The 2022 Qatar World Cup - A-Z

A is for Argentina

For a nation of their profile, Argentina's recent World Cup record has been surprisingly poor. They may be two-time winners but since their last triumph in 1986 they’ve only made it past the quarter-finals stages twice.

Still, it wouldn’t be a World Cup without Argentina and they’ve been ever-presents since 1974, even if they often underperform given the players at their disposal.

Getting the most out of Lionel Messi has proved to be difficult for a succession of managers, but as the PSG man gets on in years that seems to be less of a problem, with players deferring to him less and expectations lifting slightly.

Messi claims that this is his final World Cup and given Argentina’s form coming into the competition – they’re unbeaten in 35 games, this may be the perfect way for him to bow out.

B is for Brazil

The other great South American power, Brazil head to Qatar as the favourites to lift the World Cup.

On paper, the Selecao have perhaps the strongest squad in the tournament with genuine quality all over the pitch. Alisson and Ederson are battling it out for the goalkeeper’s jersey, Marquinhos and Eder Militao anchor their defence, while there’s a host of talent in midfield.

However, it's up front where Brazil’s embarrassment of riches is the most obvious, so much so that they can afford to leave the likes of Roberto Firmino at home. Neymar remains the star of the show but with supporting acts like Raphinha, Gabriel Jesus and Richarlison, they’re going to be a lot of fun to watch.

C is for Cost

Holding a World Cup in a desert country that’s one sixth the size of Ireland is bound to cost a pretty penny, but how much exactly?

Hassan Al Thawadi, head of the Qatari body tasked with organising the tournament, says