sports
Indy Cup Football: Sheikh Russel emerge group champions beating Mohammedan
Sheikh Russel Krira Chakra emerged Group A champions to reach the quarter final of the season's curtain raiser soocer meet, the Bashundhara Group Independent Cup Football' 2022 beating Dhaka Mohammedan SC by 3-0 goals in the last group match at the Sheikh Fazlul Haque Moni Stadium in Gopalganj on Monday.
With the day's well merited victory, Sheikh Russel KC clinched the Group A title with unbeaten record securing seven points from all the three group encounters while the traditional black and while Dhaka Mohammedan also qualified for the quarterfinal as the Group A runners-up, collecting six points from three outings.
This was the first defeat for Mohammedan SC in the tourney after two consecutive wins--against Bangladesh Navy by 2-0 goals and Fortis SC by 3-1 goals while it was the 2nd successive win for Sheikh Russel KC after beating Bangladesh Navy by 2-0 goals in the previous match following their 1-1 draw with Fortis FC in the first match.
In the day's match, medio Brossou scored first for the Sheikh Russel KC in the very 2nd minute of the match (1-0), forward Mohammad Ibrahim doubled the margin in the 51st minute (2-0) while Nigerian striker Sunday Udoh sealed the fate of the match scoring the 3rd goal for the winners in the 59th minute (3-0).
In the day's other match, coming from behind, Fortis Football Academy tasted first victory in their 3rd match defeating all-losers Bangladesh Navy by 3-1 goals at the Shaheed Dhirendranath Dutta Stadium in Cumilla Monday afternoon.
Afghan striker Amiruddin Sharifi struck twice in the 17th and 44th minutes while Brazilion player Luis Carlos netted the other goal for Fortis FC in the 61st minute.
Forward Shakawat Hossain scored the lone goal for the sailors' team in the very 7th minute of the match.
FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 : Argentina vs Saudi Arabia match schedule, prediction, possible line-up, where to watch live
One of the favourites, Argentina, will kick off their FIFA World Cup 2022 campaign with a Group C match against Saudi Arabia tomorrow. Given the strength of the two sides, the Albiceleste should comfortably overcome this Asian team. Let's take a look at the Argentina vs Saudi Arabia FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 match preview.
Qatar World Cup 2022 Match Preview: Argentina vs Saudi Arabia
Argentina are overwhelmingly favourites to finish at the top of Group C by winning all three matches. The two-time champions will be aiming for a strong start when they face Saudi Arabia in their opening fixture on Tuesday. Coach Lionel Scaloni can test his squad's strength by deploying some fringe players in the contest. Whoever plays, Argentina are expected to win big against Saudi Arabia.
Read More: Qatar World Cup: Biggest party or scam in the world?
Saudi Arabia, on the other hand, will expect to put on a fighting display against the Argentine side. Because winning this match would only be a dream for the Asian side. They will likely strengthen their backline by deploying a formation that is more defensive.
World Cup 2022: France faces midfield battle against Australia
Even without the injured Karim Benzema, defending World Cup champion France has plenty of attacking power.
Most teams would love to have either Kylian Mbappe, Antoine Griezmann or Olivier Giroud in their forward line, let alone all three. They have 119 international goals between them, plus an abundance of speed, craft, experience and skill.
But France does not have the same assurances in midfield, and that is where Australia could trouble Les Bleus on Tuesday in their opening Group D match.
France struggled to beat Australia 2-1 when the teams met in their World Cup opener four years ago, and that was with a full-strength midfield.
France coach Didier Deschamps is missing the injured N’Golo Kante and Paul Pogba — his dynamic engine room from 2018. Pogba has played 91 times for France and one of his 11 goals came in the 4-2 win over Croatia in the 2018 final.
READ: Which European teams have the best chances of winning 2022 World Cup?
While Pogba’s form has been up and down since then, Kante’s consistency rarely ever dropped and he’s arguably an even bigger loss.
A tireless runner with an incredible ability to close down space, surface from anywhere to win the ball and then release it cleanly, Kante is one of the best defensive midfielders in world soccer. But he’s recovering from a hamstring operation and won’t add to his 53 international appearances.
So Deschamps faces Australia with a revamped midfield where the most experienced player is Adrien Rabiot — Pogba’s teammate at Italian club Juventus — with 29 appearances.
The 27-year-old Rabiot finally feels ready to emerge as France’s new midfield leader.
“When I played in the French youth teams, I was often more experienced than my teammates. Now I find myself in a similar position,” he said. “I feel that I’m able to help others, to lead by example. I like being in this position.”
