Qatar officials have apologised after a broadcast journalist's live TV report was interrupted amid threats to break his camera.
Danish journalist Rasmus Tantholdt was delivering a live report for broadcaster TV2 with his camera crew next to a Doha roundabout when footage shows Qatari officials driving a golf buggy approach. One of them tried to grab the camera, putting his hand over the lens, while two other people also exited the buggy.
Danish station TV2 said on its website: “The team was bluntly told that if they didn’t stop filming, their cameras would be destroyed.
My friend (also an American ex-pat who's stateside form the UAE) shared this with me a couple of days ago in a WhatsApp Group. Completely ridiculous when you get down to it. Give it a watch please everyone, especially for the guy driving the golf cart, lol!
Paranoia is a constant there in Gulf countries, DESPITE this being an opportunity for this World Cup tourney to be free advertising for them, they STILL managed to screw up something extremely basic.
Welcome to the UAE and Qatar. I despised my time in that part of the world. Most the Expats I met over a few holidays there felt the same….not that I felt bad for them. Most were there for the money.
What's an Expat?
RE: RE: RE: RE: Qatar knew full well what the expectations
Welcome to the UAE and Qatar. I despised my time in that part of the world. Most the Expats I met over a few holidays there felt the same….not that I felt bad for them. Most were there for the money.
What's an Expat?
Someone who lives in a country that's not his/her own for an indefinite period of time, often without becoming a citizen there. Lots of people are digital nomads and/or academics who do that. I made friends with a poster on BBI who's also an expat (no names).
Qatar officials have apologised after a broadcast journalist's live TV report was interrupted amid threats to break his camera.
Danish journalist Rasmus Tantholdt was delivering a live report for broadcaster TV2 with his camera crew next to a Doha roundabout when footage shows Qatari officials driving a golf buggy approach. One of them tried to grab the camera, putting his hand over the lens, while two other people also exited the buggy.
Danish station TV2 said on its website: “The team was bluntly told that if they didn’t stop filming, their cameras would be destroyed.
My friend (also an American ex-pat who's stateside form the UAE) shared this with me a couple of days ago in a WhatsApp Group. Completely ridiculous when you get down to it. Give it a watch please everyone, especially for the guy driving the golf cart, lol!
Paranoia is a constant there in Gulf countries, DESPITE this being an opportunity for this World Cup tourney to be free advertising for them, they STILL managed to screw up something extremely basic.
TV reporter accosted by Qatar officials during live interview amid threats to break camera just days before World Cup - ( New Window )
With banning beer sales in the stands but wish they had done it earlier. I have been to several games with drunken Brits and it is absolutely unlike anything i have ever seen in other sports— unruly loud and at times violent. I understand that German and French fans can be as bad. Without some loud mouthed drunks this will be a better experience for other fans. Again no excuse for waiting though and all these restrictions are exactly what FIFA deserves for the corrupt process that was followed.
It might have something to do with InBev, the parent company of Budweiser being Belgian owned, and the Belgians being on the forefront of the woke movement against the Qatar World Cup, in regards to worker cruelty corruption, gay rights, etc.
Is it now "woke" to against worker cruelty, corruption, and gay rights?
Fuck me
I know. This usage of the term "woke" is about the dumbest phenomena around right now.
With banning beer sales in the stands but wish they had done it earlier. I have been to several games with drunken Brits and it is absolutely unlike anything i have ever seen in other sports— unruly loud and at times violent. I understand that German and French fans can be as bad. Without some loud mouthed drunks this will be a better experience for other fans. Again no excuse for waiting though and all these restrictions are exactly what FIFA deserves for the corrupt process that was followed.
+1 Precisely. Well said sir. A British lady friend of mine was saying something along those lines in a WhatsApp Group I'm in today.
It was widely reported before the World Cup that media would only be allowed to film in authorized zones.
Arab Gulf countries are ill equipped logistically to deal with this. He had his permit and they receive an apology later. I saw a tweet in Arabic that when translated indicated that a designated official from the Qatari media office should have accompanied them, but didn't. The while thing was ridiculous. Free pub for your country, or neutral pub, and they managed to turn it into something negative. Just REALLY dumb stuff that could have been avoided. Guy who speaks broken English too dealing with the media over something totally innocent.
Did foreign reporters have free reign to film anywhere they wanted to ? I thought the whole concept of having a world class sporting event in Qatar was a terrible idea, but a reporter getting detained for being somewhere he wasn't supposed to seems like a red herring.
2 hours. Do you mean to tell me that people can't go 2 hours without a beer? JFC.
They all can. But when you move mountains to get to and attend the event, it certainly sucks to have a basic accommodation (one that was previously approved) unavailable.
Agreed. And I find it funny when people project their own beliefs and habits on the the rest of society and if they don’t align they get insulted. People just traveled literally across the globe to watch their favorite teams play, and in many cases wanted to do so with a cold brew in their hand as they did so. It’s not that hard to understand.
2 hours. Do you mean to tell me that people can't go 2 hours without a beer? JFC.
They all can. But when you move mountains to get to and attend the event, it certainly sucks to have a basic accommodation (one that was previously approved) unavailable.
Agreed. And I find it funny when people project their own beliefs and habits on the the rest of society and if they don’t align they get insulted. People just traveled literally across the globe to watch their favorite teams play, and in many cases wanted to do so with a cold brew in their hand as they did so. It’s not that hard to understand.
It's also not so hard to understand that they don't allow alcoholic consumption in public in their stadiums or in a public space. Period. End of story. Not up for negotiation or discussion of any kind. This all should have just been pointed out earlier.
This has been a cluster and all these FIFA guys took the bribes and Qatar is basically got them over a barrel.
Changing the beers sales 2 days before and basically killing your biggest sponsor.
No reason it should be in Qatar.
RE: RE: RE: RE: A soccer game is played in less than
2 hours. Do you mean to tell me that people can't go 2 hours without a beer? JFC.
They all can. But when you move mountains to get to and attend the event, it certainly sucks to have a basic accommodation (one that was previously approved) unavailable.
