win a trip to qatar world cup

Win a VIP Experience at FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ with Fifa+ Collect

• Quality Automatic Automatic HD
• Speed Normal
• Subtitle Options
• Font family Default
• Font color Default
• Font opacity Default
• Font size Default
• Background color Default
• Background opacity Default
• Window color Default
• Window opacity Default
• Character edge style Default
• Monospaced Serif
• Proportional Serif
• Monospaced Sans-Serif
• Proportional Sans-Serif
• Drop Shadow
• , selected descriptions off

This is a modal window.

• Powered by THEOplayer 2023.3.0

Every pack purchased on the Official FIFA Digital Collectibles Platform offers automatic entry into the prize draw. Enter before 20 November

FIFA+ Collect , the official digital collectibles platform built on the Algorand blockchain, is offering special VIP experience giveaways for football fans to attend FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™.

The “Own It, Win It, Live It” programme begins today and you can enter by clicking here . The final day to enter is 20 November, the day the World Cup starts.

Each VIP experience winner will be entitled to bring a guest for a five day/four night expense-paid trip to Doha, including round-trip airfare, luxury accommodation at the St. Regis Doha, tickets to two FIFA World Cup quarter-final matches, $500 (USD) spending money, a commemorative gift basket with FIFA and FIFA+ Collect memorabilia and more.

Entry is open to eligible fans around the world who purchase packs of digital collectibles showcasing highlights from FIFA’s 92-year-history. A winner will be selected at random each week. Each pack purchase automatically grants the purchaser one entry, with each additional purchase increasing the number of entries.

Packs of FIFA+ Digital Collectibles each include three random highlights from FIFA’s extensive archive of historic football footage. There are currently two collections available for purchase: the Genesis Collection, which is FIFA+ Collect's first drop, available for a limited time; and the newly released Archives collection.

Both collections are available for just $4.99 (USD) and include an array of incredible goals and jaw-dropping saves in four tiers: Common, Rare, Epic, and Iconic. Digital collectibles can be used on the platform to collect, trade, sell and play in reward-generating games and upcoming challenges.

About FIFA Collect

 Marketplace

• Environment
• Road to Net Zero
• Art & Design
• Film & TV
• Music & On-stage
• Pop Culture
• Fashion & Beauty
• Home & Garden
• Things to do
• Combat Sports
• Horse Racing
• Beyond the Headlines
• Trending Middle East
• Business Extra
• Culture Bites
• Year of Elections
• Pocketful of Dirhams
• Books of My Life
• Iraq: 20 Years On

Six ways to win tickets and trips to the Fifa World Cup Qatar 2022

Sport's biggest spectacle is around the corner. here's how to secure your spot in the stands.

Win your way to Qatar with free match tickets, flights and accommodation for the World Cup. Reuters

In a little over 10 weeks, Qatar will roll out the red carpet as it hosts the world’s biggest sporting event.

The Fifa World Cup Qatar 2022 kicks off on November 20 and several companies are offering football fans in the region a chance to win tickets, flights and all-expenses paid trips so you can join in the action.

Here are six ways to get yourself there.

1. Drink Coca-Cola to win an all-expenses paid trip

The soft drinks brand is running a promotion through special packs of Coca-Cola, Fanta and Sprite.

Fans who purchase the limited-edition drinks will receive a promotional code, which can be sent to a dedicated WhatsApp number to find out if it's one of the lucky numbers. The winner will head off on an all-expenses paid trip for two to Qatar, with flights, accommodation and tickets to a group stage match included.

The Coca-Cola Fifa World Cup 2022 promotion runs until October 15 in the UAE.

2. Get celebrating with adidas for World Cup tickets

Adidas is known for making official match balls for the tournament — including this year's called Al Rihla — as well as partnering perennial trophy favourites Germany. Now, the company is looking to fly fans to Qatar for the occasion.

To be in with a chance of winning, you'll have to show how you would celebrate winning tickets to the tournament — maybe busting a move, pulling a dab, embarking on a victory lap or busting into a celebratory song and dance.

Make sure someone is there to film it, then upload it and cross your fingers. A panel of adidas athletes will pick the winners, who will receive a pair of tickets to two matches at the tournament, plus three nights of hotel accommodation and return flights to Doha.

Make sure to upload your celebrations before the competition ends on September 30.

3. Find your way around a virtual cabin with Qatar Airways

Qatar Airways is pulling out all the stops as it prepares to welcome the world. As well as offering shuttle flights to and from Doha , as well as package holiday deals for the tournament, the airline is also planning on giving away a footballing experience for fans connecting via the virtual world.

Set to the sounds of We Will Rock You , Qatar Airways's virtual reality experience is set inside a QSuite, one of the airline's luxurious business class seats.

Details for the in-flight Delight Game, where users have to click on all of the seat's amenities before a final whistle blows, can be found on the in-flight entertainment screen. Winners will be awarded with a World Cup travel package, including return flights with Qatar Airways, match tickets and accommodation.

4. Get rewarded with a Qatar trip thanks to Tickit

Tickit, an instant rewards programme headquartered in Dubai, and Visa have partnered together to give four lucky winners an all-expenses-paid trip to the tournament.

If you want to be in with a chance of winning, you'll need to download the Tickit Rewards app and register using a UAE-issued Visa credit or debit card.

There's a minimum Dh100 purchase value to enter the contest, which can be spent at any of Tickit's in-store or online partners. The more you spend, the more entries you receive, with one entry for every Dh100 spent on the linked Visa card.

Running until September 25, winners will be selected via a random draw and will enjoy two tickets to two group stage matches, three nights full-board accommodation in a five-star hotel, return flights, airport transfers in Doha and Visa lounge access.

5. Commercial Bank of Dubai will fly customers to Qatar

Another Visa-linked promotion running ahead of the big tournament is in partnership with Commercial Bank of Dubai.

All CBD Visa Credit Card holders are automatically entered into a raffle draw when using their Visa cards — with only a few days of shopping left until the draw closes on Saturday.

For every spend of Dh1,000, cardholders will receive one entry into the draw, but note that this excludes ATM withdrawals. The lucky winners, who will be picked at random, will enjoy flights to Doha, accommodation and match tickets.

6. Buy groceries in Carrefour Qatar to win match day tickets

This one is aimed at those already in Qatar, or who will be in Doha before the end of the month. Supermarket chain Carrefour is giving away day packages and "business class" seats to select match days simply for buying groceries.

To win, you'll have to spend 350 Qatari riyals ($96) or more at any Carrefour Qatar store, either online or in-person. Top billing is one of 12 "business class" seat tickets, which give fans one of the best viewpoints to watch one of the matches, inclusive of a hospitality package with free-flowing food and drinks. There's also two individual day packages up for grabs, each including a pair of standard tickets.

And, if you miss out on the football tickets, there are consolation prizes including gift cards worth up to 15,000 Qatari riyals ($4,119) or a 55-inch Hisense TV to watch all the action from the comfort of your own home. This one ends on September 30.

Scroll through the gallery below to see David Beckham's 48 hours in Qatar

David Beckham explores Qatar in the country's new tourism campaign ahead of Fifa World Cup Qatar 2022. All photos: Qatar Tourism

FREE DELIVERY OVER 400 QAR

Check out our delivery Terms & Conditions ** for more details.

WELCOME OFFER 20% OFF

Join adiClub now and get 20% off your first purchase. 

FREE RETURNS

Return any item within 30 days after receiving your order. 

Find our more about our Return Policy  here . 

Join adiClub now

Unlock the best of adidas - the membership program that rewards you for doing what you love.

WANT TO STAND A CHANCE OF WINNING

a once-in-a-lifetime trip to the fifa world cup qatar 2022™, for you and a friend, spend to qualify, film your celebration moment.

For a chance to win the World Cup Experience, Spend 300 QR in store or online OR Film your Celebration Moment.

How would YOU celebrate winning tickets to the World Cup?

It could be a dance move, celebration or victory lap. Get creative! Then upload to enter.

PRIZE INCLUDES:

2 Tickets to 2 Group Matches or 2 Semi Finals.

Return flights to Doha & 3 nights accommodation.

Flights and accommodation only applicable for winners outside of Qatar.

Terms and conditions apply.

GET CREATIVE & ENTER NOW

Or shop to qualify.

SHOP WOMEN

Manage your data

We save and use your data to give the best experience.

Share your details to complete your request.

By clicking the REQUEST button below, I hereby certify under penalty of perjury I am the individual who is subject to this request (or that I have the authority to submit this request on behalf of such individual)

World Cup 2022: A Complete Guide to the FIFA World Cup in Qatar 

Whether you're tuning in from home or traveling to Qatar, we cover everything you need to know.

For months we have been counting down to the much-anticipated men's FIFA World Cup 2022, kicking off November 20, where qualifying teams from around the globe are gathering in Qatar to claim the coveted trophy. And Traveler is here to answer all of your World Cup 2022 questions. After all, whether you're a huge soccer fan or just enjoy the excitement the Cup brings out, the quadrennial event has an undeniable draw for travel-lovers. So, mark your calendars: The event will begin at 5 p.m. local time (9 a.m. EST) on Sunday, November 20, with matches leading up to the final showdown at 6 p.m. local time (10 a.m. EST) on Sunday, December 18.

While many have stake in their team winning, there's a lot of hype on Brazil and England this year. Or will France , who won the last men's FIFA World Cup hosted by Russia in 2018, make their country proud once again? No matter who wins, the global soccer competition is always a thrill to follow, even if you aren't making it to Qatar . Below, we answer every question you may have about the World Cup 2022, for both those planning a game-chasing trip to the event and those tuning in from elsewhere in the world. 

This article has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

  All listings featured in this story are independently selected by our editors. However, when you book something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

When is the World Cup 2022?

So, when exactly does the World Cup start? The 2022 World Cup will begin with an opening ceremony scheduled to begin at 5 p.m. local time, (9 a.m. EST) Sunday, November 20, followed by the starting match between host country Qatar and Ecuador kicking off at 7 p.m. local time (11 a.m. EST) on Sunday, November 20. There will be a total of 64 games played over five rounds: The group stage, a round of 16, quarter-finals, semi-finals, and the final. The group stage matches will play out until Friday, December 2, then the round of 16 games will run from December 3 to December 6. The quarter-finals will take place on December 9 and December 10, and the semi-finals will consist of two matches—one on December 13, and one on December 14. The final match and closing ceremony will both take place on Sunday, December 18, with the last game starting at 6 p.m. local time (10 a.m. EST).

Where is the World Cup 2022? 

The 2022 World Cup is hosted by Qatar. The matches are going to be held between eight venues in the capital city of Doha , and the surrounding cities of Lusail, Al Khor, Al Rayyan, and Al Wakrah. Each of the Qatar World Cup stadiums completed construction in the past two years explicitly for the games, with the exception of the Khalifa International Stadium in Doha, which was build in 1976.

