, went shopping, knitted soft clothes, blankets and toys, and rooted out preloved equipment and clothes – all for us to pass on.’

Neil Dymock from Gôl Cymru! said,

‘This is a charity where everyone can play a part – from buying a raffle ticket in a pre-match party, donating on Just Giving, or running a marathon. We are so grateful to all the Wales fans who help us to help children here at home and abroad.’

Gôl Cymru! wants to reach every part of Wales and has given £500 to North Wales Young Carers; this will pay for the youngsters’ Christmas trip to the pantomime and for some treats at the theatre. The fans have also supported Jig-so in Cardigan which facilitates learning through play and offers support and advice on parenting skills and child development. Their final donation was to Brighter Futures in Rhyl, a community group which organises specific activities for children which include activity packs and breakfast clubs.

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Cristiano Ronaldo carried Portugal for 14 years, his teammates couldn’t carry him for 90 minutes

Karan Vinod — Mon, 12 Dec 2022 18:19:29 +0000

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Cristiano Ronaldo’s hopes of completing his trophy cabinet with the World Cup came to a shocking end as Portugal lost to Morocco.

It was one of the saddest sights in world football as Ronaldo, 37, knew that this was his last attempt at winning the coveted Jules Rimet Trophy and it ended in tears as he was sobbing before disappearing into the tunnel.

Ronaldo and his former Sporting Lisbon and Real Madrid teammate Pepe were the cornerstones of Portugal’s footballing hopes over the last 14 years. The duo has enjoyed unprecedented success during their tenure with the Los Blancos and have carried the nation’s hopes at far too many international tournaments.

Before Ronaldo came along to the international setup, Portugal had failed to qualify for 14 of their previous 17 World Cups. They didn’t qualify for 8 out of 11 European Championships and had no major trophies to their name despite producing incredible talents over the years.

This changed after the inclusion of Ronaldo and Pepe. They have qualified for every international tournament since their respective debuts and have won two trophies.

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It was this duo that played a massive role in Portugal’s 2016 Euros success. Pepe was arguably the best player of the tournament and Ronaldo carried the attack and turned it up like only Ronaldo can, especially when it mattered most.

Fernando Santos was the mastermind behind this success, the mastermind behind Cristiano Ronaldo’s greatest triumph. The former Sporting Lisbon manager found ways to galvanize his troops and get them ready for battle. Just four players in that squad plied their trade in Europe’s top-five leagues at the time, Ronaldo and Pepe representing Real Madrid, José Fonte and Cédric Soares from Southampton being the other two.

However, it was also Santos who is mainly culpable for the downfall of this Portuguese team in Qatar. The 58-year-old came up with strange tactical and personnel decisions during the World Cup and that has consistently been the case for the last four years. For instance, not starting Rafael Leão, one of the best players in Serie A, in any of the games in Qatar is baffling.

A lot was made of Santos’ decision to replace Ronaldo in the starting line-up with Gonçalo Ramos. It made sense tactically as Switzerland tend to play a high line and Portugal needed pace with their outlet pass. Santos was justified in the end as the Benfica forward scored a hattrick.

However, to not start Ronaldo against Morocco’s low-block was a mistake. In fact, starting Ronaldo and Ramos could have been the right way to line-up as coupling Ronaldo with another forward in the box could wreak havoc in the opposing defence as they cannot solely zone in on Portugal’s number 7.

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Portugal’s best moments in the game came when both of them were on the pitch together. Unfortunately, that did not last long as Ramos was hooked just after the hour mark for Leão, who isn’t a forward but rather an out and out left winger. This left Ronaldo alone in the box and with three Moroccan defenders marking him, the talisman had little to no service.

What certainly didn’t help Portugal’s cause was the abhorrent performances from the Premier League quartet of Bruno Fernandes, Rúben Dias, Bernardo Silva and Rúben Neves. Fernandes was racking up incredible numbers in Qatar this year but like the underlying narrative that has existed during his career, the midfielder went missing when it mattered most. The same can be said about Silva as his contribution to the attack was very little, if anything.