Agreed. And I find it funny when people project their own beliefs and habits on the the rest of society and if they don’t align they get insulted. People just traveled literally across the globe to watch their favorite teams play, and in many cases wanted to do so with a cold brew in their hand as they did so. It’s not that hard to understand.
It's also not so hard to understand that they don't allow alcoholic consumption in public in their stadiums or in a public space. Period. End of story. Not up for negotiation or discussion of any kind. This all should have just been pointed out earlier.
Its easy to understand its also not hard to understand that they said it would be allowed. They knew they would never get the world cup in Qatar if they said they wouldnt allow it. So they said they would, then two days before said "nah we dont allow it". Thats the BS of this whole thing. If they said all along it would not be allowed then this would be perfectly fine. And its not even about it being beer, what if they said all the woman who attend have to wear hijab's, or you can only wear Qatar team colors to all matches, etc... Its 2 days before, u said it would be allowed so it should be allowed. If I was FIFA id pull the Semi finals and finals and move them somewhere else. I know the logistics of that would be impossible, but screw Qatar. Of course screw FIFA to, ha.
2 hours. Do you mean to tell me that people can't go 2 hours without a beer? JFC.
They all can. But when you move mountains to get to and attend the event, it certainly sucks to have a basic accommodation (one that was previously approved) unavailable.
Agreed. And I find it funny when people project their own beliefs and habits on the the rest of society and if they don’t align they get insulted. People just traveled literally across the globe to watch their favorite teams play, and in many cases wanted to do so with a cold brew in their hand as they did so. It’s not that hard to understand.
It's also not so hard to understand that they don't allow alcoholic consumption in public in their stadiums or in a public space. Period. End of story. Not up for negotiation or discussion of any kind. This all should have just been pointed out earlier.
Its easy to understand its also not hard to understand that they said it would be allowed. They knew they would never get the world cup in Qatar if they said they wouldnt allow it. So they said they would, then two days before said "nah we dont allow it". Thats the BS of this whole thing. If they said all along it would not be allowed then this would be perfectly fine. And its not even about it being beer, what if they said all the woman who attend have to wear hijab's, or you can only wear Qatar team colors to all matches, etc... Its 2 days before, u said it would be allowed so it should be allowed. If I was FIFA id pull the Semi finals and finals and move them somewhere else. I know the logistics of that would be impossible, but screw Qatar. Of course screw FIFA to, ha.
How it was handled was the problem, not the policy itself. The policy of no alcohol in the stadium is a wholeheartedly safe one. Plenty of fans go to games already and don't indulge. Hooliganism is a HUGE problem in large swathes of the footballing world and it needs to go the way of the dodo. The hijab comparison you made is not a good one by the way. That's not an issue in the GCC (Gulf Cooperating Countries) for non-Muslims or even Muslims. This isn't about religion. It's about corruption and going back and forth. The Shame of it is that it could have been handled in a much better way. But what do you expect when you're dealing with FIFA? Transparence? Haha!
If you've ever been to a football match (I don't say soccer because it's awkward to do so for most people in the world), you'd see how out of hand it can get when fans from Europe go kray-kray (not saying all of them are bad, but many are unfortunately). It's despicable and has no place in any society. My friend from England texted me this morning as we were discussing the issue over WhatsApp in a group with friends and former colleagues that she got held up by hooligans fighting with the police after a match as she was driving through the city she was working in after administering IELTS exams! Ridiculous stuff man. She saw cops getting tossed around too by these cretins. There should be a zero tolerance policy for that type of thing everywhere. It's not the why, but the how at the end of the day.
I got exposed to the shit at 13 back during the 1990 World Cup in The Sporting Club in Manhattan when I saw England play Egypt. I couldn't believe all the nutty stuff I saw (kinda liked it though since I was a young degenerate, lol!). Then I saw other crap as I got older. It's no joke. This is the right move, but done in a shady way. No question about that. I've dealt with it in the Gulf too when they would delay announcing official holidays until the day before, even though we know it was coming. They have to be in control at all times even when it's something which is fait accompli. I remember one time people's holidays were ruined over New Year's because of this, but that's another story, lol.
None of this surprises me one iota btw. It's a real shame because the weather there is beautiful now and people can have a good time in Dubai before hopping a charter flight and heading to Doha for the matches. One of my friends and former teammates (Colombian) wanted me to go because I speak Arabic. I told him you won't need me. This tournament would have been much better off being in a country like Morocco where they know how to deal with people and have logistical capabilities. The only problem thee is that they'll hustle your socks (and pants too) off! Let's see what happens. Go Team USA btw!
It won't. It's the biggest sporting spectacle in the world and only grows more massive every 4 years. Fifa is basically printing money. Global soccer is the biggest sport in the world with enormous untapped profit potential. And one day, when the US is a true threat to win the WC, maybe 20 or 40 years from now, it will rival the NFL in this country.
We can't even consistently make the cup. Last time we lost to Trinadad and fucking Tabago which eliminated us from even competing. I'm not even certain this team can make it out of group like we did in 2014 when things were looking up for US Soccer.
RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: A soccer game is played in less than
2 hours. Do you mean to tell me that people can't go 2 hours without a beer? JFC.
They all can. But when you move mountains to get to and attend the event, it certainly sucks to have a basic accommodation (one that was previously approved) unavailable.
Agreed. And I find it funny when people project their own beliefs and habits on the the rest of society and if they don’t align they get insulted. People just traveled literally across the globe to watch their favorite teams play, and in many cases wanted to do so with a cold brew in their hand as they did so. It’s not that hard to understand.
It's also not so hard to understand that they don't allow alcoholic consumption in public in their stadiums or in a public space. Period. End of story. Not up for negotiation or discussion of any kind. This all should have just been pointed out earlier.
Its easy to understand its also not hard to understand that they said it would be allowed. They knew they would never get the world cup in Qatar if they said they wouldnt allow it. So they said they would, then two days before said "nah we dont allow it". Thats the BS of this whole thing. If they said all along it would not be allowed then this would be perfectly fine. And its not even about it being beer, what if they said all the woman who attend have to wear hijab's, or you can only wear Qatar team colors to all matches, etc... Its 2 days before, u said it would be allowed so it should be allowed. If I was FIFA id pull the Semi finals and finals and move them somewhere else. I know the logistics of that would be impossible, but screw Qatar. Of course screw FIFA to, ha.
