Germany&nbsp;coach Hansi Flick expressed his disappointment with FIFA's decision to ban players from wearing a "OneLove" armband at the World Cup. Speaking to media on Tuesday (November 22), the day before&nbsp;Germany&nbsp;take on Japan, Flick said his team had wanted to make the statement to promote LGBT rights, but FIFA's short-notice decision to ban the armbands before England took on Iran on Monday (November 21) meant there was no time to coordinate with the other countries.

The&nbsp;federations of England, Wales, Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland,&nbsp;Germany&nbsp;and Denmark had said on Monday they had been put under pressure by FIFA, who had threatened to issue yellow cards to any player wearing the multi-coloured armband. "The team is very unhappy and shocked that something like this is not allowed because it is just a sign for human rights and diversity and they are also the values that we as a team live and represent."Flick told a news conference.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-broadcast-tv-and-ott-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-morocco-vs-croatia-536665">FIFA World Cup 2022 Broadcast TV and OTT-Live Streaming: When and where to watch Morocco vs Croatia?</a>

Germany&nbsp;midfielder Joshua Kimmich said while players had nothing to do with awarding the tournament to Qatar 12 years ago, he would still like to be able to enjoy the competition. The DFB earlier told Reuters it was now checking all its options following FIFA's decision.&nbsp;

It is to be noted that Germany’s football federation plans legal steps against FIFA&nbsp;over its banning of OneLove rainbow armbands as it faced the humiliating decision by one of the country’s largest supermarket chains to cut its commercial ties over the issue. Moreover, the soccer federations who had planned to don the 'OneLove'&nbsp;armbands have faced "extreme blackmail" which eventually led to them not going ahead with the gesture, the German Football Association (DFB) claimed.

Germany coach Hansi Flick expressed his disappointment with FIFA's decision to ban players from wearing a "OneLove" armband at the World Cup. Speaking to media on Tuesday (November 22), the day before Germany take on Japan, Flick said his team had wanted to make the statement to promote LGBT rights, but FIFA's short-notice decision to ban the armbands before England took on Iran on Monday (November 21) meant there was no time to coordinate with the other countries.

Germany coach Hansi Flick expressed his disappointment with FIFA's decision to ban players from wearing a "OneLove" armband at the World Cup. Speaking to media on Tuesday (November 22), the day before Germany take on Japan, Flick said his team had wanted to make the statement to promote LGBT rights, but FIFA's short-notice decision to ban the armbands before England took on Iran on Monday (November 21) meant there was no time to coordinate with the other countries. The federations of England, Wales, Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany and Denmark had said on Monday they had been put under pressure by FIFA, who had threatened to issue yellow cards to any player wearing the multi-coloured armband. "The team is very unhappy and shocked that something like this is not allowed because it is just a sign for human rights and diversity and they are also the values that we as a team live and represent."Flick told a news conference. Also read: FIFA World Cup 2022 Broadcast TV and OTT-Live Streaming: When and where to watch Morocco vs Croatia? Germany midfielder Joshua Kimmich said while players had nothing to do with awarding the tournament to Qatar 12 years ago, he would still like to be able to enjoy the competition. The DFB earlier told Reuters it was now checking all its options following FIFA's decision. It is to be noted that Germany’s football federation plans legal steps against FIFA over its banning of OneLove rainbow armbands as it faced the humiliating decision by one of the country’s largest supermarket chains to cut its commercial ties over the issue. Moreover, the soccer federations who had planned to don the 'OneLove' armbands have faced "extreme blackmail" which eventually led to them not going ahead with the gesture, the German Football Association (DFB) claimed.

Qatar World Cup: Germany coach reacts to FIFA's ban on players wearing a 'OneLove' armband

Spain thrashed Costa Rica 7-0 on Wednesday, their biggest-ever winning margin at a World Cup, helped by two goals by Ferran Torres and strikes by five other players to send a resounding message to the rest of the teams in Qatar.

Spain were mindful of the shock defeats suffered by Argentina and Group E rivals Germany against lower opposition in their opening matches and they tormented Costa Rica from the start, going 3-0 up after little more than 30 minutes.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-tennis-legend-rafael-nadal-backs-argentina-to-return-stronger-after-shocking-loss-536893">FIFA World Cup 2022: Tennis legend Rafael Nadal backs Argentina to return stronger after shocking loss</a>

Dani Olmo got the goals flowing in the 11th minute when he exchanged passes with Gavi and chipped Costa Rica goalkeeper Keylor Navas. Ten minutes later, Marco Asensio timed a run into the box perfectly to connect powerfully with a Jordi Alba cross.

Torres stroked home his penalty in the 31st minute and the Barcelona winger claimed his second in the 54th when he took advantage of hesitant defending. Gavi, the youngest player to represent Spain at a World Cup, struck with a perfectly hit volley in the 74th minute before substitutes Carlos Soler and Alvaro Morata rounded off a totally one-sided encounter.

Spain will now take on Germany in their second group match on Monday, November 28th.

Spain thrashed Costa Rica 7-0 on Wednesday, their biggest-ever winning margin at a World Cup, helped by two goals by Ferran Torres and strikes by five other players to send a resounding message to the rest of the teams in Qatar.

