5 talking points for Arab nations from World Cup draw

RIYADH: The 2022 World Cup suddenly feels a lot closer after the draw on Friday in Doha. Here are 5 things that Arab nations possibly learned from the big event.

1. A chance for Qatar to progress

No World Cup host wants to exit at the first round — just ask South Africa — but Qatar will be satisfied with their chances in Group A in terms of opposition and schedule. The opening game against Ecuador is going to be huge and the South Americans may just be the perfect opposition and ideal opportunity to start with three points. The biggest issue the hosts may have is one of pressure: This is their first-ever World Cup game, they are playing at home, and they have to win to progress.

Then there is a meeting with Senegal as the Asian champions take on their African counterparts in what is sure to be a tricky tie. This is what World Cups are made of, however, and it will go some way to showing what Qatar are made of. Whatever happens, the Maroons need points on the board before ending with the glamour game against the Netherlands.

Coach Felix Sanchez will be hoping that the Dutch are already through by this stage and resting players but whatever the situation, this is a chance for Qatar to play one of the world’s biggest and most famous national teams in a competitive tournament on home soil.

2. Morocco better placed than last time

In 2018, the North Africans had to deal with Spain, Portugal and Iran. This Group F looks a little easier. An opener against Croatia will be fascinating especially as the 2018 finalists are not at the same level these days. Morocco will fancy their chances of getting off to a decent start especially if they can field all of their European stars such as Hakim Ziyech and Noussair Mazraoui.

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