It’s been twelve years since FIFA elected Qatar for the 2022 World Cup and since then, there has been a slew of controversy and storylines surrounding what could arguably be the most anticipated World Cup in history.

For the first time ever, the World Cup is taking place in winter. Qatar’s summers are  extremely hot and humid, creating unsuitable playing conditions. To play during the winter, the World Cup has halted the play in leagues worldwide. This has consequently led to many more players getting injured due to the rescheduling of games to account for the World Cup. Notable players that have gotten injured include Paul Pogba and N’golo Kante of France, Marco Reus and Timo Werner of Germany, Diogo Jota of Portugal, Reece James of England and many more along with some players who are questionable for action. 

Leading up to the World Cup, Qatar has been under fire as people are questioning the safety and legality of migrant workers who have moved to Qatar to build the seven huge industrial stadiums. It has been revealed that around 6,500 migrant workers have died since building the stadium. In addition to the already skeptical business practices between FIFA and Qatar, the result has left many nations and fans boycotting the World Cup or making promises of using World Cup revenue as donations to help the migrant workers of Qatar. 

Leading the charge in this World Cup is Brazil. Easily the favorites to win, Brazil has put together an incredible attack along with a stellar defense. Neymar Jr., Vinicious Jr. and Antony are all players that have established themselves as some of the best in the game with Thiago Silva and Marquinos as an experienced center back pairing. 

However, not all of the top nations made the World Cup. The most shocking team missing out is Italy, a team that went on a historic run winning UEFA’s EURO 2020 tournament. They have gone on to crumble during World Cup qualifying, ultimately losing 1-0 to North Macedonia and missing out on their World Cup dreams for the second year in a row. 

For many veterans of the game, this World Cup will be their last. Superstars and soccer icons  Lionel Messi of Argentina and Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal are competing in their fifth World Cup each, and they will both be trying to win their first World Cup trophy. Messi and Ronaldo both have some of the best squads of their career, and if they were to play against each other, it would be in the finals. 

Also accompanying this World Cup are many young talented players getting their first chance to play in the biggest international tourney. Players like Jamal Musiala of Germany, Pedri and Gavi of Spain, Jude Bellingham of England and Christian Pulisic of the United States are headlining and have the talent to make a big impact during their first World Cup appearances. 

The Qatar World Cup will be kicking off with Qatar vs Ecuador on Nov. 20, and the tournament will run until a winner is crowned on Dec. 18.