The opening ceremony will take place at the 60,000-seat Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor, just outside of Doha, and the closing ceremony will be held at the 80,000-capacity Lusail stadium, also near Doha. 

Who is performing at the opening ceremony?

More than wanting to know when and where the opening ceremony will take place, the Internet is buzzing with an even bigger question: Who will perform at the World Cup opening ceremony? Ahead of official announcements from FIFA, K-Pop sensation BTS confirmed that Jung Kook, one of the band's seven members, will be performing at the ceremony. 

CBS Sports report that Lil Baby, who recorded a song titled “The World Is Yours to Take” for the 2022 World Cup soundtrack, will also be performing. The Telegraph has reported that Canadian actress Nora Fatehi is expected to sing the tournament's official song at the opening ceremony. Dua Lipa, The Cure, and Rod Stewart have all confirmed via their individual Twitter accounts that they are not performing. There's also online gossip of a Shakira performance—she recorded the World Cup 2010 theme song—though that has been chased by reports in Spanish media that she has since backed out. 

Other performances expected to take place during the Cup, according to the Telegraph, are concerts at the Doha Golf Club by British singer Robbie Williams (on December 8), the Black Eyed Peas performance (on November 20), and J Balvin  (on November 24). 

Who qualified for the World Cup?

There's always a lot of talk—and national pride—as we find out who qualified for the World Cup. There are 32 World Cup qualified teams representing every division: Africa (CAF), Asia (AFC), Europe (UEFA), North/Central America & Caribbean (CONCACAF), Oceania (OFC), and South America (CONMEBOL). FIFA has grouped the qualified teams into eight draws (for the sports laymen, that means the teams in each draw, or group, will face off against each other first):

Group A: Qatar, Ecuador, Senegal, Netherlands Group B: England, Iran, United States, Wales Group C: Argentina, Saudi Arabia, Mexico, Poland Group D: France, Australia, Denmark, Tunisia Group E: Spain, Costa Rica, Germany, Japan Group F: Belgium, Canada, Morocco, Croatia Group G: Brazil, Serbia, Switzerland, Cameroon Group H: Portugal, Ghana, Uruguay, South Korea

Who is the favorite to win the world cup 2022 in Qatar?

Brazil, who has won the most World Cups with five trophies, is the favorite to win the 2022 World Cup, according to the latest polls by Bet365 . They are followed by Argentina , France, England, and Spain.

What are the chances of the United States winning the World Cup 2022?

We are the underdog.

Odds are very low that the U.S. wins the 2022 World Cup, according to Draft Kings . While there is always hope, the teams that the United States Men's National Team (USMNT) is up against in group B are in much better standing. The USMNT is slightly favored to make it past the first group stage, though England is the rightful favorite to win the group. 

Where can I watch the World Cup?

The World Cup 2022 will be available live on FOX Sports and FS1 in the United States—available in English, as well as in Spanish on Telemundo. Both of these channels are available to stream on major platforms like Peacock TV , Hulu , YouTube TV , and Sling , among others.  

Where can I stream the World Cup 2022 for free?

The ad-supported streaming platform Tubi will broadcast all World Cup matches free of charge. There's a catch though, the matches will only be available as a replay, on-demand.  

(As you probably know, the streaming services above offer free trials—many of one month—which would make watching the 2022 World Cup free during the trial period.)

When is the next World Cup?

The FIFA Women's World Cup is taking place next year in Australia and New Zealand , from July 20, 2023 to August 20, 2023. There's still time to plan a memorable trip to watch the U.S. women's team compete—a team that is actually likely to take home the win, yet again. 

The next men's World Cup will be in 2026. For the first time ever, there will be three host countries: the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Host cities will be Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, San Francisco, Seattle, Guadalajara, Mexico City, Monterrey, Toronto and Vancouver. Tickets haven't gone on sale yet, but keep an eye on this page for details.

The Al Thumama Stadium in Doha, Qatar, will host a number of World Cup 2022 games.

Traveling to the World Cup 2022?

Flights to qatar.

Most Qatar flights are offered on Doha's own, Qatar Airways . The airline partners with Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, British Airways, JetBlue, and more. Of the four Qatar airports, only one is international: Doha's Hamad International Airport (DOH). Non-stop flights to Doha take 12 hours and 35 minutes from New York City , 15 hours and 40 minutes from Los Angeles , and 6 hours and 35 from London . 

What to do in Qatar

All international travelers heading into Qatar will need to fly via Doha, and that's a good thing—the city has rich offerings when it comes to fantastic hotels, world class restaurants, and cultural draws. There has been a ton of activity on the museum front, for starters: the Jean Nouvel-designed National Museum of Qatar opened in 2019, the very on-theme Olympic Museum opened this April ahead of the Cup, and the latest, the Museum of Islamic Art—credited with establishing Doha as a creative hub—reopened this October in a five-story limestone building designed by I.M. Pei. 

When you've finished working your way through the above, make a point to shop at Souq Waqif, a century-old shopping landmark, or earmark a day for a desert safari to get you out of the city. Read more about the best things to do in Doha in our just-updated guide, below. 

Qatar hotels

As with most major global sporting events, the host country prepares for years to show off the best of their nation. That usually means improving infrastructure, building top-of-the-line sports arenas, and, yes, investing in luxurious, world-class accommodations. Given that this is the biggest event ever hosted by Qatar, U.S. heavy-hitters and international brands went all in. 

While new properties like the Banyan Tree Doha and Zulal Wellness Resort are making big splashes, the grande dame in the city has long been the St. Regis Qatar . Known for housing some of the best restaurants in the urban center, like Chef Ho Yiek Chung's contemporary Chinese spot Hakkasan, the Marriott property is an ideal choice. If you want to stay closer to the Lusail Stadium, where the final—and biggest—matches will take place, the U-shaped architectural feat of the Katara Towers (one side is Raffles Doha , the other Fairmont Doha ) is opening right in time for the action. Or, check into the expansive Waldorf Astoria Lusail Doha set to open in October 2023. 

Get the full rundown on the best hotels in Doha through our new guide, where we cover wellness resorts, historic guesthouses, and much more. 

Qatar restaurants

If you were planning on just grabbing a quick bite at the hotel between matches, think again. The food scene in Doha has undergone somewhat of a renaissance as of late (not unrelated to that aforementioned investment poured into every corner of the hospitality sector ahead of the Cup). Expect to find local flavors like spiced karak tea and machboos (reminiscent of biryani) in the form of Qatari street food, and elevated dishes at restaurants like Jiwan by Alain Ducasse, which serves Qatari dishes with French flair (think desserts that combine strawberry and labneh, for example). There are of course more international flavors, such as Syrian food at Damasca One , and Sri Lankan at contemporary Nourlaya . And if it is great hotel dining you're after? Make a beeline for Jean-George Vongerichten’s South American Curiosa in the Four Seasons hotel on West Bay, or Gaston Acurio's ceviche haven La Mar at the InterContinental . 

Get more tips on the best restaurants in Doha, Qatar , through our complete dining guide. 

What are Qatar's travel requirements?

As for the standard Qatar travel requirements, your passport will need to be valid at least six months after your return date. Though Qatar usually requires a tourist visa upon entry (it costs roughly $27), only travelers with a ticket or approved by someone with a ticket can enter the country around the World Cup 2022, from November 1 to December 22. If you have a World Cup game ticket, or are traveling with a ticket holder, apply for your Hayya Card before traveling—this will function as your visa for entry to the country, and ticket into the World Cup stadiums. (It also grants fee metro and bus access in the country.) Travelers without a Hayya Card will not be permitted entry.

Additionally, COVID-19 travel restrictions for U.S. visitors to Qatar have been essentially eliminated—a vaccination certificate is no longer required to enter the country, nor are negative test results. Travelers no longer need to use the Ehteraz health certification app upon arrival, but are required to show it if/when entering public and private healthcare facilities. 

Keep tabs on the most up-to-date Qatar travel requirements and restrictions on the Qatar's website.

What is Qatar's weather like?

In November and December, temperatures are very pleasant at an average of 79 degrees Fahrenheit. While the country gets quite hot in the Summer months (think 106 degrees Fahrenheit), from November to March the weather is warm and perfect for travel.

What is the currency in Qatar?

The Qatari riyal is the official currency in the Middle Eastern country. At the time of publishing, the exchange rate is USD 1 = QAR 3.64. As is always the case when traveling abroad, try to bring at least $50 to $100 per person, per day—you never know when a restaurant isn't going to take your credit card or when an ATM might be hard to find. 

Can you drink in Qatar?

Yes, alcohol is available at licensed restaurants and bars for those over the age of 21. Each stadium will have areas where sports goers can grab a beer or Jack Daniels. Drinking is illegal outside of these licensed spaces (like, in your hotel room). 

Read more about Qatar

By Sarah Khan

By Ashlea Halpern

By Isabella Sullivan

By Jenna Scatena

Plus, where else to travel in the region

By Alice Holtham , Sarah Khan , and Isabella Sullivan

By Tharik Hussain

By Jessica Puckett

By Alice Holtham

By Alicia Erickson

Middle East GCC

• Iran English ایران فارسی
• Iraq English العراق العربيّة
• Jordan English الأردن العربيّة
• Kuwait English الكويت العربيّة
• Lebanon English لبنان العربيّة Liban Français
• Oman English عُمان العربيّة
• Qatar English قطر العربيّة
• Saudi Arabia English المملكة العربِيّة السعودية العربِيّة
• United Arab Emirates English الإمارات العربِيّة المتحدة العربِيّة
• Bahrain English البحرين العربية

Discover your next journey

• Before you fly
• At the airport
• Hamad International Airport
• Oryx Airport Hotel
• Qatar Duty Free
• Checking in

Meet & assist services

• Privilege Club
• Claim missing Avios
• Buy, gift & transfer
• Buy Qpoints
• My Calculator
• Cash + Avios
• Student Club
• Family Programme

Enjoy exclusive benefits

• Flight Status
• Search Search
• Popular searches

Choose your region

Get more on our app.

Make the most out of your trips!

