World media in awe

THE international media soaked up the brilliant atmosphere at the Khalifa International Stadium as the Emir’s Cup final marked the inauguration of 2022 FIFA World Cup’s first venue. 

“It’s a matter of pride for Qatar to inaugurate the first of the eight World Cup venues five years before the event. It was a great experience and it’ll leave a lasting impression on everyone,” said Doha-based sports head (Arabic service) of German news agency Deutsche Presse Agentur Ahmed Zahran. 

The stadium, built in 1976, had hosted several top international events, including the 2006 Asian Games Opening and Closing Ceremonies and 2011 Asian Cup final. 

With modernity now juxtaposed with history, the world media was always keen to see and feel the experience at the venue. 

Approximately, 500 jet nozzles blasted out cold air during the match, keeping the temperatures at 20 degrees Celsius while it was 37 outside during the match.

“It’s summer and yet we didn’t feel the heat. The cooling technology provided made people comfortable. I think it was a fabulous experience covering a match at this venue,” added Zahran. 

On an important day in Qatar football history, there was a huge round of applause after it was announced that 47,322 spectators watched the final at the renovated stadium that has a total capacity of 48,850.

“The huge presence of fans summed it up. It’s a great moment for Qatar and the region. The country showed it’s now ready for the 2022 FIFA competition,” said Algerian newspaper Al Hadaf’s editor Radwan Bouhnika. 

Jordan’s Al Rai daily’s editor Mamoun Baidoun said he had expected such an atmosphere as Qatar has always delivered with a touch of class. 

“The stadium was an extension of the great piece of work done by Qatar over the last decade right from the 2006 Asian Games. I’m honoured to be a part of this historic moment,” said Baidoun.