While almost all of these players will get a chance to play at the World Cup again in 2026, this was Ronaldo and Pepe’s last hurrah. The desperation on their faces was quite evident towards the end of the game, especially considering that Pepe played the match with a broken arm.

Cristiano Ronaldo will be 38 in two months’ time. Surely this was his last World Cup as he will be 41 by the time the 2026 edition rolls around, but you never know with him. Ronaldo has defied age and logic innumerable times throughout his career, but if this was the last time we’ve seen him on football’s biggest stage, then it was a bitter end to the international career of the greatest player of all time.

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The Atlas Lions on the verge

Adeyemi Adesanya — Fri, 09 Dec 2022 13:40:54 +0000

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African football is heading in the direction where; only those that invest with a developmental mindset will reap the bounties accruable to such an approach.

Morocco are leading the way on the African continent with respect to investing in the future of the game with a triangular approach to football development. The Triangular approach involves; investment in infrastructure, talent identification and human capital investment. Over the last five years or so; this has been the plan of the Moroccan football authorities; they have built some of the finest centres of excellence across the country to develop the next generation of footballers.

They have expanded their scouting and talent identification drag net to spot players of Moroccan descent all over the world; that may be willing to play for the national team. Crucially they also have adequately funded the training of their coaches across all levels.

Whilst some would say the appointment of Walid Regragui was a gamble; he had however just won the CAF Champions League for Wydad Casablanca just a few months ago. However, that is not the story; a few years ago a list of young Moroccan coaches was circulated on Social Media showing some of the World’s elite coaches that they were to follow, study and adopt their style; Walid Regragui was one of the coaches on that list.

The country is reaping these fruits bountifully; just look at how Morocco has somewhat dominated African football in the last year. Morocco are champions of the continent in club football on two fronts, Finalist at the African Women’s Nations Cup; FAR Rabat Ladies are Champions of the CAF Women’s Champions League, only a matter of time before the Men’s team win Africa’s biggest prize in the form of the AFCON.

Morocco have been a delight to watch; combining great attacking play with solid defensive organization. They have shown little respect to their so-called more illustrious counterparts. The Atlas Lions have played with a hunger and desire that is unusual to any previous Moroccan side from their recent history.

The Atlas lions are historically recorded breakers and pacesetters; they were the first African team to make it into the 2nd round of the World Cup in 1986. In 2022; they now aim to go where no other African team has been before; the Semi-finals. Ghana were a penalty and a shootout away from the Semis in 2010; this Moroccan side have shown that they have the desired mental toughness to get the job done.

If you are a fan of good omens or a believer in De Ja Vu, Morocco defeated Portugal in 1986 to achieve the record-breaking feat of landing in the second round; now in 2022; Portugal also stand in their way of breaking another record in this instance. What or Who is to say Walid Regragui and his band of Moroccan merry men won’t achieve this great feat? This is Africa’s time and a time for the previously asleep Atlas Lions to roar their way back to where they belong.

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Facts and figures as World Cup group stage ends

David Collins — Sat, 03 Dec 2022 15:48:11 +0000

The group stage of the FIFA World Cup has thrown up some amazing statistics of a tournament like no other.

After 13 days and 48 matches, the first edition of the FIFA World Cup to be hosted in the Middle East and Arab world has presented an array of facts and figures, starting with a cumulative stadium attendance of 2.45 million spectators. That equals an average of 96% occupancy and is higher than the corresponding 2.17 million figure for the 2018 edition. The highest attendance in the history of the FIFA World Cup since the 1994 final was seen at Lusail Stadium, where 88,966 fans witnessed the Argentina v. Mexico match.

On the pitch, the FIFA World Cup has faithfully reflected football’s increased competitiveness, as for the first time ever, teams from all continents have advanced to the round of 16. Likewise, three teams from the AFC (Australia, Japan and Korea Republic) have reached the knockout stages – a competition record for the Asian confederation, which previously only had two, in 2002 and 2010. Equally remarkably, for the second time, two African teams (Senegal and Morocco) have reached the knockout stages – the last occasion being in 2014.