Your upcoming trip

• Dashboard Edit profile Logout
• Earn Avios on every booking
• Enjoy award flights & upgrades
• Pay with Cash + Avios & save

Book your trip to experience the FIFA World Cup™

• Departure airport is missing
• Invalid departure airport
• Destination airport is missing
• Invalid destination airport
• Departure date is missing
• Return date is missing.
• Departure airport for flight 1 is missing
• Destination airport for flight 1 is missing
• Departure date for flight 1 is missing
• Departure airport for flight 2 is missing
• Destination airport for flight 2 is missing
• Departure date for flight 2 is missing
• Departure airport for flight 3 is missing
• Destination airport for flight 3 is missing
• Departure date for flight 3 is missing
• Departure airport for flight 4 is missing
• Destination airport for flight 4 is missing
• Departure date for flight 4 is missing
• Departure airport for flight 5 is missing
• Destination airport for flight 5 is missing
• Departure date for flight 5 is missing
• Departure airport for flight 6 is missing
• Destination airport for flight 6 is missing
• Departure date for flight 6 is missing
• Please select the number of passengers.
• Departure date should not be greater than the return date
• Invalid entry for departure airport field for Flight 1
• Invalid entry for destination airport field for flight 1
• Invalid entry for departure airport field for Flight 2
• Invalid entry for destination airport field for flight 2
• Invalid entry for departure airport field for Flight 3
• Invalid entry for destination airport field for flight 3
• Invalid entry for departure airport field for Flight 4
• Invalid entry for destination airport field for flight 4
• Invalid entry for departure airport field for Flight 5
• Invalid entry for destination airport field for flight 5
• multicity.field.depart.error6
• Invalid entry for destination airport field for flight 6
• Two of your consecutive flights are same. Please update your flight details.
• Minimum two segments needs to be selected for multi-city search
• Qatar Stopover packages are not available to book from 3 Oct – 8 Oct 2023 due to the F1® Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix

Experience Doha on stopover

Qatar stopover is not currently available for the below route. You can proceed with a regular search to book your flight

Children between 2-5 years should be accompanied by an adult over 16 years of age when travelling.

Each infant should be accompanied by one adult. When an infant fare is booked, the infant will be seated on the parent's lap.

• Premium (Business/First)

When would you like to add a stop in Doha during your journey?

How many days would you like to stay in Qatar?

• Use Avios to pay up to 50% and save
• Cash + Avios brings you double rewards

You have enough Avios to book an award flight.

still interested in travelling to {destination}?

There is a limited number of seats available. Complete your booking to secure yours.

The elation of watching your favourite team winning a game is a feeling unlike any other. Now that the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ is drawing nearer, you can secure your seat on your way to the globe's biggest football showcase.

Book your trip to enjoy our renowned hospitality and discover the ultimate sporting experience. 

More to help you plan the perfect trip

Book your FIFA World Cup™ travel package

Ensure that everything you need is covered when you book one of our all-inclusive travel packages., each consisting of flights, accommodation and match tickets.

Visa and travel eligibility

Nationals from many countries can take advantage of visa-free entry into the State of Qatar. Use the link below to understand your visa and travel eligibility.

Discover Qatar

Book your trip to Doha

Doha has risen out of the desert, fuelled by innovation and an energetic passion. The result is a city that has very quickly transformed to one of the most important and dynamic destinations in the Middle East.

A vibrant calendar of events

Make your stay in Qatar unforgettable with a vibant calendar of festivals and events. There's something for everyone.

Discover the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022TM stadiums

Matches will take place in eight state-of-the-art stadiums across Qatar.

Become a Privilege Club member

Join Privilege Club to unlock a world of exclusive rewards. Collect Avios with your family, enjoy one hour of complimentary Super Wi-Fi, save at Qatar Duty Free and much more.

One-time pin

Add an extra layer of security to your account with a one-time pin (OTP).

Secure your account with an OTP:

Receive your otp via:.

Enter a mobile number

login.otp.mobile.calling.code.emptyerrormessage

Please enter email address

Mobile number and email address should not be empty

Please enter valid email address

Placeholder for service error message

Your account is less secure without an OTP

Your OTP preferences have been updated.

A verification link will be sent to your newly amended email address. You will now logged out of your Privilege Club account. Do you wish to continue

Please enter the one-time pin (OTP) sent to your registered mobile number {0}.

A new OTP was sent successfully.

Please enter the one-time password received in your registered email, {0}.

one-time password has been re-sent. Please enter the one-time password received in your registered email, {0}.

Please enter the one-time pin (OTP) sent to your registered email address {1} and mobile number {0}.

A new OTP has been sent to your registered email address {1} and mobile number {0}. Please enter it below.

Please enter the valid one-time password

OTP should not be empty

Your account has been temporarily locked as the maximum number of daily attempts has been reached. Please try again by resetting your password after 24 hours.  Back

The OTP has been successfully verified.

Your contact details have been successfully changed..

• Subscription

Football fans, here’s how to win a fully paid trip to the FIFA World Cup™ courtesy of Visa

In this article

[This is a sponsored article with BigPay .]

The FIFA World Cup ™ that’s happening this November is arguably one of the largest sporting events that’s held once every four years.

For three years, national teams will compete to qualify for the tournament phase in the fourth year, during which 32 qualifying countries will compete for the title of champion and the FIFA World Cup™ Trophy.

It’s a show that many, if not all, football fans would not miss out on, with lots often looking forward to seeing the tournament in person. At 2018’s FIFA World Cup™, there were slightly over 3.03 million visitors from around the globe .

This year, BigPay wants to give a total of eight lucky winners the opportunity to win an all-expenses-paid hospitality package for two to see the FIFA World Cup™ live in Qatar in November 2022, courtesy of Visa.

What is included in the hospitality package?

There will be eight packages where winners can catch the opening matches , quarter-final matches , semi-final matches , and final matches of the FIFA World Cup 2022™ in Qatar .

Here are the benefits the hospitality package comes with:

Do note that the prizes do not include meals, events, as well as activities outside the programme itinerary.

In addition, the hospitality package does not cover hotel amenities, travel documents, taxes, travel insurance, and transportation to and from the airport in Malaysia.

How do I take part in this lucky draw?

For those interested in participating in this lucky draw, BigPay will award one raffle entry for every RM50 you spend with your BigPay Visa Card .

The announcements for the winners of the lucky draw are as follows:

• Opening matches winners will be announced on October 13 ;
• Quarter-finals matches winners will be announced on October 31 ;
• Semi-finals and finals matches winners will be announced on November 4 .

You’re not restricted to just one raffle entry though. If you spend a cumulative amount of RM1,000 before the next winner announcement, you will get a 2x multiplier which will be applied to your current number of raffle entries.

On the other hand, if you spend a total of RM3,000 before the next winner announcement, you will instead be given a 5x raffle entry multiplier, giving you a huge boost in your chances of winning the all-expenses-paid hospitality package.

Scenario 1: If you made a single RM50 transaction up until the time of the raffle draw, you will have a total of 1 raffle entry. Scenario 2: If you made a total of RM999 worth of transactions, you will be awarded a total of 19 entries. Scenario 3: If you made a total of RM1,009 worth of transactions, you will have a total of 40 total entries. (20 raffle entries x 2x multiplier = 40 raffle entries) Scenario 4: If you made a total of RM6,000 worth of transactions, you will be awarded a total of 600 entries. (120 raffle entries x 5x multiplier = 600 raffle entries)

But what if I don’t have a BigPay Visa Card?

The BigPay app has a feature where you can sign up for a BigPay Visa Virtual Card , which functions much like BigPay’s physical debit card.

To briefly explain how similar it is, the virtual card comes equipped with its very own 16-digit card number, an expiration date, and a CVC (Card Verification Code) number.

The virtual card creation is instant, which means you can use it to make purchases online immediately.

On top of that, it comes with additional features allowing it to be used for transactions at any participating merchants worldwide, and it follows real-time exchange rates when making purchases abroad, courtesy of Visa.

There are a few safety features available too, like the ability to freeze the card straight from the app to prevent further unwanted transactions should you misplace your card.

To commemorate the FIFA World Cup™, BigPay will be offering a limited edition Visa FIFA World Cup™ Themed Virtual BigPay Card, which will be available starting now until January 31, 2023 .

Those signing up for BigPay for the first time using the promo code “ PCWORLDCUP ” will be eligible for RM22 in cashback credits.

TL;DR – BigPay is giving eight lucky winners an all-expense-paid trip for 2 to watch the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ live. – Prizes include two FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™ Match tickets, a 5D4N stay at a 5-star hotel in Doha with daily breakfast, transportation to/from FIFA World Cup™ Matches, and more. – Participate by spending with your BigPay Visa Card (1 raffle for every RM50 spent). – Boost your lucky draw chances with 2x and 5x multipliers when you hit the minimum spending criteria. – Winners will be announced on October 13, October 31, and November 4, 2022. – Non-BigPay users who sign up using the promo code “ PCWORLDCUP ” will be eligible for RM22 in cashback credits. – There is a Limited Edition Visa FIFA World Cup™ Themed Virtual BigPay Card available until January 31, 2023.

• Find out more information about BigPay’s giveaway here .
• Find out more about BigPay here .

Featured Image Credit: Unsplash

Also Read 4 M’sian entrepreneurs share their worst business crisis, and how they triumphed through

Subscribe to our newsletter

Stay updated with Vulcan Post weekly curated news and updates.

MORE FROM VULCAN POST

Entrepreneur

Microsoft drops its biggest investment yet in M’sia with US$2.2B, here’s how it’ll be used

What makes a Malaysian startup worth investing in, according to these global VCs

This S’porean bandage brand won a govt tender to supply hospitals before it was market ready

• 30 Apr 2024

We give the KL20 Summit an A for effort, but here’s what we need to see the next time

Why this M’sian family has been preserving an 87 Y/O boutique hotel in Cameron Highlands

It started as a temporary project for disaster relief, now it’s a 9 Y/O M’sian social enterprise

You’ve seen head spas trending on TikTok, here are 7 places to try it out in Klang Valley

• 29 Apr 2024

As a Jujutsu Kaisen fan, I regret to bring you this review of its new themed café in KL

International

Vulcan Post aims to be the knowledge hub of Singapore and Malaysia.

© 2021 GRVTY Media Pte. Ltd. (UEN 201431998C.)

Enter our World Cup sweepstake for your chance to win a trip to Qatar

• Share on WhatsApp
• Share by email

With the men’s football World Cup set to kick off in November, Travel Weekly has teamed up with Qatar Tourism to run a tournament sweepstake – with a fantastic prize up for grabs.

Update :  Agents selected for Fifa World Cup Qatar 2022 Sweepstake

Qatar is getting ready to host the greatest show on Earth this winter, as the men’s football World Cup comes to the Middle East for the very first time.

And agents can get involved by taking part in an exciting sweepstake with the chance to win an exclusive holiday to Qatar including flights with Qatar Airways.

By completing Qatar-themed training modules, 32 lucky agents will each be assigned a team competing in the tournament.

With lots of social media events and special supporters’ goodie bags, they can cheer their adopted nation on throughout the competition until a champion is crowned, with the winning agent jetting off to Qatar to see all it has to offer.

The eyes of the world will be on the Gulf nation during November and December and, to prepare for this festival of football, it has built a series of new, architecturally stunning stadiums, with many situated close together so supporters can watch more than one match a day.