England vs Iran FIFA World Cup 2022 LIVE Streaming: Where and how to watch online and on TV Channel, predicted XI
Know here all the details related to the live streaming of FIFA World Cup 2022 Group B match between England and Iran.
The biggest sporting event of the year FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 began on Sunday (November 20) England and Iran kick off day two of Qatar 2022 when they open up their World Cup campaigns at Khalifa International Stadium in Doha. The World Cup 2022 Group B game between England and Iran starts on Monday 21 November 2022.
Appearing at a third straight finals for the first time in their history, Iran are once again led by head coach Carlos Queiroz, who was also in charge in 2014 and 2018. The Asians, who have never previously progressed from a World Cup group stage, will be facing England for the first time. Having reached the semi-finals at World Cup 2018 and been runners-up at Euro 2020, England’s aim is to go one better again.
Read more: England Squad analysis for 2022 World Cup
England vs Iran Live Streaming of FIFA World Cup 2022 Match live streaming : Here you can get all the details as to When, Where, and How you can watch the FIFA World Cup 2022 between England and Iran Live Streaming
England take on Iran in the opening match of group B, with England dubbed big favourites over the Asian powerhouse.
Where and how to watch FIFA World Cup 2022 Iran vs England live
How to watch England vs Iran live stream in Bangladesh?
Bangladesh viewers can watch the match live on all of these channels: T Sports, PTE LTD and Viacom 18, and.
Bangladesh viewers can live stream online the World Cup games on Toffee, the digital platform powered by Banglalink.
Besides, many Facebook pages and YouTube channels also live the match.
Read More: Cristiano Ronaldo gambles on World Cup to restore reputation
How to watch England vs Iran live stream in India
In India, the World Cup is being televised on Sports18, but every game is being shown for free and in 4K via the JioCinema app. You can live stream Qatar vs Ecuador from 9.30pm IST on Sunday night.
Coverage is available in Hindi, English, Malayalam, Bengali and Tamil, and the JioCinema app is compatible with Chromecast, so you can get a big-screen experience.
Anyone outside of India who wants to watch their home World Cup coverage can just pick up a good VPN and follow the instructions above to safely live stream the action.
Read More: Can Messi and Ronaldo face each other in Qatar World Cup final?
How to watch England vs Iran live stream in Australia
Football fans in Australia can watch Qatar vs Ecuador, along with every World Cup 2022 game, on free-to-air SBS. You can tune in on TV or live stream Qatar vs Ecuador using SBS On Demand.
Just be warned that Qatar vs Ecuador kicks off at 3am AEDT in the early hours of Monday morning, with coverage beginning at 2am.
SBS on Demand is free to use and works on a range of smart devices including mobile phones, smart TVs and web browsers.
Read more: Which European teams have the best chances of winning 2022 World Cup?
How to watch England vs Iran: live stream World Cup 2022 soccer in the US without cable
Soccer fans in the US can watch Qatar vs Ecuador on FS1 and Peacock TV, with kick-off set for 11am ET / 8am PT on Sunday morning.
FS1 shares TV rights to the 2022 World Cup group stage with Fox, but Fox will be showing every game of the knockouts.
England vs Iran live stream without cable
If you don't have cable TV, a cord-cutting service is what you need for instant access to Fox and FS1. Sling Blue is the cheapest option. It's $40 per month but you can get your first month half-price with this discount.
FuboTV is another good option. It carries both Fox and FS1, and over 100 channels besides, and allows you to watch the World Cup 2022 in 4K HDR. It's more expensive at $69.99 a month, but first there's a FREE FuboTV trial.
Read More: Portugal Squad Analysis for 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar
Every game of the World Cup is also being shown on Peacock TV, but the catch is that commentary will be in Spanish. To make up for that, Qatar vs Ecuador and a few other games are being shown for FREE. The Peacock price comes in at $4.99 a month and the service also offers live coverage of the NFL, EPL and WWE.
If you subscribe to Sling, Peacock or any other US streaming service, and find yourself unable to access coverage because you're out of the country, consider using a VPN – we rate ExpressVPN as the best of the best.
How to watch England vs Iran live stream in UK
Football fans in the UK can watch a England vs Iran live stream for free on BBC iPlayer, along with many more World Cup 2022 games, as coverage of the tournament is split evenly between the BBC and ITV.
Read more: Message of inclusion imbues Qatar World Cup opening ceremony
England vs Iran kicks-off at 4pm GMT on Sunday afternoon, with coverage beginning at 3pm.
