FIFA World Cup Fever

Although not as appreciated in the USA, the rest of world goes crazy during the four weeks of World Cup soccer. 

Due to the large quantity and diverse origin of expats, Qatar is a perfect place to watch the matches amongst an international audience. People from all around the world gather to watch their national teams.  This Algerian man, his wife, and son are gearing up for match between USA and Algeria.

And since Qatar is a "bidding nation" for the 2022 World Cup, the government is really hyping their support for the event; including the creation of big screen venues all over Doha to further promote the cause. Every hotel, restaurant, and even Souq Waqif has big screens broadcasting all the matches. Football frenzy has hit Qatar.  To see what Qatar has planned for 2022 go to this link:

http://www.qatar2022bid.com/

In the USA's final Group Round match, the American team faced a win-or-go-home situation against a feisty Algerian team. Along with my work mates,  I wanted to watch this critical game at the Souq along with the hundreds of Algerian fans.  Even before the match started, the Algerians were already singing and rooting their national team on at fever pitch. I was surprised how many USA supporters were also attending, so we all added to the frenzy with hoots and hollers during the match. ( I found out later that many Egyptians were rooting for the American team, because during the World Cup Qualifing matches, Algeria had narrowly edged Egypt out of contention on a contested call. Sour grapes.)

In the end, the USA won in dramatic fashion.  Landon Donovan got the vital winner in the second minute of injury time just as it seemed the USA was about to go out of the tournament. Instead the result meant they finished top of Group C ahead of England on goal difference.

But the Algerian fans were good sports and continued their celebration even after the loss. I had a great time talking about the game with some of fans.  Although disappointed in the loss, they were happy for their national team....and heck, it was a good excuse to have a good time.  So hey dude, let's party.

If Qatar ends up winning the 2022 bid, it's because they have the money do what most other countries can only dream of.  But with all the money that Qatar has to throw at this effort, one can only "expect amazing..."