How it was handled was the problem, not the policy itself. The policy of no alcohol in the stadium is a wholeheartedly safe one. Plenty of fans go to games already and don't indulge. Hooliganism is a HUGE problem in large swathes of the footballing world and it needs to go the way of the dodo. The hijab comparison you made is not a good one by the way. That's not an issue in the GCC (Gulf Cooperating Countries) for non-Muslims or even Muslims. This isn't about religion. It's about corruption and going back and forth. The Shame of it is that it could have been handled in a much better way. But what do you expect when you're dealing with FIFA? Transparence? Haha!
If you've ever been to a football match (I don't say soccer because it's awkward to do so for most people in the world), you'd see how out of hand it can get when fans from Europe go kray-kray (not saying all of them are bad, but many are unfortunately). It's despicable and has no place in any society. My friend from England texted me this morning as we were discussing the issue over WhatsApp in a group with friends and former colleagues that she got held up by hooligans fighting with the police after a match as she was driving through the city she was working in after administering IELTS exams! Ridiculous stuff man. She saw cops getting tossed around too by these cretins. There should be a zero tolerance policy for that type of thing everywhere. It's not the why, but the how at the end of the day.
I got exposed to the shit at 13 back during the 1990 World Cup in The Sporting Club in Manhattan when I saw England play Egypt. I couldn't believe all the nutty stuff I saw (kinda liked it though since I was a young degenerate, lol!). Then I saw other crap as I got older. It's no joke. This is the right move, but done in a shady way. No question about that. I've dealt with it in the Gulf too when they would delay announcing official holidays until the day before, even though we know it was coming. They have to be in control at all times even when it's something which is fait accompli. I remember one time people's holidays were ruined over New Year's because of this, but that's another story, lol.
None of this surprises me one iota btw. It's a real shame because the weather there is beautiful now and people can have a good time in Dubai before hopping a charter flight and heading to Doha for the matches. One of my friends and former teammates (Colombian) wanted me to go because I speak Arabic. I told him you won't need me. This tournament would have been much better off being in a country like Morocco where they know how to deal with people and have logistical capabilities. The only problem thee is that they'll hustle your socks (and pants too) off! Let's see what happens. Go Team USA btw!
Completely agree with this take. Three times in the past decade I have attended a match in England, a civilized Western country, with my family only to have to leave early because of violence in the stands near us as drunken idiots started fighting. None of these involved opposing teams' fans fighting but just a bunch of crazies who came to drink and be obnoxious rather than enjoy the match. Should have taken this action months ago.
As for the bashing of Qatar, what a joke. Bash FIFA for picking Qatar. The country did not just become a monarchy with strict Islamic laws and a reliance upon slave labor. It is what it is and that should have been a consideration up front. Maybe FIFA should have returned to a more civilized nation, like Russia! Guess they did not pay the same level of bribes.
RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: A soccer game is played in less than
Completely agree with this take. Three times in the past decade I have attended a match in England, a civilized Western country, with my family only to have to leave early because of violence in the stands near us as drunken idiots started fighting. None of these involved opposing teams' fans fighting but just a bunch of crazies who came to drink and be obnoxious rather than enjoy the match. Should have taken this action months ago.
As for the bashing of Qatar, what a joke. Bash FIFA for picking Qatar. The country did not just become a monarchy with strict Islamic laws and a reliance upon slave labor. It is what it is and that should have been a consideration up front. Maybe FIFA should have returned to a more civilized nation, like Russia! Guess they did not pay the same level of bribes.
+1 - So sorry you went through that Jeffrey.
Hooliganism is disgusting and SEVERE judicial penalties and fines against those caught participating should be enforced to deter their deleterious behavior. It seems some fans on this thread ar either unaware or choosing to ignore how difficult these people are to handle. The banning of alcohol at games is good.
As far as FIFA is concerned, they are the ones who are to be blamed for all this. Slave labor issues and total lack of media savvy aside, Qatar is a safe place to visit and take in games at state-of-the-art stadiums, but they are logistically incapable of handling the massive amounts of people (and be extension media) who attend the World Cup. I saw a video of a guy from Spain who planned in walking to Qatar from Madrid back in January! No joke! Click HERE to see the short video.
Their unsophisticated---or dare I say common sense-less approach to media relations is another huge issue. Paranoia is ingrained in them, and they've already gotten embarrassed because of it. t could have been so much nicer since the weather there now is beautiful. They've hosted tournaments before (The Arab Cup last year around this time when I was in the UAE) successfully, but this is an ENIRELY different kettle of fish. What do yo expect when you put these two together (FIFA and the host nation)? Anywho, it is what it is. Go team USA! The first game will be starting in a few minutes between the hosts and Ecuador (see link below to the Opening Ceremony).
Nice counter they had before that penalty. Ecuador is outclassing Qatar. They really don't belong in this tourney, but it is what it is. My dad (my former coach) was like, "Qatar will show what they can or can't do early on." So far, they can't do much, lol.
Is a hell of a way to start a statement praising a country for how safe it is.
For Westerners it is totally fine. You're privileged there as a Westerner in the GCC.
Well if that’s the case then slave labor is a-ok huh.
Who said that? lol. What's wrong with you man?
Slave labor isn’t something you just brush aside because they are nice to westerners.
Of course it's wrong. I was talking about safety. Separate things. In GCC countries you have no worries about being assaulted and if you lose your wallet or your phone in public you're almost guaranteed to get them back. I've worked and lived in the GCC a long time so don't lecture me about what I've seen. Of course it's despicable. You can't exactly go disputing it when you're there, otherwise you're deported. I don't appreciate the assertion you think I'm ok with it either.
It’s not about the policy, it’s about how they handled it. The Lucy with the football move is what the problem is. I don’t care about the other part of the discussion. It’s complete BS what they did. Believe it or not, some people wouldn’t have gone if they knew this would be applied. And their travel plans all together were definitely in the thousands of dollars, not hundreds. Not too mention sitting in a metal tube with hundreds of people for upwards of 24 hours l, just to get there, depending where you came from. That’s the point of the fan anger. Not that they can’t sit through a game without booze.