Every BBC game will be on BBC TV channels in HD and also live streamed on BBC iPlayer in glorious 4K HDR. Just make sure you possess a valid TV license and that your device is 4K-compatible with iPlayer.
Away from home in the UK right now? No worries:
Use ExpressVPN to watch BBC iPlayer from abroad.
BBC iPlayer is free to use and works across a wide range of devices including smart TVs, laptops, games consoles, mobile phones, tablets and streaming sticks. You can watch all the other World Cup 2022 live streams for free on ITV Hub.
Read More: Why Maradona's 'Hand of God' goal is priceless -- and unforgettable
How to watch England vs Iran live stream in Canada
TSN is the place to watch every 2022 World Cup soccer game in Canada. If you get the channel as part of your cable deal, you'll be able to log in with the details of your provider for access to a Qatar vs Ecuador live stream.
Kick-off is at 11am ET / 8am PT on Sunday morning, with coverage beginning at 9am ET / 6am PT.
If you don't have cable, you can subscribe to TSN on a streaming-only basis for $19.99 a month or $199.90 per year.
If you decide to subscribe, or already have, remember you can take your favorite sports streaming service with you wherever you go – just try our No. 1 overall rated VPN 100% risk-free for 30-days and follow the instructions
How to watch live England vs Iran Match live from Iran and other countries?
If you're abroad during World Cup 2022, and want to tune into your usual home coverage, you'll most likely find yourself geo-blocked and will need to use a VPN to unlock your access.
A VPN is a piece of software that allows you to change your apparent location and World 2022 live streams from any country and streaming service you need. They're easy to use and super-secure. We rate ExpressVPN as the best VPN for streaming.
Read More: France Squad Analysis for 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar
What time and date will the FIFA World Cup 2022 England vs Iran match be played?
The FIFA World Cup 2022 match England vs Iran match will be played on Sunday - 21 November at 7:00 PM IST.
England vs Iran Playing IX
England projected starting 11 vs Iran
(3-4-2-1, right to left): 1. Pickford (GK) – 5. Stones, 15. Dier, 7. Maguire – 3. Shaw, 4. Rice, 22. Bellingham, 12. Trippier – 10. Sterling, 20. Foden – 9. Kane
Iran projected starting 11 vs England
(4-1-3-2, right to left): 1. Beiranvand (GK) – 2. Moharrami, 13. Kanaani, 19. Hosseini, 3. Hajsafi – 6. Ezatolahi – 17. Gholizadeh, 21. Nourollahi, 7. Jahanbakhsh – 9. Taremi, 10. Ansarifard.
Read More: Germany Squad Analysis for 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar
England Squad analysis for 2022 World Cup
It’s been 56 years since England won the World Cup. Although they approach the tournament with excellent players each World Cup, they fail to amaze the fans. But, this time, the team seems to have a good rhythm among the players. Under Gareth Southgate, England reached the semi-finals of the 2018 World Cup and lost the Euro 2020 final to Italy in a tiebreaker.
So, this time, can England play the ultimate game? Is England going to win the World Cup title after 56 years? The Three Lions are going to the World Cup for the seventh time in a row, and they will be joined by Wales and Iran from Qatar World Cup Group B.
England team announced for 2022 World Cup in Qatar
Role
Players
Goalkeepers
Jordan Pickford (Everton), Aaron Ramsdale (Arsenal), Nick Pope (Newcastle)
Defenders
Kieran Trippier (Newcastle), Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool), Kyle Walker (Manchester City), Benjamin White (Arsenal), Harry Maguire (Manchester United), John Stones (Manchester City), Eric Dier (Tottenham), Conor Coady (Everton), Luke Shaw (Manchester United)
Midfielders
Declan Rice (West Ham), Jude Bellingham (Borussia Dortmund), Kalvin Phillips (Manchester City), Jordan Henderson (Liverpool), Conor Gallagher (Chelsea), Mason Mount (Chelsea)
Forwards
Harry Kane (Tottenham), Callum Wilson (Newcastle), Marcus Rashford (Manchester United), Raheem Sterling (Chelsea), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), Phil Foden (Manchester City), Jack Grealish (Manchester City), James Maddison (Leicester City)
Read More: Which European teams have the best chances of winning 2022 World Cup?
English coach Southgate announced the 26-member team for the 22nd appearance of the World Cup. He announced the World Cup squad with regular faces on November 10. England has a very talented pool of players, but their recent form is not promising. Also, their creative options are not very desirable. Harry Kane, one of the best strikers in the world, is joined by young midfielders like Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham.