History was also made by Stéphanie Frappart, who not only became the first woman to officiate a FIFA World Cup match, but also, together with Neuza Back and Karen Díaz Medina, formed the first all-female trio to take charge. Against Ghana, Portuguese star Cristiano Ronaldo achieved another incredible milestone by becoming the first player to score at five editions of the tournament. Many matches have attracted the best audiences of the year in their respective countries, with England v. USA becoming the most watched men’s football match on US television ever.

“The outcome of the group stage shows the extent to which more countries have acquired the tools to compete at the highest level,” said FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, Arsène Wenger. “This is the result of better preparation and analysis of the opponents, which is also a reflection of a more equal access to technology. It is very much in line with FIFA’s efforts to increase football’s competitiveness on a global scale.”

As the group stage wrapped up last night, the FIFA Fan Festival welcomed its one millionth visitor. Besides the official tournament venues, Doha’s seaside promenade – the Corniche – has attracted more than two million people since the start of the tournament, with the traditional Souq Waqif market becoming another hotspot for fans from around the world. Uruguayan and Korean fans can be proud of having reached a mighty 131 decibels at their match at Education City Stadium – a noise akin to that heard at a live rock concert.

The most compact FIFA World Cup since the inaugural edition in 1930 is also benefiting fans, teams and media representatives, with the option of attending several matches and entertainment activities per day, while operations continue to run smoothly. During the group stage, the Doha Metro and Lusail Tram networks notched up 9.19 million trips, with a daily average of 707,032 passengers.

The two international airports are comfortably accommodating the influx of fans and teams – so far, 2 million Hayya (Fan ID) applications have been received, with fans from Saudi Arabia, India, the USA, the United Kingdom and Mexico at the top of the list for tournament attendance to date. In spite of the unprecedented condensed footprint, with 24 teams staying within a 10km radius of each other, players and officials have also smoothly transferred 3,321 times in and around Doha.

“It’s been a fantastic World Cup, with groundbreaking figures and memorable moments both on and off the pitch. Fans are having an amazing time in Doha, and the whole world is following with excitement on TV as new records as set every day,” said FIFA COO World Cup, Colin Smith. “What some saw as a challenge, we saw as an opportunity. Teams, media and spectators are enjoying more matches, more festivals, more football, more fun – the compact footprint is comfortably addressing the influx of visitors through state-of-the-art infrastructure and thorough operational plans.”

“Together with the host country, we are constantly monitoring and addressing any situation that arises, but the figures already achieved and the fans celebrating together in a joyful and peaceful way throughout this group stage speak for themselves – we are on track to deliver a successful and unforgettable FIFA World Cup.”

Sixteen matches remain and the hosts fully intend the global party to continue in and around Doha.

“The fans who have joined us in Qatar for the tournament are enjoying a carnival atmosphere,” added FIFA World Cup Qatar LLC CEO, Nasser Al-Khater. The cultural exchange through football has been heart-warming for everyone. We are now looking forward to the exciting knockout rounds and welcoming thousands more fans from across the globe as they support their favourite teams all the way through to the final at the majestic Lusail Stadium on 18 December.”

It’s England v Wales!

David Collins — Tue, 29 Nov 2022 07:02:18 +0000

A clash between neighbouring rivals takes place at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium as Wales and England meet in their final FIFA World Cup 2022Group B encounter.

Wales, on one point after conceding two late goals to lose 2-0 to IR Iran last time out, can only finish above England, on four points, if they beat them by four goals or more. Should they fail to do so, England will qualify for the round of 16.

The 2018 semi-finalists will guarantee top spot with a victory, though there are many possible permutations as to the group’s final placings, with the combination of a Wales win and a draw between IR Iran and the USA taking both British sides through.

The two teams have met 103 times, Wales winning 14 contests and England 68, including the last six, among them the sides’ only previous major tournament encounter, 2-1 at UEFA EURO 2016.

