How do you even begin to describe the FIFA World Cup to someone who isn’t interested in soccer?
Well, for starters, it’s up there as one of the greatest sporting competitions ever created.
Since the first ever World Cup held in Uruguay way back in 1930, every four years we are treated to a month-long celebration of soccer, with the best players in the world on show.
From the mingling of cultures in fan zones, to the noise and colour in the stadiums. From the excitement of those watching their country play thousands of miles away, to the disappointment of being knocked out. It’s special.
The number of teams that can qualify has grown consistently over the last few years, with 32 teams now in with a chance of making it to next year’s tournament in Qatar, and Canada could be one of them.
Canada has only ever qualified for one World Cup, and that was back in 1986 when the competition was hosted by Mexico. The less said about that appearance the better, because the Canadians finished in 24th place, and that’s when only 24 teams were playing…
But this is a new era for Canadian soccer and they’re not doing too bad in the qualifiers!
After a 4-1 win against Panama last week, a victory over El Salvador, and four draws against Honduras, Jamacia, Mexico and the USA, they sit in third place, behind neighbours Mexico and the USA.
Canada’s next game is against Costa Rica, before they play everyone again. Should they keep their unbeaten record intact, and pick up the odd win against the lower ranked teams like El Salvador and Honduras, Canadians MIGHT be able to start dreaming about a trip to Qatar late next year.
The tournament will take place in November and December to avoid the intense heat of the Qatari summer, but four years later, it’ll once again be played in the summer when it will be hosted by Canada, Mexico and the USA.
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