It’s not about the policy, it’s about how they handled it. The Lucy with the football move is what the problem is. I don’t care about the other part of the discussion. It’s complete BS what they did. Believe it or not, some people wouldn’t have gone if they knew this would be applied. And their travel plans all together were definitely in the thousands of dollars, not hundreds. Not too mention sitting in a metal tube with hundreds of people for upwards of 24 hours l, just to get there, depending where you came from. That’s the point of the fan anger. Not that they can’t sit through a game without booze.
This is true.
RE: RE: RE: Why don’t you guys start a slave labor thread
Senegal and Holland are the other two teams in this Group (Group A). Mane ain't playing for Senegal, so expect Holland and Ecuador to come out of this group.
USA and Wales tomorrow at 2 pm ET. Looking forward to that. Someone will start a thread for it tomorrow I'm sure and we can comment on it there.
Senegal and Holland are the other two teams in this Group (Group A). Mane ain't playing for Senegal, so expect Holland and Ecuador to come out of this group.
USA and Wales tomorrow at 2 pm ET. Looking forward to that. Someone will start a thread for it tomorrow I'm sure and we can comment on it there.
The winner of USA Wales will be the winner of the cup.
Senegal and Holland are the other two teams in this Group (Group A). Mane ain't playing for Senegal, so expect Holland and Ecuador to come out of this group.
USA and Wales tomorrow at 2 pm ET. Looking forward to that. Someone will start a thread for it tomorrow I'm sure and we can comment on it there.
The winner of USA Wales will be the winner of the cup.
England, Iran, USA and Wales in Group B. Gonna be competitive. you think we're getting past England? I hope of course.
Senegal and Holland are the other two teams in this Group (Group A). Mane ain't playing for Senegal, so expect Holland and Ecuador to come out of this group.
USA and Wales tomorrow at 2 pm ET. Looking forward to that. Someone will start a thread for it tomorrow I'm sure and we can comment on it there.
The winner of USA Wales will be the winner of the cup.
England, Iran, USA and Wales in Group B. Gonna be competitive. you think we're getting past England? I hope of course.
Hahah no just my allegiances go USA, Wales. I assume Slovakia isn’t in it lol.
RE: RE: RE: RE: Ecuador was convincing in their win.
Senegal and Holland are the other two teams in this Group (Group A). Mane ain't playing for Senegal, so expect Holland and Ecuador to come out of this group.
USA and Wales tomorrow at 2 pm ET. Looking forward to that. Someone will start a thread for it tomorrow I'm sure and we can comment on it there.
The winner of USA Wales will be the winner of the cup.
England, Iran, USA and Wales in Group B. Gonna be competitive. you think we're getting past England? I hope of course.
Hahah no just my allegiances go USA, Wales. I assume Slovakia isn’t in it lol.
Oh definitely Go USA! I root for Egypt too, but they got screwed in the African Nations Qualifiers. The two best teams on the continent wound up playing one another for one spot, them and Senegal. Go figure. Egypt lost on penalties. Mane is out so there's that. Senegal won't be doing squat this tourney. The best Arab nations aren't even in this tourney in Egypt and Algeria. Egypt played and beat mighty Belgium in a friendly match two days ago 2-1 in Kuwait. They could have done something in this tournament. Slovakia ain't in it this time. They were strong in 2010 though when they made the Round of 16. Any favorites for this tournament? My dad picked Brazil to win it.
RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: Ecuador was convincing in their win.
Senegal and Holland are the other two teams in this Group (Group A). Mane ain't playing for Senegal, so expect Holland and Ecuador to come out of this group.
USA and Wales tomorrow at 2 pm ET. Looking forward to that. Someone will start a thread for it tomorrow I'm sure and we can comment on it there.
The winner of USA Wales will be the winner of the cup.
England, Iran, USA and Wales in Group B. Gonna be competitive. you think we're getting past England? I hope of course.
Hahah no just my allegiances go USA, Wales. I assume Slovakia isn’t in it lol.
Oh definitely Go USA! I root for Egypt too, but they got screwed in the African Nations Qualifiers. The two best teams on the continent wound up playing one another for one spot, them and Senegal. Go figure. Egypt lost on penalties. Mane is out so there's that. Senegal won't be doing squat this tourney. The best Arab nations aren't even in this tourney in Egypt and Algeria. Egypt played and beat mighty Belgium in a friendly match two days ago 2-1 in Kuwait. They could have done something in this tournament. Slovakia ain't in it this time. They were strong in 2010 though when they made the Round of 16. Any favorites for this tournament? My dad picked Brazil to win it.
Not from me. I’m one of those guys who only watches soccer when it’s the World Cup.
Or the olympics. It’s a patriotism thing for me haha.
RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: RE: Ecuador was convincing in their win.
Senegal and Holland are the other two teams in this Group (Group A). Mane ain't playing for Senegal, so expect Holland and Ecuador to come out of this group.
USA and Wales tomorrow at 2 pm ET. Looking forward to that. Someone will start a thread for it tomorrow I'm sure and we can comment on it there.
The winner of USA Wales will be the winner of the cup.
England, Iran, USA and Wales in Group B. Gonna be competitive. you think we're getting past England? I hope of course.
Hahah no just my allegiances go USA, Wales. I assume Slovakia isn’t in it lol.
Oh definitely Go USA! I root for Egypt too, but they got screwed in the African Nations Qualifiers. The two best teams on the continent wound up playing one another for one spot, them and Senegal. Go figure. Egypt lost on penalties. Mane is out so there's that. Senegal won't be doing squat this tourney. The best Arab nations aren't even in this tourney in Egypt and Algeria. Egypt played and beat mighty Belgium in a friendly match two days ago 2-1 in Kuwait. They could have done something in this tournament. Slovakia ain't in it this time. They were strong in 2010 though when they made the Round of 16. Any favorites for this tournament? My dad picked Brazil to win it.
Not from me. I’m one of those guys who only watches soccer when it’s the World Cup.
Or the olympics. It’s a patriotism thing for me haha.