Spain thrashed Costa Rica 7-0 on Wednesday, their biggest-ever winning margin at a World Cup, helped by two goals by Ferran Torres and strikes by five other players to send a resounding message to the rest of the teams in Qatar. Spain were mindful of the shock defeats suffered by Argentina and Group E rivals Germany against lower opposition in their opening matches and they tormented Costa Rica from the start, going 3-0 up after little more than 30 minutes. ALSO READ: FIFA World Cup 2022: Tennis legend Rafael Nadal backs Argentina to return stronger after shocking loss Dani Olmo got the goals flowing in the 11th minute when he exchanged passes with Gavi and chipped Costa Rica goalkeeper Keylor Navas. Ten minutes later, Marco Asensio timed a run into the box perfectly to connect powerfully with a Jordi Alba cross. Torres stroked home his penalty in the 31st minute and the Barcelona winger claimed his second in the 54th when he took advantage of hesitant defending. Gavi, the youngest player to represent Spain at a World Cup, struck with a perfectly hit volley in the 74th minute before substitutes Carlos Soler and Alvaro Morata rounded off a totally one-sided encounter. Spain will now take on Germany in their second group match on Monday, November 28th.

Spain stamp authority in FIFA World Cup 2022, floor Costa Rica 7-0 in group opener

Saudi Arabia has long sought a place for itself on the global sports landscape. The wait ended Tuesday when the kingdom’s FIFA World Cup team registered an unexpected 2-1 victory over Lionel Messi’s Argentina. This was a remarkable feat as the country has never won the first match in any FIFA World Cup, facing an 8-0 defeat by Germany in 2002 and a 5-0 loss to Russia in 2018. By defeating Argentina, Saudi players broke their 36-match winning streak in a historic upset.&nbsp;To mark this historic World Cup victory, the Kingdom’s authorities have announced a public holiday on Wednesday, 23th November, 2022. This means that all private and public employees, including all students at any educational stage, will get a holiday today in Saudi Arabia.

<h2>Public Holiday announced in Saudi Arabia</h2>

Saudi Arabia’s football game against Argentina was celebrated as a festival in the Gulf nation. Universities gave the afternoon off to students to let them watch the live broadcast. City streets were almost abandoned. When Saudi Arabia emerged victorious, authorities took no time in announcing Wednesday as a public holiday.

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Saudi Arabia fans really hit the Ronaldo 'SIU' celebration after their win against Argentina 😅 
 
(via <a href="https://twitter.com/marca?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@marca</a>) <a href="https://t.co/8vKCSIU08R">pic.twitter.com/8vKCSIU08R</a>
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Saudi Prime Minister <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MohammedBinSalman?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MohammedBinSalman</a> fell in prostration after <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SaudiArabia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SaudiArabia</a> 🇸🇦 won match against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Argentina?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Argentina</a> 🇦🇷. <a href="https://t.co/ipJwoOEPur">pic.twitter.com/ipJwoOEPur</a>
— 🎙The Milli Chronicle (@millichronicle) <a href="https://twitter.com/millichronicle/status/1595070054865199104?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Congratulations Saudi Arabia! 👏🏻 
“🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia become the first Muslim country to win a game at this World Cup by defeating one of the tournament favourites, Argentina.” 
Alhamdulillah 😊<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FIFAWorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIFAWorldCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/z9UUxnfSCS">pic.twitter.com/z9UUxnfSCS</a>
— Syeda Fatima! (@SyedaNaqvi50) <a href="https://twitter.com/SyedaNaqvi50/status/1595257932060442624?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 23, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-offside-traps-and-pure-grit-how-saudi-arabia-stunned-argentina-and-the-world-536502">FIFA World Cup 2022: Offside traps and pure grit - How Saudi Arabia stunned Argentina and the world</a>

<h2>Who can avail the public holiday on Wednesday?</h2>

As per Saudi authorities, all employees of the private as well as public sector will be given a public holiday on Wednesday. The government announced that all male and female students in all education stages can also avail this holiday. This is exam season in Saudi Arabia, so exams will have to be rescheduled.

<h2>Free entries announced in theme parks and entertainment sectors</h2>

An advisor to the Royal Court and the chairman of Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority, Turki al-Sheikh, made the announcement on Twitter that Tuesday will see the free entrance in the country's top theme parks and entertainment venues. After the final whistle, celebrations erupted in spontaneous dance circles throughout the capital Riyadh. Males and females were seen hanging out together in cafes and restaurants to have fun, a new and rare trend emerging in the Islamic nation under reformist Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Saudi Arabia has long sought a place for itself on the global sports landscape. The wait ended Tuesday when the kingdom’s FIFA World Cup team registered an unexpected 2-1 victory over Lionel Messi’s Argentina.

Saudi Arabia has long sought a place for itself on the global sports landscape. The wait ended Tuesday when the kingdom’s FIFA World Cup team registered an unexpected 2-1 victory over Lionel Messi’s Argentina. This was a remarkable feat as the country has never won the first match in any FIFA World Cup, facing an 8-0 defeat by Germany in 2002 and a 5-0 loss to Russia in 2018. By defeating Argentina, Saudi players broke their 36-match winning streak in a historic upset. To mark this historic World Cup victory, the Kingdom’s authorities have announced a public holiday on Wednesday, 23th November, 2022. This means that all private and public employees, including all students at any educational stage, will get a holiday today in Saudi Arabia. Public Holiday announced in Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia’s football game against Argentina was celebrated as a festival in the Gulf nation. Universities gave the afternoon off to students to let them watch the live broadcast. City streets were almost abandoned. When Saudi Arabia emerged victorious, authorities took no time in announcing Wednesday as a public holiday. Saudi Arabia fans really hit the Ronaldo 'SIU' celebration after their win against Argentina 😅 (via @marca) pic.twitter.com/8vKCSIU08R — ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) November 22, 2022 × Saudi Prime Minister #MohammedBinSalman fell in prostration after #SaudiArabia 🇸🇦 won match against #Argentina 🇦🇷. pic.twitter.com/ipJwoOEPur — 🎙The Milli Chronicle (@millichronicle) November 22, 2022 × Congratulations Saudi Arabia! 👏🏻 “🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia become the first Muslim country to win a game at this World Cup by defeating one of the tournament favourites, Argentina.” Alhamdulillah 😊#FIFAWorldCup pic.twitter.com/z9UUxnfSCS — Syeda Fatima! (@SyedaNaqvi50) November 23, 2022 × Also Read: FIFA World Cup 2022: Offside traps and pure grit - How Saudi Arabia stunned Argentina and the world Who can avail the public holiday on Wednesday? As per Saudi authorities, all employees of the private as well as public sector will be given a public holiday on Wednesday. The government announced that all male and female students in all education stages can also avail this holiday. This is exam season in Saudi Arabia, so exams will have to be rescheduled. Free entries announced in theme parks and entertainment sectors An advisor to the Royal Court and the chairman of Saudi Arabia's General Entertainment Authority, Turki al-Sheikh, made the announcement on Twitter that Tuesday will see the free entrance in the country's top theme parks and entertainment venues. After the final whistle, celebrations erupted in spontaneous dance circles throughout the capital Riyadh. Males and females were seen hanging out together in cafes and restaurants to have fun, a new and rare trend emerging in the Islamic nation under reformist Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Public holiday announced in Saudi Arabia to mark the unexpected FIFA victory over Argentina