In addition, more than 100 new hotels have been built and the country has seen significant investment in its tourism sector and transport systems, including the Doha Metro.

Learn and win

This exciting competition, run in conjunction with Travel Weekly, is open to agents looking to sell Qatar as a destination.

To be entered into the sweepstake, agents must register and complete modules in the Qatar Specialist Programme.

For each module passed, agents will get one entry into the draw. On completion of the programme, an additional five entries will be awarded (maximum 15 entries per person).

Modules must be completed before November 3 to qualify. Thirty-two lucky agents will then be randomly selected to take part in the sweepstake.

Those who are not assigned a country in the sweepstake will still be eligible to win a place on a Qatar fam trip as part of a wildcard draw in each round of the World Cup.

For each of the five rounds, an agent in the draw will be selected at random to participate on a fam trip hosted by Qatar Tourism in 2023*.

The training programme covers 10 modules, designed to help agents sell more trips.

These include the key attractions in Doha, shopping, dining and entertainment, luxury breaks, and festivals and events.

There are also sections on ‘Qatar essentials’, tips for building itineraries, and lots of information on Qatar Airways and Hamad International Airport.

How to enter

Register, then complete modules on the Qatar Specialist training programme by November 3.

The more modules you complete, the more entries you get – 32 agents will then be randomly chosen to take part in the sweepstake.

Travel Weekly will assign each successful agent to a team playing in the World Cup through a draw on Facebook Live .

Follow your team through the tournament, whoever wins on December 18 will be treated to an exclusive holiday to Qatar including Qatar Airways flights.

Find out more here

TERMS & CONDITIONS 1. The grand prize is two economy seats to Doha with Qatar Airways and four nights’ accommodation, with transfers to and from Hamad International Airport. 2. The prize is subject to blackout dates to be determined by the airline on award of the prize. 3. The winner shall be responsible for their entry requirements: any and all tests needed for entry at the time of travel and to abide by the laws of Qatar when entering. 4. The winner should be working in the travel industry at the time of award. 5. The prize is non-transferable. 6. Every attempt will be made to contact the winner but if after 48 hours of award there is no response, another winner will be chosen and the prize forfeited. 7. Once booked and ticketed, the winner will be subject to the T&Cs of Qatar Airways and the chosen hotel, meaning amends may not be possible.

Travel Weekly terms and conditions

Share article

View comments, virgin atlantic is turning 40 and giving you a chance to win a seat on a very special trip. ready…set…vegas, unlock the caribbean spirit: win barbados rum with sungroup hotels, book with club med to earn vouchers and win fam places, win a pair of weekend tickets to the cambridge club festival with brand usa, jacobs media is honoured to be the recipient of the 2020 queen's award for enterprise..

The highest official awards for UK businesses since being established by royal warrant in 1965. Read more .

Michael W Travels…

Keeping you informed about most things travel, win a trip to the fifa world cup in qatar- 5 winners.

In the sweepstakes, five lucky winners will each win a trip to Qatar to attend two matches in the FIFA World Cup! The prize includes airfare, hotel stays and various activities in Dubai and Doha.

While I’m not a big fan of soccer I’d still love to win the prize. I love attending international sports matches and I’m sure it would be a lot of fun to attend the World Cup!

Let’s take a closer look at the sweepstakes.

The Prize : A trip for 2 to Doha, Qatar (departing on November 22, 2022 and returning on November 29, 2022

Prize includes : (from the T&Cs)

• One General Admission Club ticket to each of the following FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Matches: KOREA vs URUGUAY on November 24, 2022 at Education City Stadium in Al Rayyan, Qatar and KOREA vs GHANA on November 28, 2022 at Education City Stadium in Al Rayyan, Qatar
• Access to pre-match hospitality
• Round-trip economy class International air transportation to Dubai International Airport
• Transportation to/from Dubai International Airport
• Hotel in Dubai and scheduled activities
• Round-trip economy class air transportation between Dubai International Airport and Hamad International Airport in Doha, Qatar for both FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Matches
• Hotel accommodations including certain meals
• Sponsor-specified group tours in Doha City, Dubai and Abu Dhabi

The Rules :

• Open to legal residents of the 48 Contiguous United States and DC)
• Must be 21 years or age or older to enter
• Each winner must travel to Dubai, United Arab Emirates and Doha, Qatar on dates designated by Sponsor in November 2022 and at time of prize award

Sweepstakes ends at 11:59:59pm PT on September 18, 2022.

Find out more and enter for a chance to win the prize here .

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

• Book Travel
• Credit Cards

FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022: How to Plan Your Trip on Points

The FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 is taking place from November 21 to December 18, 2022.  

This year, instead of the summertime football fever that fans around the world are accustomed to every four years, we’ll be experiencing a winter World Cup for the first time.

Now’s a great time to start planning your trip if you’re interested in visiting Qatar to experience the World Cup in-person – especially with Team Canada looking quite likely to qualify for the first time since 1986 (fingers crossed).  

In this article, let’s go over some of the best strategies for travelling to Qatar for the FIFA World Cup, while using points to cover the major expenses and optimize your trip. We’ll update this article throughout 2022 as more information becomes available, too.

World Cup Match Tickets: Going On Sale Soon

Match tickets for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 have not yet gone on sale.

I’d expect the ticket application process to begin shortly, given that there are usually multiple rounds of ticket sales prior to the tournament, including both first-come first-serve and lottery-style processes.  

Keep an eye on this page on the FIFA website for upcoming news on ticket sales.  

Outside of individual match tickets, FIFA’s hospitality packages are already on sale. However, these packages start at US$950 per group match and are far more expensive than buying individual match tickets, so we won’t be focusing on them in this article.

As we await further developments on buying tickets, it’s worth noting that making travel plans around attending this year’s World Cup should prove much easier than past tournaments.

That’s because all the venues are easily accessible from Doha, the capital of Qatar. This is unlike past editions in Brazil and Russia, when travellers needed to plan out a series of domestic flights as well.

Booking Flights to Qatar

Most major airlines around the world open up their flight schedules about 11–12 months in advance of the travel date. Therefore, now’s a great time to start looking at booking flights to Qatar during the World Cup.

As you can imagine, round-trip airfare from North America to Doha during World Cup dates is currently fairly high. Multi-stop itineraries can be booked in the range of $1,500 (CAD), while more direct routings verge closer to $2,000+ (CAD).

However, if you’ve racked up some rewards points and are looking to make a memorable trip out of the World Cup, then your best bet is to book business class or First Class flights to travel to the tournament in style.

The nature of airline award availability during special tournaments is always a mysterious beast. If you see award space that you like, it’s best to lock in a booking before it goes away or gets booked up by someone else.

Let’s go over some of the best premium flight options to Doha and surrounding areas that currently have award space during the tournament dates.  

With Aeroplan points , you can take advantage of ample availability on Etihad Airways’s Toronto–Abu Dhabi route on the Etihad 787 Business Studio . Adding on a short-haul flight to Doha, the whole thing would cost you 85,000 Aeroplan points per direction.

You could even travel in Etihad Airways 787 First Class on the Washington–Abu Dhabi route for 120,000 Aeroplan points.

There’s also plenty of award space on EgyptAir via Cairo, although on a significantly less attractive business class product.

Air Canada does operate a direct Toronto–Doha flight, although business class pricing is dynamically high during the tournament dates, and eUpgrade space is also zeroed out for the time being (which is understandable, since Air Canada is presumably very confident of selling these seats for cash).

From any other Canadian origin city besides Toronto, you’ll most likely need to connect via Toronto or a US gateway city in order to book a partner flight to the Middle East at a reasonable points price.

There are a few options outside of Aeroplan points to consider, although they’re more limited. That’s because Qatar Airways, known for their Qsuites business class and a natural choice of airline en route to the World Cup, appears to have zeroed-out their long-haul business class award availability during the World Cup period (starting at about November 10–15).  

Qatar Airways may choose to release Qsuites awards in the future, but I wouldn’t count on it as a certainty. If you’d like to fly Qsuites en route to Doha for the World Cup, your best option is to book something else as a backup, and then change your plans to Qsuites if it becomes available.  

You might be able to find the occasional Royal Jordanian flight from North America to Amman, from which it’s only another 1.5-hour hop over to Doha. The flight from the East Coast to Amman would cost 92,750 Avios in business class.

From other US gateway cities, Seattle might be a good choice for West Coast residents looking to make the long trip over for 155,000 Emirates Skywards miles.  

There doesn’t appear to be much award space on the short-haul Dubai–Doha route, so you may need to make your way by car to Abu Dhabi and then fly over on Etihad (more on this below).  

Whether you’re looking to fly in economy, business, or First Class, there’s plenty of options at this early stage to book flights to Qatar at a good value during the World Cup.  

If you’re interested in attending, I’d recommend locking in a flight option that you’d be happy with well in advance, and then optimizing the journey in the months leading up to the tournament.  

Booking Accommodations in Qatar

While booking flights on points for the World Cup is looking very feasible, it’s a different story when it comes to hotels and places to stay.

Qatar has a fairly limited hotel capacity that will be stretched to its maximum to accommodate the millions of spectators from around the world during the winter of 2022.

To facilitate the hotel booking process, the Qatari government will be using a dedicated portal for visitors to book accommodations, which will include the usual hotels and apartments, plus dedicated “fan villages” and cruise ships docked in Doha’s waters for visitors to stay in.  

Hotels and guesthouses are not permitted to take bookings directly. There are a grand total of four properties charging exorbitant prices on Airbnb, which are presumably being listed in contravention of Qatar’s regulations.  

The state-run accommodations agency has not yet opened up, although visitors can register their interest on the FIFA website .  

You’ll have the option to indicate your preferred accommodation type, as well as your preferred star rating level between three and five stars. I’m very curious what the five-star fan villages are going to be like…

This unique system for managing Doha accommodations also means that it’s extremely unlikely that we’ll be able to use our hotel rewards points to book hotels in Doha during the World Cup.

(Indeed, some eagle-eyed Marriott Bonvoy members had been able to redeem points at the Four Points by Sheraton Doha when some award space was briefly available. However, the hotel has since reached out to inform guests that the reservation will not be honoured as per the State of Qatar’s local regulations.)

I’d expect that we’ll find out more details about booking accommodations through the state portal very shortly. In terms of pricing, the hotel stay add-ons to the FIFA hospitality packages give us some idea of what type of nightly rates to expect…

Given the limited supply and huge demand, I’d certainly expect the accommodations to make up most of the budget for World Cup attendees. Consider using fixed-value points like Scotia Scene+ points to cover some of these expenses.  

Alternatively, there’s one more possibility for enjoying a few weeks in the Middle East without paying Doha’s sky-high hotel rates…

Worth Considering: Base Yourself Elsewhere in the Middle East

Given the high costs of remaining in Qatar for a portion of the World Cup, let alone the entire tournament, it might be a good idea to plan a longer trip around the Gulf region and hop in and out of Qatar for only a few days to attend matches and/or soak in the atmosphere.  

