The 2022 FIFA World Cup draw took place in Doha, Qatar on Friday evening. England fans will be somewhat relieved to learn that they have been drawn in Group B alongside the USA, Iran, and either Wales, Scotland or Ukraine, setting up some potentially fiery fixtures in households around Great Britain and the rest of the world.
2022 FIFA World Cup Draw – Favourable Group for England
World Cup Draw in Full
Gareth Southgate and his side got a favourable draw in Doha. The Euro 2020 finalists will face the USA, Iran, and one of Scotland, Wales or Ukraine.
Wales will play either Scotland or Ukraine in the play-off final. It is yet to be seen whether Ukraine will be able to play Scotland due to the Russian invasion of the country.
The full draw can be seen below, with some very interesting games to look forward to.
The #FIFAWorldCup groups are set 🤩
We can't wait! 🏆#FinalDraw pic.twitter.com/uaDfdIvbaZ
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) April 1, 2022
Qatar 2022 CEO Responds to Southgate’s concerns.
The CEO of the 2022 World Cup Nasser Al Khater responded to Gareth Southgate’s concerns surrounding the treatment of migrant workers in Qatar.
Ahead of England’s friendlies with Switzerland and Ivory Coast, Southgate told the press: “From a personal position, there are clearly human rights issues that are of concern.
“We want a game that’s inclusive.
“We have got certain parts of our fan base who might feel uncomfortable travelling to the World Cup.
“There have obviously been issues with the building of the stadiums. We can’t affect that now.
“There are ongoing concerns about workers’ rights.
“I think it’s important that we give the players that background, that understanding.
“When I was being asked those questions before Christmas, it was hard to get a real full understanding of exactly what these issues were.
“I’m clearer now, I feel I can articulate that better to the players.
“We’ll see the best way of approaching that next week.”
Al Khater hit back at the former Middlesbrough boss in an exclusive interview with Sky Sports. He said: “My question would be, who from the England squad has come to Qatar? My question to the coach is, has he been to Qatar? Is he basing his opinions and his public statements on what he has read?
“It is kind of an issue if you’re basing your opinions and you are very vocal about that based on things you have read.
Somebody with a lot of influence, such as Southgate, ought to pick his words very carefully.”
With the tournament still eight months away, it is yet to be seen if any countries will protest against its taking place in Qatar while participating.
Main Photo