Rafael Nadal knows all about resilience in sport and the 22-time Grand Slam tennis champion said Lionel Messi's Argentina can shake off the disappointment of their stunning World Cup defeat by Saudi Arabia and have a deep run in Qatar.

"I'm not one for extremes, neither too much euphoria nor too much catastrophe," Spaniard Nadal, a big soccer fan who supports Real Madrid, said before his exhibition match against Norwegian Casper Ruud in Buenos Aires.

"The world hasn't changed... They simply lost a game and there are two to go. The least they deserve is confidence and respect.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-didnt-expect-to-start-like-this-lionel-messi-on-argentinas-shock-defeat-536521">‘We didn't expect to start like this...’ – Lionel Messi on Argentina’s shock World Cup defeat</a>

"They come from being champions of America, from having one of the best winning streaks in history, so why lose confidence? I still think Argentina is a clear candidate to go far."

Nadal, who won two Grand Slams in an injury-hit 2022, said Saudi Arabia's victory was merely a reflection of just how evenly matched soccer has become.

The 35-year-old also paid tribute to Messi, who played for Real's arch-rivals Barcelona.

"Messi took things away from Real for years but in the end, as a sports lover, you appreciate someone so special," Nadal said. "In La Liga, we've been lucky enough to enjoy him in the best years of his sporting career.

"He has given us special moments in the world of sport, he's one of the top players in the history of football and sport".

Argentina plays Mexico in their second Group C match on Saturday.

Rafael Nadal knows all about resilience in sport and the 22-time Grand Slam tennis champion said Lionel Messi's Argentina can shake off the disappointment of their stunning World Cup defeat by Saudi Arabia and have a deep run in Qatar.

Rafael Nadal knows all about resilience in sport and the 22-time Grand Slam tennis champion said Lionel Messi's Argentina can shake off the disappointment of their stunning World Cup defeat by Saudi Arabia and have a deep run in Qatar. "I'm not one for extremes, neither too much euphoria nor too much catastrophe," Spaniard Nadal, a big soccer fan who supports Real Madrid, said before his exhibition match against Norwegian Casper Ruud in Buenos Aires. "The world hasn't changed... They simply lost a game and there are two to go. The least they deserve is confidence and respect. ALSO READ: ‘We didn't expect to start like this...’ – Lionel Messi on Argentina’s shock World Cup defeat "They come from being champions of America, from having one of the best winning streaks in history, so why lose confidence? I still think Argentina is a clear candidate to go far." Nadal, who won two Grand Slams in an injury-hit 2022, said Saudi Arabia's victory was merely a reflection of just how evenly matched soccer has become. The 35-year-old also paid tribute to Messi, who played for Real's arch-rivals Barcelona. "Messi took things away from Real for years but in the end, as a sports lover, you appreciate someone so special," Nadal said. "In La Liga, we've been lucky enough to enjoy him in the best years of his sporting career. "He has given us special moments in the world of sport, he's one of the top players in the history of football and sport". Argentina plays Mexico in their second Group C match on Saturday.

FIFA World Cup 2022: Tennis legend Rafael Nadal backs Argentina to return stronger after shocking loss

The FIFA World Cup 2022 kicked off on November 20 after a lot of hype. This is the first time that it is being held in the Middle East. While there have been only three days since the commencement of the tournament, it has griped the football fans across the globe. In India, despite the national football teams still being far away from qualifying in the mega event, there are plenty of ardent fans across the nation. Recently, a video of fans, in Kerala, made heads turn as there were people donning Brazil and Argentina's jerseys and at war amid the action in Qatar WC.

Here's a video of the fans being engaged in a fist-fight while donning the jersey of their favourite sides:

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In Kerala, India, fans of Brazil and Argentina are at war - India doesn’t have a world class team yet to play <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FIFAWorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FIFAWorldCup</a> but fans have become already world class. <a href="https://t.co/EnM97l6fTI">pic.twitter.com/EnM97l6fTI</a>
— Ashok Swain (@ashoswai) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashoswai/status/1595019239433330689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 22, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cristiano-ronaldo-to-leave-manchester-united-with-immediate-effect-536561">Cristiano Ronaldo to leave Manchester United with immediate effect</a>

While the video certainly shows how NOT to behave as fans, it also implies that even though India's national teams are still trying to grow further and compete at such big-ticket events, there remains plethora of football fans in India and many follow World Cups rigorously.&nbsp;Talking about Argentina, their fans had a forgettable start as Lionel Messi &amp; Co. lost 1-2 to Saudi Arabia in their tournament opener on Tuesday (November 22). Despite a lead from Messi, the 2014 runners-up surrendered the momentum and an inexperienced Saudi line-up made the most of it to strike twice, courtesy of&nbsp;Saleh Alshehri and Salem Aldawsari, took their side to a famous win.

