The Amir Cup final between Al Sadd and Al Rayyan gave the world a glimpse of what they will experience at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. Friday’s title clash of Qatar’s most popular football tournament also marked the opening of the spectacular FIFA World Cup venue, Al Thumama Stadium - the sixth tournament-ready venue after the Khalifa International, Al Janoub, Education City, Ahmad Bin Ali and Al Bayt stadiums.
The 40,000-seater Al Thumama Stadium operated at full capacity as the thrilling final between country’s football giants created an electrifying atmosphere. Al Sadd managed to retain their title after winning the final 5-4 on penalties following a 1-1 draw. Amir H H Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani crowned the champions while FIFA President Gianni Infantino was also present.
It was the first time in the country that a packed stadium with such a number of spectators witnessed a football match since the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted sports last year, signaling return to normalcy. Enthusiasts who have either recently recovered from the coronavirus or have been vaccinated were allowed to attend the match. Thousands of fans supporting their teams created the buzz, which gave a FIFA World Cup match-like feeling. Ahead of the final, mostly children performed in front of 40,000 fans in an impressive opening ceremony of the spectacular FIFA World Cup venue. Stunning fireworks at the venue also wowed fans before and after the final.
Al Thumama Stadium will host FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 matches through to the quarter-finals and will also play a prominent role during this year’s FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2021.
The design of the venue represents the gahfiya – a traditional woven cap worn by men and boys across the Middle East. “It has a very special place in our heart. I mean it is part of our national headgear or national dress,” said Secretary General at Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy Hassan Al Thawadi. “With 13 months to go, I’m very proud to say that we are definitely on schedule to hosting the fans in the first World Cup in the Middle East and the Arab world.”
Two more World Cup venues - Ras Abu Aboud and Al Bayt stadiums – are next in line to be opened during the first FIFA Arab Cup, which will be staged from November 30 to December 18 bringing together Arab World’s best sides.
Lusail Stadium, which will host the Qatar 2022 final, is expected to be opened early next year. After the success of Amir Cup final, FIFA Arab Cup is also expected to give fans amazing experience as Qatar is ready to stage the eagerly-awaited tournament before it hosts the big one – the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022.