The only surprise in England’s World Cup team is Leicester City star, James Maddison. After three years, this English midfielder returned to the national team just before the World Cup. This time England is going to Qatar with a much-expected team.
Midfielder Kalvin Phillips has returned from injury. However, Harry Maguire survived in the World Cup team despite poor performance and various criticisms. However, Fikayo Tomori, Evan Toney, and Jared Bowen did not make the team.
Read More: Toffee set to livestream FIFA World Cup Qatar'2022 beginning on Sunday
This time, Jordan Pickford is getting the responsibility of handling the English goalpost. But Southgate may suffer in defense. With Reece James and Ben Chilwell sidelined due to injury, the English coach will have to rely on Maguire and Arnold, who are out of form.
However, the English attack is full of stars. With so many options, Southgate will face difficulties in making the starting XI.
England team analysis for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar
Although Brazil, Argentina, France, and Portugal are the favorites to win the World Cup, they are not the most expensive team. The most expensive team in terms of current market value is team England. Let’s see some of the expensive key players.
Harry Kane, forward
Not only England but Harry Kane is one of the best strikers in the world right now. He is now physically fit and injury-free. The 29-year-old striker has a physio working round the clock. He has been in good form for Tottenham.
Read More: Germany Squad Analysis for 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar
The biggest motivation for him will be to surpass Wayne Rooney, who scored 53 goals for the national team; just two more goals are needed to become England’s all-time leading scorer.
It will certainly surprise everyone if Harry does not surpass Rooney in Qatar. He was the joint-top scorer for non-penalty goals at Euro 2020 (4 with Czech Republic’s Patrik Schick). Joint top scorer in this year’s World Cup qualifiers (12 with Memphis Depay of the Netherlands).
Declan Rice, midfield
23-year-old West Ham captain Declan Rice is a regular member of the current England squad. He lets others play, and his ability to be in the right place at the right time has been an invaluable defensive asset for England.
Read More: France Squad Analysis for 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar
No one but Rice can give this defense to Gareth Southgate. His ability to win the ball and positional discipline will give Bellingham the power forward in attack. England’s attack will always rely on his efficient passing, so his success or failure will largely determine the future of the England team.
Benjamin White, defense
25-year-old Ben White, who plays in Arsenal, can play in all three positions, center back, right back, and defensive midfield. However, in this year’s World Cup, he may also have to play at left back due to injury. Because the team’s regular left-back, Chelsea’s Ben Chilwell, has been ruled out due to injury.
Jude Bellingham, midfield
Jude Bellingham is the only England player selected from outside the English league. The 19-year-old midfielder plays for Borussia Dortmund. He will play the biggest role in filling the lack of a creative midfielder in the team. Teams will look to him to get forward with the ball and make the final pass inside the penalty box.
Read More: FIFA World Cup 2022: Things you need to know
Phil Foden, forward
Manchester City’s 22-year-old Phil Foden is considered one of the best young players in the world. He plays on the left foot but can play on the right wing when the team needs it. Although he is not physically strong, the ball sticks to his feet like glue and can easily trick the opposition player. He is a natural talent and also plays in the ‘false nine’ position if the team needs it.
Final Words
But can the England team really go far? They have had no win in the last 6 Nations Cup matches. Lost 4 and drew 2. They were beaten 4-0 by Hungary in June. However, England has qualified for the World Cup by being the champion in Group ‘I’ in the European region in the World Cup-2022 qualifiers.
If everything goes well, such as if England becomes the group champion from Group B’ and, on the other hand, Senegal or Ecuador becomes the runner-up from Group ‘A’ then England will not face difficulties in defeating Senegal or Ecuador in the second round. But in that case, they will likely face France in the quarter-finals. And the farewell bell for the English team in Qatar World Cup can ring from there.
Read More: Why Maradona's 'Hand of God' goal is priceless -- and unforgettable.
Which European teams have the best chances of winning 2022 World Cup?
The World Cup trophy has been in Europe for a long time. Brazil became the champion in 2002. After that, four European countries took the cup in the following four tournaments. From that point, it seems Latin teams are having a bad time in World Cup. In addition to that top four European teams, such as Germany, Spain, France, and Portugal, have an excellent squad at Qatar World Cup. So, there is a good chance that the FIFA World Cup trophy 2022 may remain in Europe.