Brazil, on the other hand, are placed in Group G and will open their campaign versus Serbia on November 25 (Friday). Their group also comprises Cameron and Switzerland. Both Brazil and Argentina are considered the top contenders for the elite title.

The FIFA World Cup 2022 kicked off on November 20 after a lot of hype. This is the first time that it is being held in the Middle East. While there have been only three days since the commencement of the tournament, it has griped the football fans across the globe.

The FIFA World Cup 2022 kicked off on November 20 after a lot of hype. This is the first time that it is being held in the Middle East. While there have been only three days since the commencement of the tournament, it has griped the football fans across the globe. In India, despite the national football teams still being far away from qualifying in the mega event, there are plenty of ardent fans across the nation. Recently, a video of fans, in Kerala, made heads turn as there were people donning Brazil and Argentina's jerseys and at war amid the action in Qatar WC. Here's a video of the fans being engaged in a fist-fight while donning the jersey of their favourite sides: In Kerala, India, fans of Brazil and Argentina are at war - India doesn’t have a world class team yet to play #FIFAWorldCup but fans have become already world class. pic.twitter.com/EnM97l6fTI — Ashok Swain (@ashoswai) November 22, 2022 × Also read: Cristiano Ronaldo to leave Manchester United with immediate effect While the video certainly shows how NOT to behave as fans, it also implies that even though India's national teams are still trying to grow further and compete at such big-ticket events, there remains plethora of football fans in India and many follow World Cups rigorously. Talking about Argentina, their fans had a forgettable start as Lionel Messi & Co. lost 1-2 to Saudi Arabia in their tournament opener on Tuesday (November 22). Despite a lead from Messi, the 2014 runners-up surrendered the momentum and an inexperienced Saudi line-up made the most of it to strike twice, courtesy of Saleh Alshehri and Salem Aldawsari, took their side to a famous win. Brazil, on the other hand, are placed in Group G and will open their campaign versus Serbia on November 25 (Friday). Their group also comprises Cameron and Switzerland. Both Brazil and Argentina are considered the top contenders for the elite title.

WATCH: Chaos in Kerala as fans donning Brazil, Argentina jerseys at war amid FIFA World Cup 2022

For the second time in two days, we saw&nbsp;a massive upset&nbsp;in the FIFA World Cup 2022 as&nbsp;on Wednesday the four-time world champions Germany suffered a shock defeat (1-2) at the hands of Japan in their first match in Group E. On Tuesday, it was Argentina that got floored by Saudi Arabia 2-1.

Japan started their FIFA World Cup 2022 campaign on the brightest note beating yet another trophy favourites Germany at the Khalifa International stadium in Qatar.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/germany-players-cover-mouth-in-protest-over-one-love-armbands-ban-by-fifa-536843">Germany players cover mouth in protest over ‘One love armbands' ban by FIFA</a>

Germany began well by&nbsp;keeping possession and ball control. They even scored the first goal of the match in the 33rd minute through Ilkay Gundogan’s penalty. However, things changed for good for Japan in the second half. Two late goals from Ritsu Doan and Takuma Asano in the 75th and 83rd minute, respectively, gave Japan a commanding 2-1 lead against Germany.

The Germans did come close to&nbsp;scoring on a few occasions later but failed. Come to the seven-minute injury time, Germany even opted for an obvious all-out attack that saw them getting&nbsp;two chances in the end but sadly all their efforts seemed to go in vain.&nbsp;A sharp Japanese defence ensured the scoreline doesn't change, and in the end, they won the match by 2-1.&nbsp;

Germany will now be facing heavyweights Spain in their next must-win encounter to avoid a repeat of the 2018 World Cup.

For the second time in two days, we saw a massive upset in the FIFA World Cup 2022 as on Wednesday the four-time world champions Germany suffered a shock defeat (1-2) at the hands of Japan in their first match in Group E.

For the second time in two days, we saw a massive upset in the FIFA World Cup 2022 as on Wednesday the four-time world champions Germany suffered a shock defeat (1-2) at the hands of Japan in their first match in Group E. On Tuesday, it was Argentina that got floored by Saudi Arabia 2-1. Japan started their FIFA World Cup 2022 campaign on the brightest note beating yet another trophy favourites Germany at the Khalifa International stadium in Qatar. ALSO READ: Germany players cover mouth in protest over ‘One love armbands' ban by FIFA Germany began well by keeping possession and ball control. They even scored the first goal of the match in the 33rd minute through Ilkay Gundogan’s penalty. However, things changed for good for Japan in the second half. Two late goals from Ritsu Doan and Takuma Asano in the 75th and 83rd minute, respectively, gave Japan a commanding 2-1 lead against Germany. The Germans did come close to scoring on a few occasions later but failed. Come to the seven-minute injury time, Germany even opted for an obvious all-out attack that saw them getting two chances in the end but sadly all their efforts seemed to go in vain. A sharp Japanese defence ensured the scoreline doesn't change, and in the end, they won the match by 2-1. Germany will now be facing heavyweights Spain in their next must-win encounter to avoid a repeat of the 2018 World Cup.

