Qatar World cup to kick-off from tomorrow

The 22nd edition of the FIFA World Cup football tournament is kicking-off tomorrow in the Arab country, Qatar. All 32 teams for the World Cup have reached Qatar after completing warm-up matches. Fans from different countries are also arriving to witness the event. Qatar will be home to thousands of football fans for a month. The Qatari government is committed to preserving its uniqueness even as it becomes a meeting place of different languages, cultures and cuisines.

Malayalis in Doha

Many Malayalis arrive in groups in Qatar to join the world cup celebrations. Former players and coaches are among the list of visitors. Keralites from other Arab countries are also coming to Qatar to be part of this.

The opening match of the World Cup is tomorrow at 9.30 pm IST, between the hosts Qatar and Ecuador. On the first day there is only one match.

No liquor in stadiums

FIFA banned liquor in World Cup stadiums. In Qatar, where alcohol is banned, those arriving from abroad are only allowed to drink alcohol in specially approved fan centres. Following FIFA's intervention, the Qatari government has relaxed its traditional restrictions, but remains strict about not allowing liquor in stadiums.