Regional flights are understandably overpriced during the tournament dates, but that’s where the power of rewards points is clear to see.  

There’s plenty of award space on Etihad’s daily Abu Dhabi–Doha service for only 7,500 Aeroplan points in economy class…

…as well as Royal Jordanian’s Amman–Doha flight for 9,000 Avios in economy or 16,500 Avios in business class.

With Etihad’s schedule of six daily flights between the two cities, you could conceivably base yourself in Abu Dhabi (where plenty of hotels can be booked on points for a good value) for the duration of your World Cup trip and make short trips to Doha to attend matches or FIFA Fan Fests.

Or, perhaps you could plan a two- or three-night stay in Doha to stop by the World Cup as part of a larger Middle East trip to see more of the region’s highlights, like Amman , Petra , and Wadi Rum in Jordan, the decadence of Dubai , or the stunning landscapes of Oman or Saudi Arabia.  

Whether you’re an ardent football fan or someone who simply wants to experience the atmosphere of the world’s biggest sporting event as a bucket list item, now’s the time to start planning a trip to Qatar for the FIFA World Cup 2022 if you’re interested in attending.  

There are many ways to book a memorable flight in business class or First Class en route to the Middle East, whether you’re using Aeroplan points , British Airways Avios , or any other rewards currency.

Meanwhile, booking a place to stay in Qatar will be be a trickier proposition. All accommodations are to be booked through a dedicated state-run portal, which makes it all-but impossible to redeem points at a good value.  

Consider using fixed-value points to cover some of the accommodation costs, or base yourself elsewhere in the Middle East as a creative way to save money while seeing more of the region.  

It won’t be long until we find out more details about buying match tickets and booking accommodations for the World Cup, and we’ll be updating this guide throughout 2022 as we build up to the big event in Qatar.  

• Earn 80,000 MR points upon spending $15,000 in the first three months
• Plus, earn  40,000 MR points  upon making a purchase in months 14–17 as a cardholder
• And, earn 1.25x MR points on all purchases
• Also, receive a $200 annual travel credit
• Transfer MR points to Aeroplan and other frequent flyer programs for premium flights
• Unlimited airport lounge access for you and one guest at Priority Pass, Plaza Premium, Centurion, and other lounges
• Credits and rebates for business expenses throughout the year with Amex Offers
• Bonus MR points for referring family and friends
• Qualify for the card as a sole proprietor
• Annual fee: $799

Prices have only gotten more absurd! Direct flights from Toronto to Doha with Air Canada range around $3400+ (as of May 2022). And indirect flights with other airlines are not much better (averaging around $2500 CDN).

Looks like they’ve removed all of the Aeroplan reward flights from Abu Dhabi to Doha during the World Cup dates 🙁

Is the tickets sale over ? Are they going to sell more?

Anyone interested in buying Argentina vs Mexico tickets?

Yes, also have tix to trade

I’ve been saving Bonvoy points specifically for this. This is heartbreaking 💔

Step 1 – Hope that Qatar removes Canada from its red list of countries requiring hotel quarantine by then.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Prince of Travel is Canada’s leading resource for using frequent flyer miles, credit card points, and loyalty programs to travel the world at a fraction of the price.

Join our Sunday newsletter below to get weekly updates delivered straight to your inbox.

Have a question? Just ask.

Business Platinum Card from American Express

120,000 MR points

American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card

85,000 Aeroplan points

American Express Platinum Card

100,000 MR points

TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card

Up to 85,000 Aeroplan points†

Latest News

Air Canada Inaugurates Multimodal Partnership with The Landline Company

May 1, 2024

30% Transfer Bonus from Chase Ultimate Rewards to Virgin Atlantic Flying Club

Canada’s 33 Best Credit Card Offers for May 2024

Recent discussion, the beginner’s guide to td, air miles® expands earning at wholesale clubs and other retailers, the complete guide to british airways first class, rbc changes earning rates on the rbc® british airways visa infinite†, christopher, head-to-head: td aeroplan® visa infinite* card vs. westjet rbc® world elite mastercard, prince of travel elites.

Points Consulting

• Apply Products Online
• ANNOUNCEMENTS
• BOOK EZYQ APPOINTMENT
• TRADE ONLINE

Select Country

Catch the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 TM LIVE, courtesy of Visa #ForYou

Begin spending with your Maybank Visa Credit and Debit Cards to score the winning goal and win an unforgettable FIFA World Cup 2022 TM LIVE in Qatar experience for two, complete with:

• Round-trip flights
• Tickets to the final matches

That’s not all, stand a chance to also bring home the exclusive FIFA World Cup 2022 TM Memorabilia Box, packed with FIFA-themed merchandise.

Promotion Period: 20 May 2022 - 31 August 2022

Klik disini  untuk Bahasa Melayu

How To Participate

*Applicable to selected Sports Stores as per listed in clause 3.1.1 of the Maybank Visa FIFA World Cup 2022 TM Campaign Terms and Conditions.

**Not applicable for Maybank Islamic Credit Cardmembers

***Excludes monthly EzyPay transactions as per clause 3.1.5 of the Maybank Visa FIFA World Cup 2022 TM Campaign Terms and Conditions.

Maybank Visa Debit Card

Step 1: Register via SMS QATAR <space> Last 6-Digit NRIC or Passport Number to 66628.

Step 2: Spend and earn entries to win!

Qualifying Entries for Prizes:

Terms and Conditions

• This Campaign is open to all Maybank Visa Debit and Credit Cardmembers.
• Terms and Conditions  for Maybank Visa Credit Card.
• Terms and conditions  for Maybank Visa Debit Card.
• Repayment Assistance
• Operating Branches
• Open Account
• Maybank Cards
• Trade Online

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

Qatar Offered Fans Free World Cup Trips, but Only on Its Terms

Organizers are providing travel and tickets to fans of the participating teams, including dozens of Americans. But only if they promised not to criticize Qatar, and to report people who do.

By Tariq Panja

It is an offer good enough to make any soccer fan stop and listen. Free flights to the World Cup. Free tickets to matches. Free housing during the tournament and even a bit of spending money.

But the offer comes with a catch.

The handpicked fans who accept this trip of a lifetime — financed by Qatar, the host nation of this year’s World Cup — will be required to abide by contracts that will require them to sing what they’re told to sing, to watch what they say and, most controversially, to report social media posts made by other fans critical of Qatar.

Yet despite those rules, hundreds of supporters have signed up.

The invitations went out in late September, and targeted some of the most well-connected and well-known fan leaders backing the 32 teams headed to the World Cup. A Dutch fan told the broadcaster NOS that he had agreed to vet other supporters from the Netherlands. A board member from the American Outlaws, the biggest U.S. supporters group, agreed to take part, and then helped sign up fellow members and others.

On Thursday, the Outlaws’ member, who accepted an earlier trip to Qatar that was part of the program, said he had decided weeks ago not to accept free travel or housing from Qatar at the World Cup.

Fans from all of FIFA’s confederations, meanwhile, have accepted the offer; dozens have already traveled to Qatar at least once for luxurious pre-World Cup visits. Those, too, were paid for by tournament organizers.

Other fans, though, have declined. The conditions attached to the offer, one French fan told Le Parisien, felt like a step too far. “Despite the appetizing side of the dish, I preferred to stay true to my values,” said Joseph Delage, a member of a prominent French supporters group.

We are not asking you to [be] a mouthpiece for Qatar, but it would obviously not be appropriate for you to disparage Qatar the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (or other relevant entities related to the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022) or the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. We know you have your own opinions, and your own style, so based on the facts we present to you, share them in a manner that suits you.

An excerpt from the fan leaders’ code of conduct warns supporters not to disparage Qatar or the World Cup.

Qatar’s offer, which came out of a fan engagement program started in 2020, is the first time a host nation has paid for groups of fans from all the competing nations to attend the World Cup. But it is not the first time Qatar has worked to fill stadiums with friendly voices; in 2019, migrant workers and schoolchildren were enlisted to fill empty seats at the world track and field championships in Doha.

In exchange for their World Cup perks, this year’s fans — as many as 50 from each country — will be required to perform in a ceremony before Qatar opens the tournament against Ecuador on Nov. 20. Organizers have dedicated five minutes of that celebration to a fan-themed segment that will require the beneficiaries of Qatar’s generosity to perform a chant or song specific to their country, selected not by them but by tournament organizers.

Representatives of Qatar’s World Cup organizing committee, the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy, tried this week to play down the requirements explicit, and implicit, in the offer. “There is no obligation to promote or do anything,” Ahsan Mansoor, the fan engagement director for the 2022 World Cup, said in an interview.

But a closer look at the terms of the relationship revealed that chosen supporters are encouraged to do just that, and also to amplify messaging from the organizers to support the World Cup “by ‘liking’ and re-sharing third-party posts.” At the same time, according to documents and contracts reviewed by The New York Times and authenticated by multiple fans, participants are warned that although they are not being asked to be a “mouthpiece” for Qatar, “it would obviously not be appropriate for you to disparage” the country or the tournament.

The fan leaders have also signed up to be on the lookout for such negativity in comments on their posts; a clause in the code of conduct asks that they “report any offensive, degrading or abusive comments” to the organizers. Where possible, the code says, they should supply screenshots of any offending posts.

You agree to report any offensive, degrading or abusive comments to the SC and, if possible, to take a screenshot of those comments and then promptly delete them. All other comments whether challenging or celebratory about the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 may of course remain publicly visible at your discretion.

Another of the fan leaders’ listed “responsibilities” is to document and report the comments of others.

Those who breach regulations are warned that they could be dismissed from the program.

“At best they’re volunteers for the World Cup and at worst they’re a mouthpiece for the Supreme Committee,” said Ronan Evain, the executive director of Football Supporters Europe, an umbrella organization of fan groups that is recognized by European soccer’s governing body, UEFA. In the dozen years since Qatar was awarded the World Cup, the country has taken pains to shape and defend its national image amid corruption claims , environmental concerns and human rights issues .

The program to sign up fans as de facto ambassadors appears to have begun in 2020, when the Supreme Committee reached out to national federations around the world and asked to be put in contact with leading fan groups to better understand the needs of visitors. Qatar, which has almost no tradition of hosting major sporting events and little in the way of a domestic fan culture, was grappling with a complex task: how to create a tournament experience that would feel authentic to visiting supporters , but also one that fit within the cultural norms of Qatar, a conservative Muslim nation.