Wales are unbeaten in their previous three World Cup matches against European teams (W1 D2).

England have only failed to qualify from their group once in their last 11 participations in a World Cup final competition.

England have lost only four of their last 25 FIFA World Cup group-stage matches (W11 D10).

England are three goals away from reaching the landmark of 100 goals scored at FIFA World Cup final competitions.

Harry Kane is two goals away from equalling Wayne Rooney’s record of 53 goals for England.

Gareth Bale has said this won’t be his last game for Wales. Gareth Southgate says England must match Welsh passion.

It’s a World Cup Battle of Britain!

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Iran just too hot for low key Welsh in midday heat

David Collins — Fri, 25 Nov 2022 13:02:46 +0000

Wales were reduced to 10 man against Iran in this World Cup clash when Wayne Hennessey saw red. The Welsh never really got to grips with the game throughout and lost 2-0

In the blazing heat of Persia, we also enjoyed a white hot atmosphere, with a noisy Iranian contingent in the crowd of 40,785 probably outnumbering the Men of Harlech.

The largest area of shade was in Iran’s half with Wayne Hennessey’s goal in bright Persian sunshine as the game began.

Neco Williams shot over in the early stages for Wales but Iran looked threatening, perhaps less worried by the 80 degrees heat.

Kieffer Moore stabbed a shot at Hossein Hosseini which the Iranian keeper did well to parry away at close range.

The vast Iranian support were on their feet after quarter of an hour when Ali Gholizadeh finished a neat passing move to fire past Hennessy. After some delay though the goal was chalked off for offside

Following an unproductive free kick for Wales, Iran counter attacked with speed, their fast footwork causing the Welsh problems.

Iran were finding space in midfield and Ethan Ampadu may have been lucky to escape a caution for tangling with Rezaeian Ramin. The Iranians were asking all the questions.

Nico Williams went tumbling after a very stiff looking challenge from Ramin on 23 minutes. The former Liverpool man looked unsteady as he hobbled to his feet.

Wales began to settle as the first half developed but still needed the composed defence of Joe Rodon on more than one occasion. Harry Wilson tried to make thigs happen but there was a Joe Allen shaped hole in midfield for sure.

The second half saw more of the stadium in shade than the first.

An astonishing passage of play saw Iran hit the post twice through Sardar Azmoun who was so unlucky, striking both posts with the first and third shots in a matter of seconds.

Hennessey also pulled off a wonderful safe as the ball bounced around the Welsh goal like a pinball. At the other end, a Welsh free kick came to nothing.

Dan James and Brennan Johnson joined the fray around the hour mark as Wales Boss Robert Page probably sensed the need for fresh legs.

Wales were struggling to exert any real control over this game, relying on Hennessey in goal, long balls and some desperate defending. Aaron Ramsey tried to orchestrate ingenuity but couldn’t really get a tune going.

The noise levels remained high as the vast Iranian crowd gave Azmoun a rousing reception as he left the field.

Saeid Ezatolahi went agonizingly close on 72 minutes with Hennessey beaten for once.

Page brought Joe Allen on with quarter of an hour to go. The Swansea man had not played for months but his guile and experience could prove crucial.

Ben Davies fired over on 83 minutes as Wales began to look more settled

We witnessed real drama then though as Hennessey was sent off for an ugly looking high challenge on Mehdi Taremi. Referee Mario Escobar waved yellow first but VAR said red. Hennessey was off. Danny Ward on. Ramsey made way. Hennessey would miss the England game. We may have even seen the end of a wonderful career for the Welsh keeper now.

The Red Wall tried to lift Welsh hearts but this would be tough ask now for the 10 men.

Sure enough, three-quarters of the stadium erupted in the eighth minute of added time as Rouzbeh Chesmi fired a dagger through Welsh hearts to put Iran ahead. Moments later Ramin Rezaeian added a second.

Welsh players sank to their knees. Iranians celebrated with glee.

A dramatic game had brought another victory for Asia over the West in Qatar 2022. This tournament just keeps on giving.