Table: Power Ranking of Four European teams Participating in FIFA Football World Cup 2022
Team
Power Ranking
Germany
3
Spain
4
France
5
Portugal
10
Source: Goal.com
4 Potential European Teams to Win the 2022 Qatar World Cup Trophy
Among the 32 World Cup teams, 13 of them are from Europe. While one of the favorites, Italy, is out of the tournament, Germany, Spain, France, and Portugal join the tournament as favorites. However, the other 9 teams also have a good chance to surprise the world. But we will focus on these four teams. Let’s see the analysis of the potential of Germany, Spain, France, and Portugal in the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Read More: Argentina or Brazil: Which team's prospects look better in Qatar World Cup?
France
Table: France Squad at a glance
Positions
Players Who can Make the Difference
Defend
Rapahel Varane, William Saliba
Midfield
Eduardo Camavinga
Attack
Kylian Mbappe, Antonine Griezmann, Ousmane Dembele
French coach Didier Deschamps has announced the final squad for the 2022 World Cup with 11 players from the team that won the World Cup in Russia. The 25-member squad was announced at a press conference in Paris.
Midfielders N’Golo Kante and Paul Pogba are out of the squad due to injuries. However, Karim Benzema, who won the Ballon d’Or this year, returned to the attack. But Benzema is also out of the tournament as he was injured during the training session.
Defending champions France have not performed much better in the Nations League. However, some uniqueness has been noticed in their game. Their previous formation seems to have 4-2-3-1. However, with Benzema’s inclusion, Deschamps might have played a 3-4-1-2 formation. Now that Benzema is out, the manager will have to think of a new formation or use the 4-2-3-1.
Read More: France Squad Analysis for 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar
Mbappe will play completely in the role of striker while Griezmann helps him from behind. As Varane is doubtful, Arsenal defender William Saliba could come in that place. He is also young, which is both positive and negative for the team because of his experience level.
Young players can also be seen in front of the stoppers. Since Pogba and Kante are gone, Real Madrid’s Eduardo Camavinga and Aurelien Tchouameni will play in their place. Both of them are solid midfielders. Deschamps always introduces new tactics using young players. But it must also be said that Deschamps is the kind of coach who decides the formation after seeing the opponent. At this stage, however, there is not much room for experimentation. But they have much more talented footballers.
All 23 of France’s squad are world-class players. There are some of them who have the ability to turn the match at any time. Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele are two of the best young players in the world of football today. Apart from this, there are great players like Nabil Fekir and Antoine Griezmann. Any one of them has the power to influence the outcome of a match in a moment of magic.
Read More: Qatar Squad analysis for 2022 FIFA Football World Cup
Overall, Coach Didier Deschamps is the biggest tonic of the France team who was the captain of France’s winning 1998 World Cup team. He has been the coach of France since 2012. As a result, Deschamps got the opportunity to organize his own team for a long time. And we have seen the outcome of the 2018 World Cup. Hence, France has a great chance to retain the World Cup.
Spain
Table: Spain Squad at a glance
Positions
Players Who Can Make the Difference
Defense
Jordi Alba, Pau Torres
Midfielder
Sergi Busquets, Gavi, Pedri, Koke
Attack
Ferran Torres, Pablo Sarabia, Morata
Spain grabbed their long-deserved World Cup in 2010. There isn’t much history in football that won so many top tournaments within a decade. With Cassius, Iniesta, Puyol, and Xavi, Spain has passed its golden time.
But, they failed miserably in the following two World Cups as they struggled to pass the group stage and second round. However, under the coaching of Luis Enrique, a new group of stars has started to make the Spanish dream of winning the World Cup again. Will they get their second title?
Read More: Messi or Ronaldo: Who has better chance at leading team to FIFA World Cup win?
Time will answer that question. But, the Spain team, built with a mixture of youth and experience, has the ability to do great things.
Goalkeeper Unai Simon will be Enrique’s first choice under the posts. However, the Spain coach has excellent options in the goalkeeper position. Robert Sánchez and David Raya are also capable of playing their own roles if needed.
Spain is also very strong in defense. Cesar Azpilicueta, Pau Torres, Erik García, and Jordi Alba are very effective in adapting to any situation. Pedri and Koke will be upfront with Sergio Busquets in the midfield.
Read More: 5 players who can win the Golden Boot at Qatar World Cup
19-year-old young Pedri is considered one of the surprises in this World Cup. Eyes will be on Rodri too. How Enrique utilizes the Manchester City star, who has great passing ability, could also play a role in shaping the course of Spain’s game.
And in the forward line, Enrique will rely on Ferran Torres, Pablo Sarabia, and Morata. They can be seen in multiple roles, even by changing positions. Apart from this, stars like Dani Olmo, Ansu Fati, Gavi, or Nico Gonzalez will be waiting for an opportunity from the bench as an alternative even if they do not get a place in the eleven.
