The FIFA World Cup is one of the most exciting sporting events that will be center stage in Qatar from November 21 to December 18, 2022. The 32-team international futbol (soccer) event brings together the best teams and players from around the world.
Players including Ronaldo, Neymar, Messi, Mbappe, Kane, De Bryne, Pulisic and Davies will be transitioning from their club team to compete for their countries.
Competing in eight stadiums in and around Qatar’s capital, Doha, hundreds of millions will be tuning in on their televisions. But, how do you attend this extraordinary event? We have you covered! We’ll address this along with some interesting facts regarding this year’s World Cup.
Why was Qatar Chosen as the 2022 World Cup Host?
In 2010, Qatar clinched the rights to the World Cup after winning a ballot of FIFA’s executive members. Also in the running were USA, South Korea, Japan and Australia. Although there was plenty of controversy surrounding the bid to Qatar, their message was based upon attracting new futbol fans in the Middle East and was in line with Sepp Blatter’s (former FIFA President) goal to expand the game worldwide.Why Isn’t the World Cup in July?
Initially during the FIFA bids, countries were supposed to host in July including Qatar. Qatar’s bid overcame concerns about heat as officials said they will build air-conditioned stadiums. In 2015 the FIFA governing body concluded that a summer World Cup in 120-degree temps would bring unneeded problems and possible health concerns so it was moved (gratefully) to the cooler months of November and December.Who Are the Favorites to Win?
Similar to previous World Cups, these teams are favored by oddsmakers: Brazil, France, England and Spain. In the next tier to win it all is Argentina, Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands.How Will the United States Do?
Although they missed the 2018 World Cup, the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) should be able to compete but are far from favorites. They landed in an intriguing group that includes England, Iran and Wales. Leading the USMNT is current Chelsea player and Hershey, PA native, Christian Pulisic. He will certainly be a player to watch.What is the World Cup Schedule?
The tournament will follow along the lines of recent editions with a 32-team group stage which whittles the field down to 16 teams — only the top two teams from each of the eight groups survive. Here is the schedule:- Group stage: Nov. 21-Dec. 2
- Round of 16: Dec. 3-6
- Quarterfinals: Dec. 9-10
- Semifinals: Dec. 13-14
- Third-place match: Dec. 17
- Final: Dec. 18
