The 2022 World Cup edition in Qatar has already raised a host of issues and discussions around the world, from talks regarding human rights to shocking results and many more.
Here are 5 major talking points to consider as the World Cup continues;
1. Management of human rights in Qatar
Since Qatar won the right to host the world cup, it has been reported that over 6000 migrant workers have died in the process of preparation for the tournament.
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Accusations of human rights abuses rocked the internet on the eve of the World Cup.
However, FIFA president Gianni Infantino has thrown his weight around Qatar and also criticised Europe for its hypocrisy.
The Qatari government looks to focus their attention on delivering a successful World Cup tournament than engaging in European political discourse.
2. No pushovers in the World Cup
Argentina witnessed a humbling defeat at the hands of Saudi Arabia in the group C opening game. It was a result that shocked the whole world, only a few would win a bet on the outcome.
Just when the dust was about to settle, Germany lost 2-1 against Japan on Wednesday afternoon.
It has not been what we expected from the big boys but then, who refuses a shocker, especially in a World tournament?
3. Is it finally “coming home”?
The English national team has a dusty cabinet for trophies, maybe it’s time it changed.
England last won a major trophy in 1966 when they won the World Cup and since then, they have always flattered in major tournaments despite having a host of world-class players in different dispensations.
The present England team guarded by Gary Southgate has bid their patience in evolving into a team of world-class talent in different areas of the pitch and also one of the top teams when you talk about squad depth.
Thrashing Iran in their group opener is a strong message to their opponents signalling the beginning of their quest for World Cup glory.
4. A new rule for “added time” during games?
Fans have noticed the huge added time at the end of each half during the world cup and they are beginning to ask questions.
However, Chairman of FIFA Referees Committee, Pierluigi Collina earlier hinted on it
“If you want more active time, we need to be ready to see this kind of additional time given. Think of a match with three goals scored. A celebration normally takes one, one-and-a-half minutes, so with three goals scored, you lose five or six minutes,” he stated.
There you have it. it was intentionally orchestrated.
5. High Injury risk
Players at the World Cup will be hoping to not be among their colleagues sidelined due to Injury.
It is sad to note that some of our favourite stars are not participating due to injury and just yesterday, France confirmed that Lucas Hernandez has injured his ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) during their match against Australia.
To think that players like Karim Benzema, Reece James, Sadio Mane, Timo Werner, and Christopher Nkunku won’t participate is depressing for football but what can we do?
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