Still cool. Gotta support our guys. I REALLY want our guys to beat England to shut up my friends from there who will invariably be chirping. We have players and can win. Check out the article below.
Danish journalist Rasmus Tantholdt was delivering a live report for broadcaster TV2 with his camera crew next to a Doha roundabout when footage shows Qatari officials driving a golf buggy approach. One of them tried to grab the camera, putting his hand over the lens, while two other people also exited the buggy.
Danish station TV2 said on its website: “The team was bluntly told that if they didn’t stop filming, their cameras would be destroyed.
My friend (also an American ex-pat who's stateside form the UAE) shared this with me a couple of days ago in a WhatsApp Group. Completely ridiculous when you get down to it. Give it a watch please everyone, especially for the guy driving the golf cart, lol!
Paranoia is a constant there in Gulf countries, DESPITE this being an opportunity for this World Cup tourney to be free advertising for them, they STILL managed to screw up something extremely basic.
TV reporter accosted by Qatar officials during live interview amid threats to break camera just days before World Cup - ( New Window )
Welcome to the UAE and Qatar. I despised my time in that part of the world. Most the Expats I met over a few holidays there felt the same….not that I felt bad for them. Most were there for the money.
What's an Expat?
Quote:
In comment 15912031 Vanzetti said:
Welcome to the UAE and Qatar. I despised my time in that part of the world. Most the Expats I met over a few holidays there felt the same….not that I felt bad for them. Most were there for the money.
What's an Expat?
Someone who lives in a country that's not his/her own for an indefinite period of time, often without becoming a citizen there. Lots of people are digital nomads and/or academics who do that. I made friends with a poster on BBI who's also an expat (no names).
Quote:
Qatar officials have apologised after a broadcast journalist's live TV report was interrupted amid threats to break his camera.
Danish journalist Rasmus Tantholdt was delivering a live report for broadcaster TV2 with his camera crew next to a Doha roundabout when footage shows Qatari officials driving a golf buggy approach. One of them tried to grab the camera, putting his hand over the lens, while two other people also exited the buggy.
Danish station TV2 said on its website: “The team was bluntly told that if they didn’t stop filming, their cameras would be destroyed.
My friend (also an American ex-pat who's stateside form the UAE) shared this with me a couple of days ago in a WhatsApp Group. Completely ridiculous when you get down to it. Give it a watch please everyone, especially for the guy driving the golf cart, lol!
Paranoia is a constant there in Gulf countries, DESPITE this being an opportunity for this World Cup tourney to be free advertising for them, they STILL managed to screw up something extremely basic.
TV reporter accosted by Qatar officials during live interview amid threats to break camera just days before World Cup - ( New Window )
That's fucking hilarious
Quote:
It might have something to do with InBev, the parent company of Budweiser being Belgian owned, and the Belgians being on the forefront of the woke movement against the Qatar World Cup, in regards to worker cruelty corruption, gay rights, etc.
Is it now "woke" to against worker cruelty, corruption, and gay rights?
Fuck me
I know. This usage of the term "woke" is about the dumbest phenomena around right now.
+1 Precisely. Well said sir. A British lady friend of mine was saying something along those lines in a WhatsApp Group I'm in today.
Arab Gulf countries are ill equipped logistically to deal with this. He had his permit and they receive an apology later. I saw a tweet in Arabic that when translated indicated that a designated official from the Qatari media office should have accompanied them, but didn't. The while thing was ridiculous. Free pub for your country, or neutral pub, and they managed to turn it into something negative. Just REALLY dumb stuff that could have been avoided. Guy who speaks broken English too dealing with the media over something totally innocent.
Quote:
2 hours. Do you mean to tell me that people can't go 2 hours without a beer? JFC.
They all can. But when you move mountains to get to and attend the event, it certainly sucks to have a basic accommodation (one that was previously approved) unavailable.
Agreed. And I find it funny when people project their own beliefs and habits on the the rest of society and if they don’t align they get insulted. People just traveled literally across the globe to watch their favorite teams play, and in many cases wanted to do so with a cold brew in their hand as they did so. It’s not that hard to understand.
(As I type from a bar on my 3rd Double IPA.)
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In comment 15912187 Gman11 said:
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2 hours. Do you mean to tell me that people can't go 2 hours without a beer? JFC.
They all can. But when you move mountains to get to and attend the event, it certainly sucks to have a basic accommodation (one that was previously approved) unavailable.
Agreed. And I find it funny when people project their own beliefs and habits on the the rest of society and if they don’t align they get insulted. People just traveled literally across the globe to watch their favorite teams play, and in many cases wanted to do so with a cold brew in their hand as they did so. It’s not that hard to understand.
It's also not so hard to understand that they don't allow alcoholic consumption in public in their stadiums or in a public space. Period. End of story. Not up for negotiation or discussion of any kind. This all should have just been pointed out earlier.
Changing the beers sales 2 days before and basically killing your biggest sponsor.
No reason it should be in Qatar.
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In comment 15912200 UConn4523 said:
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In comment 15912187 Gman11 said:
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2 hours. Do you mean to tell me that people can't go 2 hours without a beer? JFC.
They all can. But when you move mountains to get to and attend the event, it certainly sucks to have a basic accommodation (one that was previously approved) unavailable.
Agreed. And I find it funny when people project their own beliefs and habits on the the rest of society and if they don’t align they get insulted. People just traveled literally across the globe to watch their favorite teams play, and in many cases wanted to do so with a cold brew in their hand as they did so. It’s not that hard to understand.
It's also not so hard to understand that they don't allow alcoholic consumption in public in their stadiums or in a public space. Period. End of story. Not up for negotiation or discussion of any kind. This all should have just been pointed out earlier.
Its easy to understand its also not hard to understand that they said it would be allowed. They knew they would never get the world cup in Qatar if they said they wouldnt allow it. So they said they would, then two days before said "nah we dont allow it". Thats the BS of this whole thing. If they said all along it would not be allowed then this would be perfectly fine. And its not even about it being beer, what if they said all the woman who attend have to wear hijab's, or you can only wear Qatar team colors to all matches, etc... Its 2 days before, u said it would be allowed so it should be allowed. If I was FIFA id pull the Semi finals and finals and move them somewhere else. I know the logistics of that would be impossible, but screw Qatar. Of course screw FIFA to, ha.