It can be said that Enrique has all the enviable options in his hands, which can cause this coach to have a lot of trouble in arranging the eleven. All in all, the mix of youth and experience in the Spain team is quite good.
Read More: FIFA World Cup: 5 players who can win the Golden Ball in Qatar
All in all, Spain’s way of attacking may be in a 2-3-5 formation, where the fullbacks come forward as an attacking and possession-based team, and the wingers play inverted roles.
In the recent matches they have won, the results seem to be seen that they have struggled. But Enrique’s team was much ahead of the opponent in possession of the ball in almost all the matches. However, scoring does not reflect such strong football.
Apparently, Spain is heading a team like the 2010 World Cup. After France, they have a huge chance to win the World Cup.
Read More: Argentina Squad analysis for 2022 World Cup in Qatar
Portugal
Table: Portugal Squad at a glance
Positions
Players Who cCanMake the Difference
Defense
Ruben Dias, Joao Cancelo
Midfield
Bernardo Silva, Bruno Fernandes
Attack
Rafael Leao, Cristiano Ronaldo
Portugal’s best success at the World Cup is two semi-final appearances. However, this year Portugal has a young, energetic team under Cristiano Ronaldo’s captaincy.
This may be the last World Cup for the 37-year-old star, Ronaldo. He will definitely want to grab the desired trophy. However, in addition to Ronaldo, there are a few other stars in the Portugal team who can change the game.
Read More: Portugal Squad Analysis for 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar
With Manchester City’s Bernardo Silva, Joao Cancelo, Ruben Dias, Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes, and AC Milan’s Rafael Leao, this time Portugal has a promising team. All these players have been in great form in their club matches. Although the squad is good, Portugal has never played a World Cup final before.
Overall, team Portugal mostly depends on Ronaldo. Other players’ lack of experience in big tournaments may hold the team back. Also, Portugal’s knockout against Belgium in Euro 2021 also portrays a poor team performance.
However, they have easy opponents in the group stage. Despite being a good squad, Portugal has a 50-50 chance.
Read More: Why Maradona's 'Hand of God' goal is priceless -- and unforgettable
Germany
Table: German Squad at a glance
Positions
Players Who can Make the Difference
Goalkeeping
Manuel Neuer
Defense
Antonio Rudiger
Attack
Jamal Musiala, Thomas Muller
Germany, the 2014 World Cup champions, was eliminated in the first round in Russia four years ago. Never since World War II has Germany been eliminated before the quarter-finals of two consecutive international football tournaments. There is not much optimism about Germany in this year’s World Cup in Qatar.
Even the German team doesn’t have much hope for themselves. This is evident from the words of Antonio Rudiger, one of the most important stars of the team. The German defender of Real Madrid thinks that it will be a big ‘shock’ if Germany becomes the champion in Qatar World Cup.
Read More: Germany Squad Analysis for 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar
This time, such a Germany is going to play the World Cup in Qatar, about whom the British media, The Guardian says, “The Germany team are at a historic low.”
Germany was knocked out in the group stage at the FIFA World Cup in Russia four years ago and failed to make it past the second round after losing to England at the Euros.
After winning the World Cup in 2014, many of their golden generations quit the game. In those places, the replacement was not really done that way. Muller is still their hope in scoring goals. The team did not do well in the Nations League either. All in all, nothing big can be expected from them. But it is also true Hansi Flick will try to build a combination with this team.
Read More: 5 rising stars to watch for in FIFA World Cup 2022
Apart from Muller, 19-year-old midfielder Jamal Musiala is another hope for the team. Musiala’s big strength is his build, and he can move through defenses quickly because of his physical build. Another special thing about Musiala is that he is good with both feet; his shot power is quite good at this age.
Overall, Germany has almost zero chance of surviving in this World Cup unless any miracle happens.
Final Words
This is the World Cup stage, and anything can happen. Though several countries from Europe-America are making strong claims for the championship, it is difficult to say which country will win. So far, we have analyzed the potentials of four European squads including Germany, Spain, France, and Portugal in the 2022 FIFA World Cup. However, as per the analysis, if we have to pick from Europe, France has the ultimate chance.
Read More: Brazil Team Analysis for 2022 World Cup in Qatar
Djokovic matches Federer's record with 6th ATP Finals title
Novak Djokovic claimed a record-equaling sixth ATP Finals title by beating the third-seeded Casper Ruud on Sunday to top a fantastic finish to the season for the Serb.
Djokovic won 7-5, 6-3 to secure his first title at the event since 2015 and match Roger Federer’s record.
