On 2nd December 2010, the World woke up to the news that a nation by the name of “Qatar” are to be the 2022 FIFA World Cup hosts. Perplexed as to how a country as remote as Qatar can possibly anchor the grandest public event on the planet , many of us scratched our heads in disbelief. A lot can change over time , especially for a nation with a vision, a goal and a will to never give up despite what the odds might be. Today, Qatar has set an example of just that for the entire world to see and learn.
Al Annabi (The Maroons) conquered the AFC Cup after beating Japan and did so with style. Under the leadership of Spanish coach Felix Sanchez, the Qatar football team took Asia by a storm. On the road to the finals , the Qatari side (ranked 93 by FIFA) beat much higher ranked sides in the form of World Cup regulars Saudi Arabia and South Korea.
The narrative was set long before the finals began – Japan were up against an untamed beast who would stop at nothing to prove the world wrong. Having conceded 0 goals before the finals and scored 14 , the odds were stacked against Japan. Quick goals by prolific striker Al-Moez Ali and Hatem before the 30th minute mark saw Japan shell-shocked. Although Japan did steal a goal back in their recovery mission , a handball by captain Yoshida saw Qatar seal the deal with a cool penalty from assist-machine Afif. 3-1 and the history books were written.
Solid defensive display, sublime counter attacks and world-class finishes have not just etched Qatar’s name in Asian football folklore but also taken them to the cusp of successful times ahead as comes the FIFA World Cup in 3 years time. Moreover, it was no fluke and the numbers speak for themselves : 17 goals scored and 1 conceded. To add to that, Al-Moez Ali scored 9 goals this tournament and broke the 23 year old record of most number of goals in an AFC cup tournament set previously at 8 goals by legendary Iranian striker Ali Dae.
Amidst the rumble of regional tension and a backdrop of international instability , the Peninsular nation has somehow achieved the unthinkable. The young squad braved jeers, shoes, insults and criticism in an unwelcoming nation of UAE and did justice to their quest of hosting football’s grandest spectacle – the World Cup. The 2022 dream is underway for this ever-growing footballing nation!