FIFA World Cup 2022: Another upset in Qatar as Japan shock Germany 2-1

The FIFA World Cup 2022 edition got underway in Qatar on November 20 (Sunday). While only a handful of games have gone by, the hype around the World Cup has caught everyone's attention. Even in India, while the national sides are far from qualifying for the mega event, the craze for football knows no boundaries. In Kochi, as many as 17 fans crossed boundaries to make their experience of watching the FIFA World Cup a memorable affair by buying a house, worth INR 2.3 million (INR 23 lakhs), to be able to watch the proceedings together.&nbsp;

Love for soccer has no boundaries!

PK Harris, one of the buyers of the house told ANI, “Because no match is enjoyable without loud cheering and fun. Most of the open spaces we used to screen were either sold or built on." Harris, who is a PWD contractor, revealed, "That’s when we came to know about the sale and pooled in money to buy the house."

It is to be noted that the group of ardent football fans are mostly supporting Argentina, Brazil, Portugal, and France. In this regard, Harris said, "The idea of investing in the property is to celebrate every world cup season as we did for the past 15 or more years, and for the coming generation.&nbsp;A 50-inch television and internet facility has been set up here. Everyone in the area is welcome to watch the match."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-chaos-in-kerala-as-fans-donning-brazil-argentina-jerseys-at-war-amid-fifa-world-cup-2022-536642">WATCH: Chaos in Kerala as fans donning Brazil, Argentina jerseys at war amid FIFA World Cup 2022</a>

On Tuesday (November 22), the FIFA WC saw Lionel Messi-led Argentina open their campaign with a shocking 2-1 defeat at the hands of Saudi Arabia. Sharing what the atmosphere was like during the game, Harris stated, "The fun of teasing while the other person’s team losing and also cheering for our favourite team is the best part of the season,” said Harris. “It’s all friendly banter with each other." Two among the 17 friends are working abroad. Revealing their plans going ahead, Harris pointed out, "After the world cup season, we plan to construct a three-storey building. The first and second floors will be rented out to the needy to either set up a shop or anything, and the top floor will be dedicated space for screening the world cup in the coming years and setting up a sports club-like area for the coming generation."

The FIFA WC, which started with a lot of negative hype, is now set to come up with many such interesting stories of fans, which just depict the unreal craze and affect&nbsp;the beautiful game has across the globe.&nbsp;

The FIFA World Cup 2022 edition got underway in Qatar on November 20 (Sunday). While only a handful of games have gone by, the hype around the World Cup has caught everyone's attention.

The FIFA World Cup 2022 edition got underway in Qatar on November 20 (Sunday). While only a handful of games have gone by, the hype around the World Cup has caught everyone's attention. Even in India, while the national sides are far from qualifying for the mega event, the craze for football knows no boundaries. In Kochi, as many as 17 fans crossed boundaries to make their experience of watching the FIFA World Cup a memorable affair by buying a house, worth INR 2.3 million (INR 23 lakhs), to be able to watch the proceedings together. Love for soccer has no boundaries! PK Harris, one of the buyers of the house told ANI, “Because no match is enjoyable without loud cheering and fun. Most of the open spaces we used to screen were either sold or built on." Harris, who is a PWD contractor, revealed, "That’s when we came to know about the sale and pooled in money to buy the house." It is to be noted that the group of ardent football fans are mostly supporting Argentina, Brazil, Portugal, and France. In this regard, Harris said, "The idea of investing in the property is to celebrate every world cup season as we did for the past 15 or more years, and for the coming generation. A 50-inch television and internet facility has been set up here. Everyone in the area is welcome to watch the match." Also read: WATCH: Chaos in Kerala as fans donning Brazil, Argentina jerseys at war amid FIFA World Cup 2022 On Tuesday (November 22), the FIFA WC saw Lionel Messi-led Argentina open their campaign with a shocking 2-1 defeat at the hands of Saudi Arabia. Sharing what the atmosphere was like during the game, Harris stated, "The fun of teasing while the other person’s team losing and also cheering for our favourite team is the best part of the season,” said Harris. “It’s all friendly banter with each other." Two among the 17 friends are working abroad. Revealing their plans going ahead, Harris pointed out, "After the world cup season, we plan to construct a three-storey building. The first and second floors will be rented out to the needy to either set up a shop or anything, and the top floor will be dedicated space for screening the world cup in the coming years and setting up a sports club-like area for the coming generation." The FIFA WC, which started with a lot of negative hype, is now set to come up with many such interesting stories of fans, which just depict the unreal craze and affect the beautiful game has across the globe.

Would you buy a house to watch FIFA World Cup? 17 fans from Kerala did just that!

Qatar has reached out to India through diplomatic channels to make it clear that the organisers of the FIFA World Cup 2022 did not extend any official invitation to controversial religious personality Zakir Naik to attend the opening ceremony of the tournament, according to Hindustan Times. &nbsp;

In the past few days, there have been several media reports claiming that Naik was travelling to Qatar for the event and he will be delivering a speech on the occasion. However, the report claimed that the Qatari government has rubbished all such claims and called it “deliberate disinformation being spread by third countries to create a rift in India-Qatar bilateral relations”.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-parliament-declares-russia-state-sponsor-of-terrorism-536786">European Union parliament declares Russia 'state sponsor of terrorism'</a>

Naik is wanted by Indian authorities for alleged money laundering and inciting extremism from hate speeches. According to media reports, he did travel to Qatar from Malaysia, but he was not present at the opening ceremony and no further information was gained regarding his whereabouts.

India is currently working towards getting a Red Corner Notice against Naik from the Interpol and they have also sent an extradition request to Malaysia for his alleged role in the 2020 Delhi riots.

Hindustan Times also reported that the communication from Qatar came after the Indian government threatened to cancel the visit of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar to the World Cup opening ceremony. Dhankar did travel to the event and attended the ceremony from the VVIP box.