The 35-year-old Djokovic, who had lost his two previous finals at the event, raised his arms out and smiled broadly after sealing the match with an ace.
“Seven years has been a long time,” Djokovic said. "At the same time, the fact that I waited seven years makes this victory even sweeter and even bigger.
Read more: Djokovic expected to be granted visa to compete in Australian Open
“A lot of nerves ... I missed a couple of forehands in the last game when I was serving for it. I had nerves, but I am really grateful to be able to serve the match out. I had a big ace to close out."
Djokovic became the oldest champion at the prestigious year-end tournament and also earned the largest payday in tennis history as he walked away with $4.7 million for claiming the ATP Finals trophy undefeated.
"I made him run, made him play," Djokovic said. "I was looking to be very aggressive and it worked great. I am really pleased with the performance.”
It was Ruud’s fourth defeat in a major championship match this year after also losing finals at Miami, Roland Garros and the U.S. Open. Ruud has never won a set against Djokovic in four meetings.
“In the end it’s been disappointing to end up losing these big finals,” Ruud said. “Overall, if you gave me an offer to end the year at No. 3, play the finals that I’ve played, at the 1st of January this year I would probably sign the contract right away. No doubt about it.
Read more: Djokovic 2 sets down, rallies for 26th straight at Wimbledon
“It gives me motivation and a hunger to maybe next time — if I ever get to another final like this — I hope I can learn from what I have done this year and not been able to do and see how it goes.”
Djokovic started strongly in Turin and had two break points in Ruud’s very first service game. The Norwegian managed to recover although he was also forced to save another break point in the eighth game.
Djokovic finally broke Ruud’s serve at the fourth time of asking. And it was at a crucial moment, on set point, and he ecstatically pumped his fist in the air after Ruud sent a backhand long.
The seventh-seeded Djokovic broke again in the fourth game of the second set and there was no way back for Ruud.
Djokovic has ended the year with an 18-1 record after winning trophies in Tel Aviv and Astana before reaching the Paris Masters final. His five titles this season also include triumphs at Wimbledon and in Rome.
And his coach, former second-ranked Goran Ivanisevic, had a stark warning for Djokovic's rivals.
“He’s practicing even harder than when he was 22," Ivanisevic said. "That’s why he’s still so good and that’s why he’s still going to be even better.”
Message of inclusion imbues Qatar World Cup opening ceremony
Oscar-winning actor Morgan Freeman extended one yellow-gloved hand to a FIFA World Cup ambassador suffering from a rare spinal disorder in an image meant to represent inclusion in a country facing international criticism over its human rights record.
It wasn’t the biggest moment of Sunday’s seven-act World Cup opening ceremony ahead of the match between host country Qatar and Ecuador. The largest cheers were reserved for the Mideast and African leaders watching from their luxury suites in Bedouin-tent-inspired Al Bayt Stadium.
In fact, it was Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani who drew thunderous applause in a short speech delivered in Arabic from the suite.
“We have worked hard, along with many people, to make it one of the most successful tournaments,” he said. “We have exerted all efforts and invested for the good of all humanity.”
He was seated between FIFA president Gianni Infantino and his father, Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, who secured the World Cup for the tiny gulf nation 12 years ago.
“How beautiful it is for people to put aside what divides them in order to celebrate their diversity and what brings them together at the same time,” Sheikh Tamim said, his words translated into English on a video screen inside the stadium.
“I wish all the participating teams a magnificent football performance, high sportsmanship, and a time full of joy, excitement and delight for you all,” he continued. “And let there be days that are inspiring with goodness and hope.”
He then said, “I welcome you and good luck to all,” in his only words spoken in English.
Sheikh Hamad, viewed as the modernizer of Qatar during his 18 years as ruler, further delighted the crowd by autographing an official World Cup shirt handed to him by his son. He then held the shirt up to the crowd.
Qatar, home to 3 million people, most of them migrant workers, has spent more than $200 billion on preparation for the World Cup. Seven new stadiums were built, including the 60,000-seat Al Bayt Stadium north of Doha.
The opening ceremony was meant to introduce Qatar to the world through its culture with a theme of “bridging distances.” Creative director Ahmad Al Baker wanted the ceremony to signify “a gathering for all mankind, an invitation to come together as one, bridging all differences with humanity, respect and inclusion.”
Read more: Qatar World Cup: No alcohol sales permitted at stadiums
“Finally, we have reached the opening day, the day you have been eagerly waiting for,” Sheikh Tamim said. “We will follow, and with us the whole world, God willing, the great football festival, in this spacious ambience for human and civilized communication.