Unless you are Welsh.

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Canada back at the World Cup

David Collins — Wed, 23 Nov 2022 05:53:07 +0000

Canada meet Belgium on 23 November 2022 at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium, Al Rayyan

Canada return to the FIFA World Cup finals for the first time in 36 years with an opening Group F fixture against 2018 semi-finalists Belgium in Al Rayyan’s Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium. Belgium, seeking a first major international title, are making their 14th appearance at the global finals.

Ever-presents from 1982-2002, they returned for the two most recent tournaments, in Brazil – where they were quarter-finalists – and Russia – where they finished third, registering their highest ever placing.

Canada, the FIFA World Cup 2026 co-hosts, booked their place in Qatar by successfully coming through 20 qualifying fixtures as Concacaf’s top team. They will be looking to make a positive impression in Qatar in what is their second participation in FIFA World Cup history.

Belgium have not lost their opening match in their last six World Cup appearances (W4 D2). The last time they lost their opener was in 1986 against Mexico.

Unbeaten in their last 12 group-stage matches at the FIFA World Cup (W7 D5), Belgium have won seven in a row heading into this tournament. Remarkably, their last group-stage defeat was all the way back in 1994 (0-1 v. Saudi Arabia).

Canada are participating in their second FIFA World Cup, 36 years after their debut appearance at the finals in 1986.

Canada coach John Herdman is the first person to coach a team at both the men’s and women’s FIFA World Cup. He coached both New Zealand and Canada previously at the FIFA Women’s World Cup.

Canada’s Atiba Hutchinson is the oldest outfield player at Qatar 2022. He was 39 years and 285 days old at the start of the tournament.

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Its a Saudi Super Show!

David Collins — Tue, 22 Nov 2022 12:16:32 +0000

Unfancied Saudi Arabia pulled off one of the biggest shocks in football history with victory over South American champions Argentina in a pulsating atmosphere at the Lusail Stadium in Qatar.

When Lionel Messi gave his side the lead with a coolly taken early penalty, all seemed to be going to plan.

Even three disallowed Argentinian ‘goals’ and the interference of VAR did little to persuade the vast crowd that Messi’s Men would not take the three points. Messi barley broke stride as he influenced the game effortlessly. Cristian Romero of Spurs looked in control at the back.

But the biggest roar I have ever heard in a football ground greeted a goal from Saleh Alsheri to put the Saudi Arabia side level in the second half, heralding outright pandemonium in the stands.

Moments later the atmosphere flew off the radar as Salem Aldawsari fired them ahead!

Unbelievable scenes erupted around the enormous stadium, which will host the final itself next month. The Saudi Arabian contingent in the crowd of 88,012 danced and sang with an intensity I had not witnessed before in a lifetime watching football matches.

Saudi Arabia defended with a guile and tenacity we would normally expect from their highly fancied opponents as they dealt with wave after wave of intense pressure from the Argentinians.

Mohammed Alowais was in simply inspiring form in goal, saving certain goals with all parts of his body. Around him, the defence were giants in green as the noise and drama showed no signs of diminishing. Time and time again he was equal to the task, denying Messi a second goal to clutch a goalward bound header on 84 minutes.

Yellow cards appeared at regular intervals as the game became a titanic clash. Saudi defending reached levels of grit and determination that could barely be described as countless perfectly timed challenges kept the South Americans out.

As we entered an unbelievable eight added minutes, Abdulelah Alamri headed off the line. Alowais was booked. Don’t ask me why.

A late corner was cheered almost as much as a goal by the exuberant Saudi Arabian supporters. Even a hefty clearance into the stands was greeted with the joy of a national celebration.

The game was almost impossible to chronicle now as incident after incident brought new drama.

Still, still though, the Argentinian side were kept at bay. We had a stretcher on during added time and yet more heroics from Alowais as the green flags from the Arab world defiantly made a statement that this 2022 World Cup really would be like no other.

Wild scenes greeted the final whistle as football history was made here, with an intensity that we might just have to get used to.

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