Most federations complied on that understanding. A U.S. Soccer spokesman said that it had received a request from World Cup officials looking to connect with fans, and had used it to open a dialogue with its own supporters groups, but that the federation had played no role in selecting individual fans for the World Cup trips. Other federations either supplied contacts to high-profile fan groups or, in the case of England, engaged by placing a sign-up form on behalf of Qatar’s World Cup committee on the website of its official fan club.

England’s federation said it found out about the program offering fans expenses-paid trips to the tournament from news media reports.

“We were told this was an opportunity to engage with fans from all competing nations to ensure that the voice of supporters was clearly heard in the planning for the World Cup, and that many international football associations were being approached,” England’s Football Association said in a statement. The F.A. said that since posting a link to connect fans with Qatari organizers, “we have had no more involvement with the scheme, and no sight of the ‘code of conduct’ or any of the terms and conditions of involvement.”

Over the past two years, though, the program quietly expanded. Fan leaders were flown to Qatar for meetings with World Cup organizers keen to hear what supporters in their nations expected from the tournament, and then sent home armed with information about what to expect in Qatar. They were treated to first-class hospitality, according to members who took part in the trips, and many posted social media content and posed for photos promoting the program.

The pre-World Cup trips, each about a week long, were centered on three key milestones: the Arab Cup, a type of test event for the World Cup; the tournament’s official draw in April; and most recently the opening of Lusail Stadium, the biggest in Qatar and the site of the World Cup final in December. During their visits, fan leaders were treated to experiences like kayaking in the warm waters of the Arabian Sea and dune bashing, a popular pastime in the Gulf in which sport utility vehicles power up and down sand dunes.

On one trip, the fan leaders were invited to the palatial home of a Qatari fan representative. Inside, they were given a tour of the Qatari’s impressive fleet of high-performance vehicles and his collection of signed jerseys, including those of Diego Maradona, Pelé and Lionel Messi.

Some fans even got to meet with David Beckham, one of the many pitchmen Qatar has signed to promote this year’s World Cup. (A public relations firm, Portland Communications, was initially involved in identifying and approaching fan groups in Europe.) Many fan leaders — and some journalists who have accepted similar trips — later gushed about their experiences in Qatar on social media .

“If you are an influencer receiving support or paid by brand you should have to disclose it,” said Evain, the European supporters group representative. “What we saw around the Arab Cup last year was European fan leaders who were not disclosing these ties with the Supreme Committee.”

World Cup organizers defended the offer to fans as nothing more than recognition for the time they have provided to help Qatar understand and prepare for a foreign influx unprecedented in its history.

“They don’t have any formal or contractual association with the World Cup, and they are not ambassadors for it,” said Mansoor, the head of the fan program. All they are required to do, he said, is take their place at the opening ceremony.

Tariq Panja covers some of the darker corners of the global sports industry. He is also a co-author of “Football’s Secret Trade,” an exposé on soccer’s multibillion-dollar player trading industry. More about Tariq Panja

Inside the World of Sports

Dive deeper into the people, issues and trends shaping professional, collegiate and amateur athletics..

Women’s Pro Hockey League: The fledgling league is booming — except in New York, where the team is in last place . But the players haven’t given up.

Aaron Rodgers’s Achilles’ Heel: The N.F.L. great was supposed to be the Jets’ savior. But since arriving in New York, he has spent more time voicing conspiracy theories  than playing quarterback.

A Key to Knicks’ Season: Jalen Brunson, Josh Hart and Donte DiVincenzo have been buddies since college , a situation that those who study the workplace say can foster success.

The Future of College Sports: A   National Labor Relations Board testimony, now in the hands of a judge, could have wide-ranging consequences  — positive and negative — for athletes and their institutions.

Voice of Problem Gambling: Craig Carton, the bombastic sports broadcaster, shows a different side on a weekly show  that focuses on the stories of gambling  addicts like himself.

American Pizazz Meets Sumo: At Madison Square Garden, New Yorkers got a rare look at an ancient Japanese sport , cheering and booing as though they were watching a Yankees game.

• Club noticeboard
• Coaching news
• Helping others
• Kiwis abroad
• Latest news
• Recognition
• Referee news
• A-League news (women)
• A-League news (men)
• National League news (women)
• National League news (men)
• Northern League news
• Central League news
• Southern League news
• Lotto NRFL news
• Chatham Cup news
• Kate Sheppard Cup news
• OFC Champions League news
• FIFA Club World Cup news
• All Whites news
• Football Ferns news
• Olympic Games news
• Email newsletter
• Online library
• Publications
• Streams and videos

Win a trip to the World Cup in Qatar — and help Friends of Football!

Fancy a trip for two to Doha for the biggest football event on the planet? You can be in the draw for return flights with 13 nights’ accommodation and match tickets to attend four pool games at this year’s World Cup.

Eight double packages are up for grabs with the chance to win the trip of a lifetime through the NZ Football Foundation’s national lottery.

Games you’ll see are:

• Germany v Japan
• Costa Rica v Germany
• Wales v Iran
• Spain v Germany

How it works

Tickets cost $20 and are purchased online from the foundation.

When you buy your ticket, you get the chance to nominate a participating club or school and they get $10 of the purchase price.

You can choose FRIENDS OF FOOTBALL if you wish to show your support for us, and to encourage what we do for the football community .

The funds raised will be put back into football through our Helping Hands Fund — click here for more details >>>>

Buy your tickets now

Click here to buy your tickets >>>>

How the lottery helps football

Clubs and schools are participating in the lottery which is the biggest national fundraiser ever by our sport.

The bold initiative is being promoted by the New Zealand Football Foundation in an effort to unite the football community, including about 400 clubs and schools, in a three-month effort to raise funds.

Participating clubs and schools have the potential to raise up to $900,000 between them.

The plan is to run a nationwide lottery with prizes comprising of double passes for the World Cup in Doha, Qatar, in November/December.

Clubs and schools can still join the project by emailing [email protected] .

Lottery opens July 15, 2022 .

Prize draw on October 1, 2022 .

How to support the plan

If your club or school wants to get involved, or learn more, click on the following information sheet:

About the New Zealand Football Foundation

More football stories

Recent Posts

New Zealand to face Indonesia or Guinea in opening game at Paris Olympics

New Zealand’s OlyWhites will face Indonesia or Guinea as their first opponents at the Paris...

Tickets go on sale for semi-final as Wellington Phoenix eye first ever title

Tickets are now on sale for the Wellington Phoenix’s biggest home game in club history....

PREVIEW: Even contests expected in Lotto NRFL Women’s Premiership round

By Joan Grey The chase for Lotto NRFL Women’s Premiership glory intensifies this weekend with...

Rebekah Stott and Macey Fraser picked in A-League Team of the Season

Football Ferns Rebekah Stott and Macey Fraser have been named in a 17-player Women’s A-League...

Major project launches to combat ACL injuries among women footballers

A three-year study to learn more about ACL injuries in women’s football has been launched...

Hosting bids reduced to two as decision nears on next FIFA Women’s World Cup

The United States and Mexico have withdrawn their joint bid to host the 2027 FIFA...

Otahuhu United step up plans to celebrate club’s 50th anniversary

Auckland club Ōtāhuhu United invite past and present members and supporters to their Seaside Park...

Giantkillers Oxford avoid big guns in quarter-final draw for English Cup

Canterbury cup giantkillers Oxford FC have been rewarded with a home quarter-final in the English...

Qatar is welcoming 102 countries visa-free, check your visa status here .

Visit Qatar App Explore things to do in Qatar!

Select your language

Get eVisa   info

Formula 1 Qatar Airways Qatar Grand Prix 2024

Watch as your favourite F1 stars compete for a podium finish at the spectacular Lusail International Circuit – taking place on the weekend of 29 November to 1 December 2024. See you there!

Race tickets

Nothing beats being trackside at the most famous motorsport event in the world. Book your place at the Lusail International Circuit for all the thrills and excitement from the world’s most elite drivers.

Ultimate F1 Fan Package

Create your dream package with Qatar Airways, complete with flights, accommodation and, of course, those all-importance race tickets.

Hospitality package

Choose your F1 experience, with guaranteed incredible racing views, access to exclusive trackside activities, entertainment and all-inclusive hospitality with gourmet dining.

Lusail International Circuit

Lusail International Circuit was completely revamped in 2023, and will welcome up to 40,000 F1 fans in the grandstands this year. Five-star VIP zones, extensive landscaping and 50 pit boxes have been introduced – making the circuit home to the largest number of pit boxes of all participating F1 circuits. This year, plenty of hair-raising action will play out during the 57 laps of the race, particularly on its dramatic main straight of 1.068 km. 

Passion for F1 in Qatar

Qatar has been a proud hub of Formula One action since first hosting the racing event in 2021, and then in 2023. This year will be the penultimate race in the series, before the final race takes place in Abu Dhabi. The country will once again show its passion for sport, with race fans joined by dignitaries, royalty and VIPs.

Schedule – what’s happening when

Plan your weekend around the adrenaline-filled racing on the track. After each session, Lusail and our nearby capital Doha offer plenty of incredible sights, flavours and events to enjoy.

Local time 16:30 - 17:30

Sprint Qualifying

Local time 20:30 - 21:14

Local time 16:00 - 17:00

Local time 20:00 - 21:00

Local time 20:00

Winners to watch out for in 2024 

Belgian-Dutch racing driver Vax Verstappen clinched victory for Red Bull Racing in 2023, securing a decisive win in the final round of the 2023 Formula 1 World Championship in Abu Dhabi. He also won the Qatar race on 08 October to the delight of roaring crowds, joined on the podium by Oscar Piastri and Lando Norris of McLaren Mercedes.

Hotels and city sights to experience during your stay in Qatar

Ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Qatar saw the launch of several luxurious 5-star hotels, positioned ideally among some of the country’s must-see attractions.

Cielo Lusail Hotel

Waldorf Astoria Lusail

Mondrian Doha

Lusail Winter Wonderland

Al Maha Island

Place Vendôme Mall

Find more ideas to add to your adventure.

10 things to do in Lusail

Qatar Moto GP

Sports in Qatar

Things to know before travelling.

Want to travel visa-free? Check if you qualify here.

Getting here

Planning your trip to Qatar? Check how to get here.

Travel tips

Make the most of your visit with our handy travel guide.

Getting around

From a dhow boat to our world-class metro, here’s how to easily explore Qatar.

• Latest edition

• Media Centre
• Terms & conditions
• Privacy notice
• Corporate website
• Amiri Diwan
• Cookie policy
• Qatar Tourism brand logos
• Subscribe to our newsletter
• Cookie settings

© 2024 Qatar Tourism | All rights reserved

France star suffers Euros injury agony after seeing Qatar World Cup ended after 13 minutes

Less than 18 months after suffering an ACL injury during the World Cup, Lucas Hernandez has suffered yet another devastating blow ahead of this summer's Euro 2024

• 19:43, 2 May 2024

France star Lucas Hernandez is set to miss Euro 2024 after rupturing his Anterior Cruciate Ligament during Paris Saint-Germain's 1-0 defeat at Borussia Dortmund.