“People of different races, nationalities, faiths and orientations will gather here in Qatar, and around screens on all continents to share the same exciting moments.”
His words hit the mark as Sheikh Tamim was joined in the stadium suite by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi, two leaders who had boycotted Qatar for years. Not present were the leaders of Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates, the two other nations involved in the boycott.
There were no major Western leaders in attendance, as Qatar is under intense scrutiny for its treatment of the migrant workers who prepared the nation for the World Cup, as well as the LGBTQ community. Gay and lesbian sex is criminalized in Qatar.
But among those who did attend the opening match were U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres, Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, Senegalese President Macky Sall, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and Rwandan President Paul Kagame.
Kuwait’s crown prince came, along with the director-general of the World Health Organization and Djibouti’s president. Also present was Jordan’s King Abdullah II.
They listened to BTS' Jung Kook, while Qatari singer and producer Fahad Al Kubaisi debuted the single “Dreamers,” produced specifically for the World Cup.
Then came remarks from Infantino, who spoke in Arabic, Spanish and finally English to officially open the tournament.
“Dear friends, welcome, welcome, to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022,” Infantino said in English. “Welcome to celebrate football because football unites the world. And now let’s welcome the teams and let the show begin.”
As “The Business” by Tiesto blasted over the speakers, Qatar and Ecuador took to the field and the World Cup officially began.
Read more: Enner Valencia stars as Ecuador beat Qatar in World Cup 2022 opener
Luis Enrique more than just a coach for Torres
Luis Enrique is more than just a coach for Spain forward Ferran Torres. He is also the father of the Barcelona player’s girlfriend — and that’s no problem for them at the World Cup.
Torres dates the 20-year-old daughter of Luis Enrique, Sira Martínez, and says he and the coach have done well, separating work and family.
“The coach and I are being able to separate when we are family and when we are coach and player,” the 22-year-old Torres said Sunday in Qatar, where Spain will play in Group E.
He and Sira have not hidden their relationship, but the forward has not often spoken publicly about it.
“You have to deal with it naturally,” Torres said. “It is what it is, and we have been dealing with it very well.”
Read more: Barcelona joins Qatar World Cup boycott; will not host public viewings
Luis Enrique brought up Torres’ relationship with his daughter in one of his appearances as a streamer on Twitch. When asked about which player he felt was the most similar to him when he used to play, Luis Enrique — a former midfielder for Spain’s national team and for Barcelona — had a long pause and then said, laughing: “This one is very easy for me. It’s Ferran Torres. Because if not, my daughter will get me and cut my head off.”
Torres hinted he was watching the stream when Luis Enrique made the joke.
“I’m a fan of his streams. Every night we are waiting to watch him and we have a good time with it,” Torres said. “He jokes a lot. It was something that came up live, it was a joke.”
Torres is one of the many youngsters Luis Enrique picked for Spain’s revamped squad. He hasn’t played many minutes with Barcelona under coach Xavi Hernández, but started for Spain in the two Nations League matches in September. He also came off the bench in the World Cup warmup against Jordan last week.
Torres plays more on the sides but can also be used at the top of the attack at the striker position, where Luis Enrique only brought Álvaro Morata to his squad.
“We have eight forwards and that helps,” said Torres, who feels like good performances in Qatar may help his case at the club level with Barcelona. “The World Cup may work as a trampoline for me and many other players.”
Spain is trying to win a second World Cup title after lifting the trophy for the first time in 2010 in South Africa. The team’s first match in Qatar is on Wednesday against Costa Rica. The team will then face Germany and Japan.
Read more: Real Madrid show Barcelona still have a long way to go
Enner Valencia stars as Ecuador beat Qatar in World Cup 2022 opener
Ecuador outclassed and outplayed Qatar in the opening game of the FIFA World Cup 2022. In the process, Qatar became the first host nation to lose its opening match ever.
Ecuador 2 - 0 Qatar
Ecuador started in fairytale fashion as captain and record goalscorer Enner Valencia gave them the lead from the penalty spot in the 16th minute. La Tricolour doubled their lead in the 31st minute when Valencia's header beat Qatari goalkeeper Saad AlSheeb.
READ: FIFA earns record $7.5b in revenues for current World Cup period
Qatar looked better in the second half as Felix Sanchez's men created a few goal-scoring opportunities, but in the end, they were not able to break down the "Yellow wall"
Aftermath
Ecuador are now unbeaten in their last 8 games and haven't conceded a goal in their last 7 games. With 3 points, Ecuador stand at the top of Group A, while Qatar are at the bottom.