Total corruption
Ny times - ( New Window )
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In comment 15912987 bradshaw44 said:
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In comment 15912200 UConn4523 said:
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In comment 15912187 Gman11 said:
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2 hours. Do you mean to tell me that people can't go 2 hours without a beer? JFC.
They all can. But when you move mountains to get to and attend the event, it certainly sucks to have a basic accommodation (one that was previously approved) unavailable.
Agreed. And I find it funny when people project their own beliefs and habits on the the rest of society and if they don’t align they get insulted. People just traveled literally across the globe to watch their favorite teams play, and in many cases wanted to do so with a cold brew in their hand as they did so. It’s not that hard to understand.
It's also not so hard to understand that they don't allow alcoholic consumption in public in their stadiums or in a public space. Period. End of story. Not up for negotiation or discussion of any kind. This all should have just been pointed out earlier.
Its easy to understand its also not hard to understand that they said it would be allowed. They knew they would never get the world cup in Qatar if they said they wouldnt allow it. So they said they would, then two days before said "nah we dont allow it". Thats the BS of this whole thing. If they said all along it would not be allowed then this would be perfectly fine. And its not even about it being beer, what if they said all the woman who attend have to wear hijab's, or you can only wear Qatar team colors to all matches, etc... Its 2 days before, u said it would be allowed so it should be allowed. If I was FIFA id pull the Semi finals and finals and move them somewhere else. I know the logistics of that would be impossible, but screw Qatar. Of course screw FIFA to, ha.
How it was handled was the problem, not the policy itself. The policy of no alcohol in the stadium is a wholeheartedly safe one. Plenty of fans go to games already and don't indulge. Hooliganism is a HUGE problem in large swathes of the footballing world and it needs to go the way of the dodo. The hijab comparison you made is not a good one by the way. That's not an issue in the GCC (Gulf Cooperating Countries) for non-Muslims or even Muslims. This isn't about religion. It's about corruption and going back and forth. The Shame of it is that it could have been handled in a much better way. But what do you expect when you're dealing with FIFA? Transparence? Haha!
If you've ever been to a football match (I don't say soccer because it's awkward to do so for most people in the world), you'd see how out of hand it can get when fans from Europe go kray-kray (not saying all of them are bad, but many are unfortunately). It's despicable and has no place in any society. My friend from England texted me this morning as we were discussing the issue over WhatsApp in a group with friends and former colleagues that she got held up by hooligans fighting with the police after a match as she was driving through the city she was working in after administering IELTS exams! Ridiculous stuff man. She saw cops getting tossed around too by these cretins. There should be a zero tolerance policy for that type of thing everywhere. It's not the why, but the how at the end of the day.
I got exposed to the shit at 13 back during the 1990 World Cup in The Sporting Club in Manhattan when I saw England play Egypt. I couldn't believe all the nutty stuff I saw (kinda liked it though since I was a young degenerate, lol!). Then I saw other crap as I got older. It's no joke. This is the right move, but done in a shady way. No question about that. I've dealt with it in the Gulf too when they would delay announcing official holidays until the day before, even though we know it was coming. They have to be in control at all times even when it's something which is fait accompli. I remember one time people's holidays were ruined over New Year's because of this, but that's another story, lol.
None of this surprises me one iota btw. It's a real shame because the weather there is beautiful now and people can have a good time in Dubai before hopping a charter flight and heading to Doha for the matches. One of my friends and former teammates (Colombian) wanted me to go because I speak Arabic. I told him you won't need me. This tournament would have been much better off being in a country like Morocco where they know how to deal with people and have logistical capabilities. The only problem thee is that they'll hustle your socks (and pants too) off! Let's see what happens. Go Team USA btw!
It's been a good thing in the sense that it shined a light on how terrible the Qatar regime is.
I'll still be watching though. Go USA!
We can't even consistently make the cup. Last time we lost to Trinadad and fucking Tabago which eliminated us from even competing. I'm not even certain this team can make it out of group like we did in 2014 when things were looking up for US Soccer.
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In comment 15912999 Optimus-NY said:
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In comment 15912987 bradshaw44 said:
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In comment 15912200 UConn4523 said:
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In comment 15912187 Gman11 said:
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2 hours. Do you mean to tell me that people can't go 2 hours without a beer? JFC.
They all can. But when you move mountains to get to and attend the event, it certainly sucks to have a basic accommodation (one that was previously approved) unavailable.
Agreed. And I find it funny when people project their own beliefs and habits on the the rest of society and if they don’t align they get insulted. People just traveled literally across the globe to watch their favorite teams play, and in many cases wanted to do so with a cold brew in their hand as they did so. It’s not that hard to understand.
It's also not so hard to understand that they don't allow alcoholic consumption in public in their stadiums or in a public space. Period. End of story. Not up for negotiation or discussion of any kind. This all should have just been pointed out earlier.
Its easy to understand its also not hard to understand that they said it would be allowed. They knew they would never get the world cup in Qatar if they said they wouldnt allow it. So they said they would, then two days before said "nah we dont allow it". Thats the BS of this whole thing. If they said all along it would not be allowed then this would be perfectly fine. And its not even about it being beer, what if they said all the woman who attend have to wear hijab's, or you can only wear Qatar team colors to all matches, etc... Its 2 days before, u said it would be allowed so it should be allowed. If I was FIFA id pull the Semi finals and finals and move them somewhere else. I know the logistics of that would be impossible, but screw Qatar. Of course screw FIFA to, ha.
How it was handled was the problem, not the policy itself. The policy of no alcohol in the stadium is a wholeheartedly safe one. Plenty of fans go to games already and don't indulge. Hooliganism is a HUGE problem in large swathes of the footballing world and it needs to go the way of the dodo. The hijab comparison you made is not a good one by the way. That's not an issue in the GCC (Gulf Cooperating Countries) for non-Muslims or even Muslims. This isn't about religion. It's about corruption and going back and forth. The Shame of it is that it could have been handled in a much better way. But what do you expect when you're dealing with FIFA? Transparence? Haha!
