This is the first winter World Cup in the tournament’s 92-year history.
WHO will win the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar?
That’s the question on everyone’s lips as the global showcase got underway last week as Ecuador beat Qatar.
The competition kicked off last Sunday with a visually stunning opening ceremony at Al-Bayt Stadium.
Karthy Dludla, Sharks and Springbok rugby player: “For me, it is between Argentina and Belgium. Both these teams have top-ranked players, and Romelu Lukaku is my favourite player. Belgium may seem to want it too badly, so I think Argentina will take this one. Argentina went 36 games unbeaten since 2018 which is why I think they most likely will win the World Cup. So if I had to choose an out-and-out winner, it would be Argentina.”
Henri Schoeman, Olympic medalist and SA triathlete: “For me, it has to be Spain. I’ve always supported them, and they played exceptional football in the lead-up to the tournament. They also have a special place in my heart from watching them play in Durban, and they won the 2010 World Cup hosted in South Africa. They are strong contenders for the trophy.”
George Maluleka, uMhlanga resident and Amazulu FC midfielder: “My overall prediction is Belgium will do really well, but I’m backing Senegal to bring it home. My prediction is the final will be between Senegal and Brazil. I think the African teams stand a good chance of doing well and progressing to the latter rounds of the tournament. One thing is for sure – it’s going to be a very interesting and competitive World Cup.”
George Koumantarakis, Durban North resident and former Bafana Bafana striker: “Portugal. They have a well-balanced team with a player that is hungry to be known as the world’s best. I think Cristiano Ronaldo will lead them to a World Cup title, which is the only thing missing from his résumé to be known as the world’s greatest football player.”
Paul Viljoen, local resident and principal of Northwood School: “Brazil. They have an excellent record at the World Cups and a generation of really talented players. They also play their best at big occasions, and I think Qatar 2022 will be their year.”
Incredibly, since 2002, the World Cup has been won by European teams with the trophies shared among Italy, Spain, Germany and France. This year could see other touted teams lift the cup with expectations building around Lionel Messi’s Argentina and Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal.
However, one cannot count out Germany or Brazil.
The Seleção have won the most World Cups with five titles while Germany are close behind with four titles.
We spoke to residents and sports stars who gave their input on who they feel will lift the coveted trophy.
Shiraz has been a community journalist for the last 12 years and has a specific interest in everything sports. He holds a Bachelor of Arts undergrad degree and honours degree from the University of KwaZulu-Natal where he majored in Communications, Anthropology and English.