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

Qatar has reached out to India through diplomatic channels to make it clear that the organisers of the FIFA World Cup 2022 did not extend any official invitation to controversial religious personality Zakir Naik to attend the opening ceremony of the tournament, according to Hindustan Times.

Qatar has reached out to India through diplomatic channels to make it clear that the organisers of the FIFA World Cup 2022 did not extend any official invitation to controversial religious personality Zakir Naik to attend the opening ceremony of the tournament, according to Hindustan Times. In the past few days, there have been several media reports claiming that Naik was travelling to Qatar for the event and he will be delivering a speech on the occasion. However, the report claimed that the Qatari government has rubbished all such claims and called it “deliberate disinformation being spread by third countries to create a rift in India-Qatar bilateral relations”. Also read | European Union parliament declares Russia 'state sponsor of terrorism' Naik is wanted by Indian authorities for alleged money laundering and inciting extremism from hate speeches. According to media reports, he did travel to Qatar from Malaysia, but he was not present at the opening ceremony and no further information was gained regarding his whereabouts. India is currently working towards getting a Red Corner Notice against Naik from the Interpol and they have also sent an extradition request to Malaysia for his alleged role in the 2020 Delhi riots. Hindustan Times also reported that the communication from Qatar came after the Indian government threatened to cancel the visit of Vice President Jagdeep Dhankar to the World Cup opening ceremony. Dhankar did travel to the event and attended the ceremony from the VVIP box.

Zakir Naik was not invited to FIFA World Cup 2022 opening ceremony, Qatar tells India

The German players were seen covering their mouths with their hands during the team photo ahead of their FIFA World Cup 2022 opener against Japan in protest over the ban of ‘One love armbands’ by FIFA. As reported earlier, FIFA had threatened and even blackmailed seven European teams (England, Wales, Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, and Denmark) with sanctions if they wore the armband symbolising diversity and tolerance.

On Tuesday, the DFB's media director Steffen Simon told German radio Deutschlandfunk that England, who had been the first team to be expected to wear it on Monday in their game against Iran, had been threatened with multiple sporting sanctions.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/blackmailed-threatened-by-fifa-to-not-don-armbands-in-world-cup-says-german-fa-536526">Blackmailed, threatened by FIFA to not don armbands in World Cup, says German FA</a>

"The tournament director went to the English team and talked about multiple rule violations and threatened with massive sporting sanctions without specifying what these would be," he said.

Simon further went on to add, "We lost the armband and it is very painful but we are the same people as before with the same values. We are not impostors who claim they have values and then betray them. We were in an extreme situation, in an extreme blackmail and we thought we had to take that decision without wanting to do so."

On Wednesday, Germany took on Japan in their first match of the group E at the Khalifa International Stadium. By the time the first half ended, the four-time World Cup winners were leading 1-0, courtesy of a penalty from Ilkay Gundogan in the 33rd minute.

Other than Japan, Spain, and Costa Rica are the remaining two teams in Group E.

The German players were seen covering their mouths with their hands during the team photo ahead of their FIFA World Cup 2022 opener against Japan in protest over the ban of ‘One love armbands’ by FIFA.

The German players were seen covering their mouths with their hands during the team photo ahead of their FIFA World Cup 2022 opener against Japan in protest over the ban of ‘One love armbands’ by FIFA. As reported earlier, FIFA had threatened and even blackmailed seven European teams (England, Wales, Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, and Denmark) with sanctions if they wore the armband symbolising diversity and tolerance. On Tuesday, the DFB's media director Steffen Simon told German radio Deutschlandfunk that England, who had been the first team to be expected to wear it on Monday in their game against Iran, had been threatened with multiple sporting sanctions. ALSO READ: Blackmailed, threatened by FIFA to not don armbands in World Cup, says German FA "The tournament director went to the English team and talked about multiple rule violations and threatened with massive sporting sanctions without specifying what these would be," he said. Simon further went on to add, "We lost the armband and it is very painful but we are the same people as before with the same values. We are not impostors who claim they have values and then betray them. We were in an extreme situation, in an extreme blackmail and we thought we had to take that decision without wanting to do so." On Wednesday, Germany took on Japan in their first match of the group E at the Khalifa International Stadium. By the time the first half ended, the four-time World Cup winners were leading 1-0, courtesy of a penalty from Ilkay Gundogan in the 33rd minute. Other than Japan, Spain, and Costa Rica are the remaining two teams in Group E.

Germany players cover mouth in protest over ‘One love armbands' ban by FIFA

On Thursday (November 24), Belgium and Croatia will square off in what will be their respective tournament openers in the FIFA World Cup 2022 edition, in Qatar. Both are placed in Group F also comprising Morroco and last edition's runners-up Croatia. Benig in a tough group, both the sides will hope for an impressive start but Belgium, who bowed out with a loss in the semi-finals in the 2018 edition, will start as favourites.&nbsp;

Belgium's star-studded line-up, comprising&nbsp;Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku, Real Madrid winger Eden Hazard, Manchester City's Kevin De Bruyne and Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, will be the players to watch out for. The experienced line-up will test the Canadians, who have qualified for the FIFA WC for only the second time since 1986.&nbsp;

Ahead of the match, Canada's captain Atiba Hutchinson said on Tuesday (November 22), "I’ve already seen it sparking a lot of interest in younger players, 7, 8-year olds, some in my family, teammates, children. Just the interest that it’s brought to our country is really special to see. I’ve been with the national team a very long time and I never seen it get to this level.” Hutchinson added, "We want to put Canada on the map."