The 28-year-old injured his left knee in the build up to Niclas Fullkrug scoring the only goal at the Signal Iduna Park on Wednesday. After being treated, Hernandez got up and played on but was forced to be taken off shortly after, with Lucas Beraldo coming on in his place.

Hernandez underwent a scan on Thursday which showed he had injured his ACL and will undergo surgery in the coming days, ending his hopes of featuring for France at the Euros. The former Bayern Munich defender is set to miss between six to seven months but could be in line to return before the end of the year.

"An MRI scan carried out today confirmed the diagnosis made by the club's doctors on Wednesday evening. The player will undergo surgery in the next few days. A further update will follow," PSG said.

This is the latest bitter blow for Hernandez, who is no stranger to serious injuries. In fact, at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar , he ruptured the cruciate ligament in his right knee just 13 minutes into France's opening group match against Australia . That ruled him out for the entire tournament and then the campaign.

Hernandez has been integral to the PSG squad this season as they push for the quadruple. He has made 41 appearances and has started in 10 of their 11 Champions League matches this term.

DON'T SCRAP REPLAYS! Join our petition to keep the magic of the FA Cup alive!

PSG were beaten 1-0 at Dortmund in the end and need to produce a comeback similar to their dramatic quarter-final win over Barcelona if they are to progress to the final. Speaking to Canal+ after the match, Enrique said: "That's football. Sometimes it’s wonderful, and then other times, that’s how it goes.

"We’ll have to analyse the chances created by both teams. It was a difficult game. Ousmane (Dembele), with his way of defending, we knew he could do a job on Emre Can. And the three attackers against the three defenders, with a pivot. We wanted to block the ball into Füllkrug.

"Everybody knew that this wasn’t going to be easy. This is the semi-final of the Champions League. The dressing room is a bit down, especially after hitting the post twice. But we had our supporters pushing us on throughout the match. We must recognise that this is an exceptional stadium, with fans who know how to support their team."

Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.

MORE ON France football team Borussia Dortmund Lucas Hernandez Paris Saint-Germain Euro 2024

Get the free mirror football newsletter with the day's key headlines and transfer news straight into your inbox.

• Latest News
• Emergencies
• Ask the Law
• GN Fun Drive
• Visa+Immigration
• Phone+Internet
• Reader Queries
• Safety+Security
• Banking & Insurance
• Dubai Airshow
• Corporate Tax
• Top Destinations
• Corporate News
• Electronics
• Home and Kitchen
• Consumables
• Saving and Investment
• Budget Living
• Expert Columns
• Community Tips
• Cryptocurrency
• Cooking and Cuisines
• Guide to Cooking
• Art & People
• Friday Partner
• Daily Crossword
• Word Search
• Philippines
• Australia-New Zealand
• Corrections
• From the Editors
• Special Reports
• Pregnancy & Baby
• Learning & Play
• Child Health
• For Mums & Dads
• UAE Success Stories
• Live the Luxury
• Culture and History
• Staying Connected
• Entertainment
• Live Scores
• Point Table
• Top Scorers
• Photos & Videos
• Course Reviews
• Learn to Play
• South Indian
• Arab Celebs
• Health+Fitness
• Gitex Global 2023
• Best Of Bollywood
• Special Features
• Investing in the Future
• Know Plan Go
• Gratuity Calculator
• Notifications
• Prayer Times

India have the team to win the T20 World Cup 2024, UAE cricket coach Lalchand Rajput says

The batting is solid and there's variety in the bowling, former Indian batsman says

Lalchand Rajput knows a thing or two about winning. The former Indian opening batsman coached India to their only T20 World Cup triumph, which was in 2007, the inaugural tournament in South Africa. Now serving as the UAE national coach, Rajput confidently asserts that India possesses the potential to secure their second World Cup title in the upcoming tournament, commencing on July 1 in the United States and the West Indies.

“I think they’ve got the best players. I’m really happy that Sanju Samson is there because he is a match winner. Overall, if you look at it, I feel that is the best 15 India could pick,” Rajput said in the Gulf News video chat Straight Bat. “They’ve got good allrounders, good strikers up front, good finishers and two wicketkeepers who can win you games on their own,” he added.

The former Indian coach quickly dismissed the talk that the Indian pace attack lacks firepower. “[Jasprit] Bumrah is a matchwinner, and then you got a lefthander [Arshdeep Singh], who is a good addition because of the angles, balls going away, and coming in. Most batsmen are not comfortable against lefthand bowlers. [Mohammad] Siraj is one of the best bowlers we have. Hardik Pandya will bowl a couple of overs as well,” he said.

Analysing the match strategies, Rajput said the pitches in the West Indies and the US are on the slower side, which means teams will not be fielding four fast bowlers unless they are playing in Barbados. “That’s why they [India] have picked more spinners and only three fast bowlers. Hardik Pandya is the fourth fast bowler — a batting allrounder,” he added.

Batsmen win you games, I feel the bowlers win the championship. So you have to have the right mix of bowlers. - Lalchand Rajput, UAE cricket coach

Regarding Samson’s prospects, Rajput agreed the Rajasthan Royals captain’s chances of playing are slim. “The first choice wicketkeeper will definitely be Rishabh Pant. So if Sanju [Samson] has to play, it should be as a batsman, and he’s been striking ball very well this season. The only spot I can see [for him] is No. 5. There’s tough competition, and it all depends on the practice matches. If he [Samson] does well in the practice matches, he will be pushing for a place in the playing eleven,” he said.

What does it take to win the World Cup? Mental strength is crucial since World Cup games are really tough, Rajput said, adding that you must know how to win a championship. “Batsmen win you games, I feel the bowlers win the championship. So you have to have the right mix of bowlers,” he said.

More From IPL

Hyderabad steal one-run win as Rajasthan falter in IPL

‘Dangerous’ Punjab beat Chennai in own den

Pant’s return to Team India shows his perseverance

All-round Stoinis helps Lucknow beat Mumbai in IPL

Spanish football great David Villa seeks new challenges

World Cup: Sanju Samson's post in Malayalam goes viral

Chelsea working to understand injury woes: Pochettino

Video: India can win the T20 World Cup, Rajput says

Team Australia unveil jerseys ahead of T20 World Cup

Qatar central bank issues treasury bills, islamic sukuk, uae president receives condolences from egypt, jordan, tiger accepts special exemption into us open, president receives condolences from sharjah, uaq rulers.

Get Breaking News Alerts From Gulf News

We’ll send you latest news updates through the day. You can manage them any time by clicking on the notification icon.

• Skip to Navigation
• Skip to Main Content
• Skip to Related Content
• Today's news
• Reviews and deals
• Climate change
• 2024 election
• Fall allergies
• Health news
• Mental health
• Sexual health
• Family health
• So mini ways
• Unapologetically
• Buying guides

Entertainment

• How to Watch
• My watchlist
• Stock market
• Biden economy
• Personal finance
• Stocks: most active
• Stocks: gainers
• Stocks: losers
• Trending tickers
• World indices
• US Treasury bonds
• Top mutual funds
• Highest open interest
• Highest implied volatility
• Currency converter
• Basic materials
• Communication services
• Consumer cyclical
• Consumer defensive
• Financial services
• Industrials
• Real estate
• Mutual funds
• Credit cards
• Credit card rates
• Balance transfer credit cards
• Business credit cards
• Cash back credit cards
• Rewards credit cards
• Travel credit cards
• Checking accounts
• Online checking accounts
• High-yield savings accounts
• Money market accounts
• Personal loans
• Student loans
• Car insurance
• Home buying
• Options pit
• Investment ideas
• Research reports
• Fantasy football
• Pro Pick 'Em
• College Pick 'Em
• Fantasy baseball
• Fantasy hockey
• Fantasy basketball
• Download the app
• Daily fantasy
• Scores and schedules
• GameChannel
• World Baseball Classic
• Premier League
• CONCACAF League
• Champions League
• Motorsports
• Horse racing
• Newsletters

New on Yahoo

• Privacy Dashboard

• Yahoo Sports AM
• College Sports
• Fantasy Sports
• Horse Racing
• Scores/Schedule
• Giannis, Dame uncertain for Game 6
• Justin Fields might return kicks for Steelers
• Griner considered suicide in Russia
• Dodgers' Buehler set for return to mound
• 2K less Game 6 tickets for Knicks fans

Iraq qualifies for Paris Olympics men’s soccer tournament with win over Indonesia at U23 Asian Cup

DOHA, Qatar (AP) — Iraq qualified for the men’s soccer tournament at the Paris Olympics with a 2-1 win over Indonesia in the third-place playoff at the Under-23 Asian Cup on Thursday.

Ali Jasim's extra-time winner means Iraq takes Asia’s third automatic place at the Olympics. Japan and Uzbekistan, who meet in Friday’s cup final, have both already qualified for the Paris Games.

Indonesia took the lead after 19 minutes at Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium in the meeting of the two defeated semifinalists when Ivar Jenner scored from outside the area.

Eight minutes later, Zaid Tahseen headed home at the near post to make it 1-1.

The game went to extra time and Iraq took the lead in the 96th. The Indonesian defense misjudged the bounce of a long pass allowing Jasim to run free into the right side of the area. He sent a powerful shot across the diving goalkeeper to put Iraq on the brink of its sixth Olympic appearance.

Indonesia, still searching for a first Olympic appearance since 1956, almost took the game to a penalty shootout in the final action but Justin Hubner’s header was cleared off the line.

There is still one more opportunity for Indonesia. It will face Guinea in a May 9 playoff for a place in Paris.

AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccer

Recommended Stories

Kelley o'hara, 2-time world cup champion and olympic gold medalist, to retire after 2024 nwsl season.

O'Hara was part of a golden era for USWNT.

NASCAR: Erik Jones set to return to Cup Series at Darlington

Jones suffered a spinal fracture in a crash at Talladega.

Steelers surprisingly decline fifth-year option on RB Najee Harris

The Pittsburgh Steelers are declining the fifth-year option for running back Najee Harris, making him a free agent after the 2024 season.

Georgia gives Kirby Smart a raise to make him the highest-paid coach in college football

Smart is set to make $13 million in 2024 and his contract now goes through 2033.

Tiger Woods reveals a more human side as U.S. Open offers exemption

For a decade, Tiger Woods owned the golf world. Now, he's taking on a new challenge and showing a different side of himself in the process.

Rookie WR expectations post-NFL Draft: Just how good will Marvin Harrison Jr. be?

Fantasy football analyst Matt Harmon lays out Year 1 expectations for the talented class of rookie wide receivers entering the 2024 season.

