Hosts Qatar, who were playing in the FIFA World Cup for the first time, Tuesday lost against Netherlands 2-0 in their last group stage clash at Al Bayt Stadium. Cody Gakpo opened the scoring in the 26th minute before Frenki de Jong doubled the lead in the 49th minute.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino watched the Group A clash that was watched by 66,784 fans. Fans attending the match were thrilled with organization of the 32-team event.
Though Qatar failed to qualify for the Round of 16 the organization of the Qatar 2022 has been widely acclaimed and praised by sports experts, former players and visiting ministers and fans. The generosity of the host nation Qatar and the local culture and traditions, the Arab cuisine, the transport arrangements and fan zone activities have all won applause from one and all.
The hosts have been able to dispel misconceptions about the Arab culture and the Middle East region by excellent experience provided to the visitors from across the World.
Football’s showpiece event has provided plenty of excitement so far – plus a host of surprising results. Fans from across the globe are enjoying the matches, along with the vast array of entertainment and cultural events taking place across the country.
Former Kuwaiti national team striker Dr. Jassim al-Huwaidi praised Qatar's tremendous efforts in hosting the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
Al-Huwaidi said that Qatar's success in organizing the World Cup is the result of a great work and creativity at all levels, stressing that Qatar was able to attract the world’s attention with its excellence in organizing the biggest global football event.
“Qatar's dream has become a reality. Since it won the honour the host the 2022 World Cup, Qatar has exerted diligent efforts in order to present the World Cup in the best way possible. Everyone watched the splendid and legendary opening at Al Bayt Stadium, which will be memorable in history, not to mention the great creativity in organizing the matches. Now, as the tournament reaches its eighth day, everyone is talking about the great capabilities of Qatar, a country that is small in size but large by its people who left luminous fingerprints proving their great capabilities to the whole world, al-Huwaidi said.
Mexico legend Luis Hernandez is also enjoying the festive atmosphere at the Qatar 2022. Hernandez, who appeared in two editions of the tournament and famously scored four goals at France ’98, expects the excitement to build over the coming weeks.
Qatar's midfielder #12 Karim Boudiaf (L) fights for the ball with Netherlands' midfielder #15 Marten de Roon during the Qatar 2022 World Cup Group A match between the Netherlands and Qatar at the Al-Bayt Stadium in Al Khor. AFP