Depending upon our background we have mixed feelings regarding the Qatar world cup. However, putting politics aside, we can all agree this world cup has produced some highly entertaining encounters and caused some big upsets.
Belgium, the 2nd ranked team in international football, had been grouped. To everyone's surprise Morocco had topped Group F. Don’t get me wrong Morocco has some great talented players such as Hakim Ziyech and Archraf Hakimi but this was certainly a statement to top a group and also reach the semi-finals of a world cup. Certainly the history books say this as in 1988 was the last time an African team topped a world cup group, and Morocco became the first African team to advance to the World Cup semi-finals.
Speaking about surprises, once again Germany were knocked out in the group stage just like in Russia 2018. Japan shocked everyone by taking the top spot in Group E beating Spain and Germany. Yes, I repeat beating Spain and Germany. Germany had been knocked out and questions must be raised. Germany had a lot of talent and their young players such as Jamal Musiala and Kai Havertz had been exceptional. However the loss of the olden generation can clearly be seen. They missed the touch of Toni Kross, Marco Reus, and Mesut Özil.
There are many teams who were able to walk away with a big heart. Tunisia walked away with a win against defending champions France. Throughout the world cup they played some great football in a difficult group D. Canada should also be really proud of their performances. Half of their starting 11 grew up in refugee camps and they played exceptional football on the biggest stage known to the game. Even though the results hadn't gone in their favour they played some excellent football. And ofcourse we can’t forget to mention Saudi Arabia’s win against Messi’s Argentina which may go down as one of the biggest upsets in world cup history.
The Qatar FIFA World Cup showcased some of the greatest upsets and some say it has showcased the greatest World Cup final. Messi was able to lift the biggest trophy in world football and complete his legacy by being crowned the GOAT. Kylian Mbappe became the second person to score a hat-trick in the World Cup final since 1966, which could very well be considered the greatest individual performance by a player. It’s a matter of opinion whether the best ever World Cup was in 2022 but a 5-goal thriller really sums up what sensational World Cup we have witnessed.
By Baasil