F1 Miami Grand Prix 2024: Schedule, TV channels, weather, top drivers and more

Formula 1 makes its first of three visits to the United States this weekend as it takes over the Hard Rock Stadium complex for the third-ever Miami Grand Prix.

Through 6 starts, new Cubs ace Shota Imanaga has been the best pitcher in MLB

Despite his unimposing presence on the mound, Imanaga's fastball and splitter have completely stymied MLB hitters.

The Fantasy Baseball Numbers Do Lie: One of 2024's true breakouts is hiding in Chicago

Fantasy baseball analyst Dalton Del Don exposes some fraudulent statistics as we near the close of Week 4.

Checking in on the AL Central: Twins taking their turn as the hottest team in one of MLB's most competitive divisions

After a month of play, four AL Central teams are above .500, a distinction no other division in baseball can claim.

Diana Taurasi’s trash-talking, in-your-face ways may be a bit of a shock to new WNBA fans

Caitlin Clark fans beware: You never know what the 20-year veteran might say … or do.

Former Dodgers P Julio Urías placed on probation, ordered to counseling after pleading no contest to domestic battery charge

Urías has been on administrative leave from MLB since his September arrest.

UFC 301 primer: The return of a legend, and more Brazilian favorites pack main card in Rio

Here’s a closer look at what to expect from the pay-per-view portion of UFC 301.

Miami Heat 2024 NBA offseason preview: Don't expect major changes

Heat Culture may mean a more cautious approach to retool around Jimmy Butler and Bam Adebayo.

NBA playoffs: Celtics cruise to blowout win over Heat in Game 5 to reach Eastern Conference semifinals

The Celtics had no issue closing out their opening-round playoff series with the Heat on Wednesday night.

Celtics finish off Heat without Kristaps Porziņģis as Boston's 'sixth starter' answers the call

Al Horford stepped up for Boston in Game 5, and now the real test begins for the Celtics, who will likely be without their starting center for the conference semifinals.

Brittney Griner says she considered suicide during her first weeks in Russian prison

The Phoenix Mercury star spared little detail recounting the horrors of Russian prison.

Timberwolves head coach Chris Finch plans to travel with team to Denver for Game 1 after knee surgery

Chris Finch underwent surgery to repair a ruptured patellar tendon in his right knee on Wednesday.

Canelo Álvarez and Oscar De La Hoya erupt in heated exchange ahead of title bout with Jaime Munguía

Canelo Álvarez is set to defend his title against undefeated Jaime Munguía on Saturday in Las Vegas.

House v. NCAA settlement heats up, more drama at Colorado and the worst Kentucky Derby names

Dan Wetzel, Ross Dellenger, and SI's Pat Forde unpack the latest update on the House v. NCAA case, react to Twitter beef happening at Colorado, and the worst Kentucky Derby names ever.

TheJakartaPost

Please Update your browser

Your browser is out of date, and may not be compatible with our website. A list of the most popular web browsers can be found below. Just click on the icons to get to the download page.

• Destinations
• Jakpost Guide to
• Newsletter New
• Mobile Apps
• Tenggara Strategics
• B/NDL Studios

• Archipelago
• Election 2024
• Regulations
• Asia & Pacific
• Middle East & Africa
• Entertainment
• Arts & Culture
• Environment
• Work it Right
• Quick Dispatch
• Longform Biz

Golden generation

The team and the country will need Shin’s touch more than ever after the Asian Cup, whether or not the squad wins the coveted trip to the Paris Olympics.

Share This Article

Change size.

ndonesia’s faith in national soccer team head coach Shin Tae-yong has paid dividends, with the South Korean guiding Young Garuda to the semifinals of the U-23 Asian Cup, bringing the squad one step closer to a historic appearance at the Olympic Games.

Shin was the toast of the town after his lads, in an ironic twist, ended his own national team’s dreams of making it to this summer’s Olympics in Paris. The match, which was held at Doha’s Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium on Thursday evening, was decided in a dramatic penalty shootout after a pulsating 120 minutes of play resulted in a 2-2 draw.

Indonesian goalkeeper Ernando Ari Sutaryadi saved two penalty kicks and made one of his own to contribute to a 11-10 win against pre-tournament favorite South Korea. He was also responsible for a brilliant tip that denied Australia a point in Indonesia’s 1-0 upset win in their group match on April 18.

Shin’s contract as the national team’s head coach had been extended until 2027 even before the quarterfinal victory against South Korea. It was the right decision at the right time, considering the squad’s convincing performance during his tenure.

The team and the country will need Shin’s touch more than ever after the Asian Cup, whether or not the squad wins the coveted trip to the Paris Olympics. Blessed with a big pool of talent, Indonesia has been longing for a ticket to the World Cup, and with Shin at the helm, the dream may just come true in 2026.

Fans have dubbed the current national team the “golden generation” of Indonesian soccer, especially after they won the country’s first Southeast Asian Games gold medal in the sport for more than three decades. The squad lost to Qatar in the opening match of this year’s Asian Cup but fought back, earning two consecutive wins to qualify for the quarterfinals for the first time as the group runner-up to the host.

Every Thursday

Whether you're looking to broaden your horizons or stay informed on the latest developments, "Viewpoint" is the perfect source for anyone seeking to engage with the issues that matter most.

By registering, you agree with The Jakarta Post 's Privacy Policy

for signing up our newsletter!

Please check your email for your newsletter subscription.

Few would have thought Indonesia capable of defeating South Korea, which had won all three prior group matches. Indonesia has lost seven times to the South Koreans in U-23 encounters, including a 7-0 drubbing in a 2000 Olympics qualifying match. 

The upset win against Australia was the turning point for Indonesia. The national team’s confidence grew further with another shocking victory, 4-1 over feisty Jordan.

And having reached the semifinals, the squad may have what it takes to go all the way.

They will take on either Uzbekistan or defending champion Saudi Arabia in their semifinal match on Monday, where one ticket to the Paris Olympics is up for grabs.

If Indonesia loses, it can still qualify for the world’s biggest sporting event if it can beat the other losing semifinalist in the playoff for third place. But not even a defeat in that match will dash Indonesia’s hopes entirely, provided that it can overcome Guinea in an Asian-African playoff later in May.

The last time an Indonesian soccer team competed in an Olympics was in 1956 in Melbourne. After being automatically advanced through the first round, Indonesia lost to the Soviet Union in the quarterfinals.

After a long dormancy, Indonesia has slowly but surely regained its reputation as a regional soccer power to reckon with after its strong showing in Qatar over the past two weeks.

Coach Shin’s contribution has been extraordinary in building a strong team physically and mentally. Some players have drawn attention to their coach’s discipline – the key, perhaps, to the team’s winning run in Qatar. He does not hesitate to criticize his players in public for their lack of discipline, such as turning up late for a training session.

The team faces still greater challenges in its quest for soccer glory. It is our responsibility to help our golden soccer generation grow as strong as it can be.

Indonesia may offer dual citizenship to attract overseas workers, minister says

Ministry unveils new funding initiative for climate-resilient health system

Sri Mulyani vows to improve customs services

Related articles, ri, singapore move forward with solar power export plan, indonesia’s foreign policy in ‘the multiverse of madness‘, how us allies are preparing for a possible second trump term, australia brush indonesia aside 4-0 to reach asian cup quarters, rocky road awaits as indonesia makes history in asian cup, related article, more in opinion.

Empowering change: Teachers and Prabowo’ nutritional reforms

Prabowo's head start diplomacy

Analysis: Jokowi lures Apple CEO to build first manufacturing facility, invest in IKN

Mass fish die-off in Vietnam as heatwave roasts Southeast Asia

Foreign firms call for better intellectual property protection

Thousands more evacuated after second ruang eruption, passengers want better service amid plan to increase commuter line fares, potential inclusion of pks in prabowo’s ruling coalition prompts disagreement, indonesia reaffirms commitment to active role in world order with oecd accession road map, inflation eases but rate cut deemed unlikely for now, idx composite falls 1.61% as fed delays interest rate decision, webb telescope takes stunning images of horsehead nebula's 'mane', indonesia not affected by southeast asia-wide heat wave: bmkg.

• Jakpost Guide To
• Art & Culture
• Today's Paper
• Southeast Asia
• Cyber Media Guidelines
• Paper Subscription
• Privacy Policy
• Discussion Guideline
• Term of Use

© 2016 - 2024 PT. Bina Media Tenggara

Your Opinion Matters

Share your experiences, suggestions, and any issues you've encountered on The Jakarta Post. We're here to listen.

Thank you for sharing your thoughts. We appreciate your feedback.

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Jose Mourinho picks his three favourite teams to win Euro 2024

Share this with

Jose Mourinho has picked England , Portugal and France as his three favourites to win Euro 2024 .

After losing to Italy in the final of Euro 2020, England are looking to go one step further by winning their first ever European Championship this summer.

Gareth Southgate’s side have been drawn in Group C alongside Slovenia, Denmark and Serbia and their tournament begins on June 16.

France, meanwhile, will be aiming for another strong tournament having lost to Argentina in the World Cup final in Qatar in December 2022 . Didier Deschamps’ side are in Group D with Poland, Netherlands and Austria.

Portugal look set to impress at Euro 2024 this summer after a strong qualifying campaign saw them win all 10 of their matches. Roberto Matinez’s side have been drawn in Group F alongside Turkey, Georgia and the Czech Republic .

When asked for his prediction for Euro 2024, Mourinho said at a tribute event for his father in Vila do Conde on Wednesday: ‘For me, it’s one of the three strongest teams – Portugal, France and England.

‘Surprises can happen, yes. But looking at the quality and quantity of players, I think Portugal has to go there to win.’

Mourinho also revealed that he was close to becoming head coach of Portugal’s national side and has credited the team’s progress under Roberto Martinez.

‘I had the possibility of taking over the national team, a very real possibility,’ Mourinho said.

‘Now we are at the Euros, with a coach who has done a great job and a great generation of players. I want it to go well, which is to win.

Winning , will continue and go to the World Cup. If it has to happen one day, it will happen.’ I didn’t have any invitation from any Portuguese club.’

Speaking on his own future, Mourinho reiterated his desire to return to management this summer after he was sacked by Roma in January .

‘Whatever happens, will happen. I know that the weight of my history is heavy,’ Mourinho said.

‘I know that even when I coach teams that are not cut out to win, people always expect me to win. In the last two years I played in two European finals. I want to play more.’

For more stories like this,  check our sport page .

Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on Facebook ,  Twitter  and  Instagram .

MORE : Mauricio Pochettino open to joining ‘great’ Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou in Sweden

MORE : Chelsea can boost their bid for European football by scuppering Tottenham’s fading Champions League chances

MORE : Mauricio Pochettino rules two more Chelsea players out of Tottenham clash as injury crisis grows

Chelsea news, exclusives and analysis

Get us in your feed