If you've ever been to a football match (I don't say soccer because it's awkward to do so for most people in the world), you'd see how out of hand it can get when fans from Europe go kray-kray (not saying all of them are bad, but many are unfortunately). It's despicable and has no place in any society. My friend from England texted me this morning as we were discussing the issue over WhatsApp in a group with friends and former colleagues that she got held up by hooligans fighting with the police after a match as she was driving through the city she was working in after administering IELTS exams! Ridiculous stuff man. She saw cops getting tossed around too by these cretins. There should be a zero tolerance policy for that type of thing everywhere. It's not the why, but the how at the end of the day.
I got exposed to the shit at 13 back during the 1990 World Cup in The Sporting Club in Manhattan when I saw England play Egypt. I couldn't believe all the nutty stuff I saw (kinda liked it though since I was a young degenerate, lol!). Then I saw other crap as I got older. It's no joke. This is the right move, but done in a shady way. No question about that. I've dealt with it in the Gulf too when they would delay announcing official holidays until the day before, even though we know it was coming. They have to be in control at all times even when it's something which is fait accompli. I remember one time people's holidays were ruined over New Year's because of this, but that's another story, lol.
None of this surprises me one iota btw. It's a real shame because the weather there is beautiful now and people can have a good time in Dubai before hopping a charter flight and heading to Doha for the matches. One of my friends and former teammates (Colombian) wanted me to go because I speak Arabic. I told him you won't need me. This tournament would have been much better off being in a country like Morocco where they know how to deal with people and have logistical capabilities. The only problem thee is that they'll hustle your socks (and pants too) off! Let's see what happens. Go Team USA btw!
Completely agree with this take. Three times in the past decade I have attended a match in England, a civilized Western country, with my family only to have to leave early because of violence in the stands near us as drunken idiots started fighting. None of these involved opposing teams' fans fighting but just a bunch of crazies who came to drink and be obnoxious rather than enjoy the match. Should have taken this action months ago.
As for the bashing of Qatar, what a joke. Bash FIFA for picking Qatar. The country did not just become a monarchy with strict Islamic laws and a reliance upon slave labor. It is what it is and that should have been a consideration up front. Maybe FIFA should have returned to a more civilized nation, like Russia! Guess they did not pay the same level of bribes.
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Completely agree with this take. Three times in the past decade I have attended a match in England, a civilized Western country, with my family only to have to leave early because of violence in the stands near us as drunken idiots started fighting. None of these involved opposing teams' fans fighting but just a bunch of crazies who came to drink and be obnoxious rather than enjoy the match. Should have taken this action months ago.
As for the bashing of Qatar, what a joke. Bash FIFA for picking Qatar. The country did not just become a monarchy with strict Islamic laws and a reliance upon slave labor. It is what it is and that should have been a consideration up front. Maybe FIFA should have returned to a more civilized nation, like Russia! Guess they did not pay the same level of bribes.
+1 - So sorry you went through that Jeffrey.
Hooliganism is disgusting and SEVERE judicial penalties and fines against those caught participating should be enforced to deter their deleterious behavior. It seems some fans on this thread ar either unaware or choosing to ignore how difficult these people are to handle. The banning of alcohol at games is good.
As far as FIFA is concerned, they are the ones who are to be blamed for all this. Slave labor issues and total lack of media savvy aside, Qatar is a safe place to visit and take in games at state-of-the-art stadiums, but they are logistically incapable of handling the massive amounts of people (and be extension media) who attend the World Cup. I saw a video of a guy from Spain who planned in walking to Qatar from Madrid back in January! No joke! Click HERE to see the short video.
Their unsophisticated---or dare I say common sense-less approach to media relations is another huge issue. Paranoia is ingrained in them, and they've already gotten embarrassed because of it. t could have been so much nicer since the weather there now is beautiful. They've hosted tournaments before (The Arab Cup last year around this time when I was in the UAE) successfully, but this is an ENIRELY different kettle of fish. What do yo expect when you put these two together (FIFA and the host nation)? Anywho, it is what it is. Go team USA! The first game will be starting in a few minutes between the hosts and Ecuador (see link below to the Opening Ceremony).
FIFA World Cup Opening Ceremony - Fox Sports link - ( New Window )
For Westerners it is totally fine. You're privileged there as a Westerner in the GCC.
I couldn't see the offsides there.
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0-0 now
I couldn't see the offsides there.
Me neither man. Home cooking? lol
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Is a hell of a way to start a statement praising a country for how safe it is.
For Westerners it is totally fine. You're privileged there as a Westerner in the GCC.
Well if that’s the case then slave labor is a-ok huh.
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In comment 15913467 RicFlair said:
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Is a hell of a way to start a statement praising a country for how safe it is.
For Westerners it is totally fine. You're privileged there as a Westerner in the GCC.
Well if that’s the case then slave labor is a-ok huh.
Who said that? lol. What's wrong with you man?
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In comment 15913480 Optimus-NY said:
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In comment 15913467 RicFlair said:
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Is a hell of a way to start a statement praising a country for how safe it is.
For Westerners it is totally fine. You're privileged there as a Westerner in the GCC.
Well if that’s the case then slave labor is a-ok huh.
Who said that? lol. What's wrong with you man?
Slave labor isn’t something you just brush aside because they are nice to westerners.
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In comment 15913509 RicFlair said:
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In comment 15913480 Optimus-NY said:
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In comment 15913467 RicFlair said:
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Is a hell of a way to start a statement praising a country for how safe it is.
For Westerners it is totally fine. You're privileged there as a Westerner in the GCC.
Well if that’s the case then slave labor is a-ok huh.
Who said that? lol. What's wrong with you man?
Slave labor isn’t something you just brush aside because they are nice to westerners.
Of course it's wrong. I was talking about safety. Separate things. In GCC countries you have no worries about being assaulted and if you lose your wallet or your phone in public you're almost guaranteed to get them back. I've worked and lived in the GCC a long time so don't lecture me about what I've seen. Of course it's despicable. You can't exactly go disputing it when you're there, otherwise you're deported. I don't appreciate the assertion you think I'm ok with it either.
Ended on my part. RicFlair had me triggered. Apologies.
Nice goal by Valencia!