Belgium have lost to the Netherlands and Egypt recently, hence, they will not like to take any team lightly at such an initial stage of the tournament. However, they have never lost three in a row since 2014. Will they maintain that record?&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-broadcast-tv-and-ott-live-streaming-when-and-where-to-watch-spain-vs-costa-rica-536772">FIFA World Cup 2022 Broadcast TV and OTT-Live Streaming: When and where to watch Spain vs Costa Rica?</a>

Here's everything to know about the Belgium vs Canada&nbsp;FIFA World Cup 2022 clash:

<h2>When is the Belgium vs Canada match of the FIFA World Cup 2022?</h2>

The Belgium vs Canada&nbsp;FIFA World Cup 2022 face-off, from Group F, will be held in the Ahmed Bin Ali Stadium in Al Rayyan, Qatar.

<h2>What time will the match be telecast in India?</h2>

The match&nbsp;will get start at 12:30 AM IST on Thursday&nbsp;(November 24).

<h2>Where can we watch the match live:&nbsp;Broadcast TV and OTT Channel in India?</h2>

In India, the football fans can catch the&nbsp;FIFA World Cup fixtures on TV on&nbsp;Sports18&nbsp;and Sports18 HD channels. The live stream of all games will be available on the&nbsp;Jio Cinema app&nbsp;or website.

On Thursday (November 24), Belgium and Croatia will square off in what will be their respective tournament openers in the FIFA World Cup 2022 edition, in Qatar. Both are placed in Group F also comprising Morroco and last edition's runners-up Croatia.

On Thursday (November 24), Belgium and Croatia will square off in what will be their respective tournament openers in the FIFA World Cup 2022 edition, in Qatar. Both are placed in Group F also comprising Morroco and last edition's runners-up Croatia. Benig in a tough group, both the sides will hope for an impressive start but Belgium, who bowed out with a loss in the semi-finals in the 2018 edition, will start as favourites. Belgium's star-studded line-up, comprising Inter Milan striker Romelu Lukaku, Real Madrid winger Eden Hazard, Manchester City's Kevin De Bruyne and Real Madrid goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois, will be the players to watch out for. The experienced line-up will test the Canadians, who have qualified for the FIFA WC for only the second time since 1986. Ahead of the match, Canada's captain Atiba Hutchinson said on Tuesday (November 22), "I’ve already seen it sparking a lot of interest in younger players, 7, 8-year olds, some in my family, teammates, children. Just the interest that it’s brought to our country is really special to see. I’ve been with the national team a very long time and I never seen it get to this level.” Hutchinson added, "We want to put Canada on the map." Belgium have lost to the Netherlands and Egypt recently, hence, they will not like to take any team lightly at such an initial stage of the tournament. However, they have never lost three in a row since 2014. Will they maintain that record? Also read: FIFA World Cup 2022 Broadcast TV and OTT-Live Streaming: When and where to watch Spain vs Costa Rica? Here's everything to know about the Belgium vs Canada FIFA World Cup 2022 clash: When is the Belgium vs Canada match of the FIFA World Cup 2022? The Belgium vs Canada FIFA World Cup 2022 face-off, from Group F, will be held in the Ahmed Bin Ali Stadium in Al Rayyan, Qatar. What time will the match be telecast in India? The match will get start at 12:30 AM IST on Thursday (November 24). Where can we watch the match live: Broadcast TV and OTT Channel in India? In India, the football fans can catch the FIFA World Cup fixtures on TV on Sports18 and Sports18 HD channels. The live stream of all games will be available on the Jio Cinema app or website.

FIFA World Cup 2022 Broadcast TV and OTT-Live Streaming: When and where to watch Belgium vs Canada?

FIFA World Cup 2022 is gaining steam across the world. The most spectacular performance so far was staged by Saudi Arabia on day 3 of the mega sports event, where it delivered a stunning 2-1 defeat to World Cup favourites Argentina. Now, the spotlight is shifted to the fourth day of FIFA World Cup 2022, where the first match of the day will be played between Croatia and Morocco. Luka Modric, the playmaker for Croatia, has cautioned his teammates not to anticipate a repetition of their World Cup performance of 2018 when the nation of just over four million punched above their weight to reach the finals.

<h2>When will the FIFA World Cup 2022 matches be played on Day 4 (GMT+1 nations)?</h2>

The first match will be played between Morocco and Croatia at the Al Bayt Stadium at 11:00 GMT+1

The second match will be played between Germany and Japan at the Khalifa International stadium at 14:00 GMT+1

The Third match will be played between Spain and Costa Rica at Al Thumama Stadium at 17:00 GMT+1

The fourth and last match of the day will be played between Canada and Belgium at Ahmed bin Ali Stadium at 20:00 GMT+1

Also Read:<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-broadcast-tv-and-ott-live-streaming-channel-in-gulf-nations-gcc-when-and-where-to-watch-536030">&nbsp;FIFA World Cup 2022 Broadcast TV and OTT-Live Streaming Channel in Gulf nations (GCC): When and where to watch</a>

<h2>How to watch the matches online in European countries (GMT+1 nations)</h2>

In Europe, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) reserves all the rights to broadcast live matches in European countries.

In Poland, the Livestream will be available on TVP

In Portugal, the matches can be watched on RTP

In France, the Livestream is available on Yle and beIN Sports

In Germany, the Livestream is available on ARD, ZDF and Deutesch Telecom

In Spain, one can access the Livestream on Mediapro and RTVE

In Serbia, people can watch the matches on RTS

In Italy, people can watch FIFA world cup 2022 on Television&nbsp;at RAI and live stream at RAIPlay

In Denmark, people can watch FIFA world cup 2022 on Television&nbsp;at DR Network and live stream at TV2 Play

In Hungary, people can watch FIFA world cup 2022 on Television&nbsp;at M4 Sport channel

If your country is missing, you can check this page for information&nbsp;-

&nbsp;<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2022_FIFA_World_Cup_broadcasting_rights">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2022_FIFA_World_Cup_broadcasting_rights&nbsp;</a>

Check <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-updates-fifa-world-cup-2022-day-4-morocco-and-croatia-all-set-to-clash-today-536700">Live Updates of FIFA World Cup 2022 Day 4 here</a>

FIFA World Cup 2022 is gaining steam across the world. The most spectacular performance so far was staged by Saudi Arabia on day 3 of the mega sports event, where it delivered a stunning 2-1 defeat to World Cup favourites Argentina.

