Despite a new wave of COVID-19 triggered by Omicron, Qatar is living up to expectations, helping other countries staging their sports events due to its vast experience of battling with the virus. Last week, the FIFA World Cup 2022 host country staged the Turkish Super Cup match between Besiktas and Antalyaspor at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium with success.
Besiktas won the match, which was held under strict COVID-19 protocols. Only 25% of Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium’s capacity was allowed with the Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) and organisers enforcing strict safety measures.
The match was one of the many dress rehearsal events Qatar is hosting ahead of organising the FIFA World Cup. Over the past two years, Doha hosted many important official international matches amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, such as the AFC Champions League competitions for the West and East regions and the AFC Champions League final in 2020.
Doha also hosted the Italian Super Cup in 2014 and 2016, and other international friendly matches due to its enormous organisational capabilities and distinguished facilities that make it the premier destination for various football events.
Qatar is also hosting Afghanistan for its home ODI cricket series against the Netherlands to be played later this month. With Qatar leading a generous international help to Afghanistan people in the past, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has made Qatar as its second home and will also host its future international matches in Doha.
Last week, Afghanistan team has brought 31 players and support staff members for the ICC Super League ODI Series for the 2023 World Cup Qualifier. Besides the three ODIs on January 21, 23 and 25 against the Netherlands, the Afghanistan team will have practice sessions and friendly matches against Qatar as well. Qatar Cricket Association President Sheikh Abdulaziz bin Saud bin Abdulrahman Al Thani said: “QCA is pleased that the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has adopted Qatar as its new home. We’re fully geared up to provide whatever the ACB needs to organise practice and matches here.”
Apart from assisting other countries, Qatar is also expected to continue hosting its scheduled events this month which includes Qatar Amateur Golf Championship, the Ultimate Race triathlon event (Katara), ITF tennis events and Qatar Fencing Grand Prix, with King of Court beach volleyball event concluding successfully yesterday.