This is a thread about Qatar as the host country. Valid convo.
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and hash it out there?
This is a thread about Qatar as the host country. Valid convo.
Cool, it seems very productive.
This is true.
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In comment 15913528 UConn4523 said:
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and hash it out there?
This is a thread about Qatar as the host country. Valid convo.
Cool, it seems very productive.
I wouldn’t talk about it in a game thread.
USA and Wales tomorrow at 2 pm ET. Looking forward to that. Someone will start a thread for it tomorrow I'm sure and we can comment on it there.
USA and Wales tomorrow at 2 pm ET. Looking forward to that. Someone will start a thread for it tomorrow I'm sure and we can comment on it there.
The winner of USA Wales will be the winner of the cup.
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Senegal and Holland are the other two teams in this Group (Group A). Mane ain't playing for Senegal, so expect Holland and Ecuador to come out of this group.
USA and Wales tomorrow at 2 pm ET. Looking forward to that. Someone will start a thread for it tomorrow I'm sure and we can comment on it there.
The winner of USA Wales will be the winner of the cup.
England, Iran, USA and Wales in Group B. Gonna be competitive. you think we're getting past England? I hope of course.
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In comment 15913660 Optimus-NY said:
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Senegal and Holland are the other two teams in this Group (Group A). Mane ain't playing for Senegal, so expect Holland and Ecuador to come out of this group.
USA and Wales tomorrow at 2 pm ET. Looking forward to that. Someone will start a thread for it tomorrow I'm sure and we can comment on it there.
The winner of USA Wales will be the winner of the cup.
England, Iran, USA and Wales in Group B. Gonna be competitive. you think we're getting past England? I hope of course.
Hahah no just my allegiances go USA, Wales. I assume Slovakia isn’t in it lol.
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In comment 15913714 RicFlair said:
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In comment 15913660 Optimus-NY said:
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Senegal and Holland are the other two teams in this Group (Group A). Mane ain't playing for Senegal, so expect Holland and Ecuador to come out of this group.
USA and Wales tomorrow at 2 pm ET. Looking forward to that. Someone will start a thread for it tomorrow I'm sure and we can comment on it there.
The winner of USA Wales will be the winner of the cup.
England, Iran, USA and Wales in Group B. Gonna be competitive. you think we're getting past England? I hope of course.
Hahah no just my allegiances go USA, Wales. I assume Slovakia isn’t in it lol.
Oh definitely Go USA! I root for Egypt too, but they got screwed in the African Nations Qualifiers. The two best teams on the continent wound up playing one another for one spot, them and Senegal. Go figure. Egypt lost on penalties. Mane is out so there's that. Senegal won't be doing squat this tourney. The best Arab nations aren't even in this tourney in Egypt and Algeria. Egypt played and beat mighty Belgium in a friendly match two days ago 2-1 in Kuwait. They could have done something in this tournament. Slovakia ain't in it this time. They were strong in 2010 though when they made the Round of 16. Any favorites for this tournament? My dad picked Brazil to win it.
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In comment 15913777 Optimus-NY said:
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In comment 15913714 RicFlair said:
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In comment 15913660 Optimus-NY said:
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Senegal and Holland are the other two teams in this Group (Group A). Mane ain't playing for Senegal, so expect Holland and Ecuador to come out of this group.
USA and Wales tomorrow at 2 pm ET. Looking forward to that. Someone will start a thread for it tomorrow I'm sure and we can comment on it there.
The winner of USA Wales will be the winner of the cup.
England, Iran, USA and Wales in Group B. Gonna be competitive. you think we're getting past England? I hope of course.
Hahah no just my allegiances go USA, Wales. I assume Slovakia isn’t in it lol.
Oh definitely Go USA! I root for Egypt too, but they got screwed in the African Nations Qualifiers. The two best teams on the continent wound up playing one another for one spot, them and Senegal. Go figure. Egypt lost on penalties. Mane is out so there's that. Senegal won't be doing squat this tourney. The best Arab nations aren't even in this tourney in Egypt and Algeria. Egypt played and beat mighty Belgium in a friendly match two days ago 2-1 in Kuwait. They could have done something in this tournament. Slovakia ain't in it this time. They were strong in 2010 though when they made the Round of 16. Any favorites for this tournament? My dad picked Brazil to win it.
Not from me. I’m one of those guys who only watches soccer when it’s the World Cup.
Or the olympics. It’s a patriotism thing for me haha.
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In comment 15913837 RicFlair said:
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In comment 15913777 Optimus-NY said:
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In comment 15913714 RicFlair said:
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In comment 15913660 Optimus-NY said:
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Senegal and Holland are the other two teams in this Group (Group A). Mane ain't playing for Senegal, so expect Holland and Ecuador to come out of this group.
USA and Wales tomorrow at 2 pm ET. Looking forward to that. Someone will start a thread for it tomorrow I'm sure and we can comment on it there.
The winner of USA Wales will be the winner of the cup.
England, Iran, USA and Wales in Group B. Gonna be competitive. you think we're getting past England? I hope of course.
Hahah no just my allegiances go USA, Wales. I assume Slovakia isn’t in it lol.
Oh definitely Go USA! I root for Egypt too, but they got screwed in the African Nations Qualifiers. The two best teams on the continent wound up playing one another for one spot, them and Senegal. Go figure. Egypt lost on penalties. Mane is out so there's that. Senegal won't be doing squat this tourney. The best Arab nations aren't even in this tourney in Egypt and Algeria. Egypt played and beat mighty Belgium in a friendly match two days ago 2-1 in Kuwait. They could have done something in this tournament. Slovakia ain't in it this time. They were strong in 2010 though when they made the Round of 16. Any favorites for this tournament? My dad picked Brazil to win it.
Not from me. I’m one of those guys who only watches soccer when it’s the World Cup.
Or the olympics. It’s a patriotism thing for me haha.
Still cool. Gotta support our guys. I REALLY want our guys to beat England to shut up my friends from there who will invariably be chirping. We have players and can win. Check out the article below.
Why the US men’s World Cup soccer team is actually good for once - by Kirsten Fleming - nypost.com | November 18, 2022 - ( New Window )