FIFA World Cup 2022 is gaining steam across the world. The most spectacular performance so far was staged by Saudi Arabia on day 3 of the mega sports event, where it delivered a stunning 2-1 defeat to World Cup favourites Argentina. Now, the spotlight is shifted to the fourth day of FIFA World Cup 2022, where the first match of the day will be played between Croatia and Morocco. Luka Modric, the playmaker for Croatia, has cautioned his teammates not to anticipate a repetition of their World Cup performance of 2018 when the nation of just over four million punched above their weight to reach the finals. When will the FIFA World Cup 2022 matches be played on Day 4 (GMT+1 nations)? The first match will be played between Morocco and Croatia at the Al Bayt Stadium at 11:00 GMT+1 The second match will be played between Germany and Japan at the Khalifa International stadium at 14:00 GMT+1 The Third match will be played between Spain and Costa Rica at Al Thumama Stadium at 17:00 GMT+1 The fourth and last match of the day will be played between Canada and Belgium at Ahmed bin Ali Stadium at 20:00 GMT+1 Also Read: FIFA World Cup 2022 Broadcast TV and OTT-Live Streaming Channel in Gulf nations (GCC): When and where to watch How to watch the matches online in European countries (GMT+1 nations) In Europe, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) reserves all the rights to broadcast live matches in European countries. In Poland, the Livestream will be available on TVP In Portugal, the matches can be watched on RTP In France, the Livestream is available on Yle and beIN Sports In Germany, the Livestream is available on ARD, ZDF and Deutesch Telecom In Spain, one can access the Livestream on Mediapro and RTVE In Serbia, people can watch the matches on RTS In Italy, people can watch FIFA world cup 2022 on Television at RAI and live stream at RAIPlay In Denmark, people can watch FIFA world cup 2022 on Television at DR Network and live stream at TV2 Play In Hungary, people can watch FIFA world cup 2022 on Television at M4 Sport channel If your country is missing, you can check this page for information - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2022_FIFA_World_Cup_broadcasting_rights Check Live Updates of FIFA World Cup 2022 Day 4 here

FIFA World Cup 2022 Broadcast TV and OTT-Live Streaming Channel in Europe: When and where to watch

In the upcoming weeks, the stunning football stars are sure to grab the headlines. But GUESS WHAT? Their wives and girlfriends will also turn heads in addition to the football players at the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar. The spouses and girlfriends of professional athletes are sometimes referred to as WAGs. The phrase was initially used to refer to England's WAGs during the 2006 World Cup in Germany, featuring Victoria Beckham, David Beckham's wife, and British music sensation Cheryl, who was then married to Ashley Cole. Now the term is widely used.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Georgina Rodriguez, 28

<img alt="Rodriguez" data-align="left" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="fd9bbf29-8658-461f-b605-01b31ace5863" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Ronaldo.png" />

The model, who was born in Argentina, has 30 million Instagram followers. Her modelling career had been quite before she met Cristiano Ronaldo, but it quickly gained enormous fame once they started dating. On November 3, 2019, in Seville, Spain, Georgina Rodriguez and Cristiano Ronaldo attend the MTV EMAs 2019 at the FIBES Conference and Exhibition Centre. Since 2016, the pair has been living together. All eyes will be on the model as she supports her boyfriend, 37-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the most well-known players in the World Cup. Undoubtedly one of the finest players in the game's history is from Portugal. Two of Ronaldo's six children are raised by Rodriguez, although one of their newborn twins died in delivery in April 2022, as per media reports.

Sasha Attwood, 25

<img alt="Sasha" data-align="left" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="bc68d2ac-3d66-4006-8b82-e450ba53c78a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Sashaa.png" />

Ten years ago, when they were 15 and 16, Jack Grealish and Sasha started dating.&nbsp;&nbsp;Although it is thought that they had a "on-off" relationship during their 20s, the couple has remained together all that time. Along with the families of the other footballers, the childhood girlfriend of Manchester City and England player Jack Grealish is lodging on the opulent MSC World Europa. The model, whose career has taken off, inked a lucrative contract with cosmetics giant L'Oreal in 2022. While attending St. Peter's Roman Catholic Secondary School in Solihull together, Sasha and Jack had their first encounter.

Antonela Roccuzzo, 34

<img alt="Antonela" data-align="left" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="34a01c2e-94df-47f8-91c4-9ae117bc14b4" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Antolena.png" />

Through her cousin Lucas Scaglia, a longtime family acquaintance, Antonela Roccuzzo was introduced to her husband Lionel Messi. According to Lucas' relative, the pair had known each other since they were little. Roccuzzo, who has been married to Argentina's and Paris Saint-Germain star Lionel Messi, 35, since 2017, received her dental training before switching to modelling. The couple started dating in 2008 and had been together since since they first met in their hometown of Rosario, Sante Fe, Argentina, more than 20 years ago. Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro are their sons.

 
Annekee Molenaar, 24

<img alt="Molenaar" data-align="left" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="8761946e-3f1d-427e-8117-2809a0181a9e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Netherlands.png" />

When Matthijs de Ligt, a 23-year-old soccer player, was acquired by the Bayern Munich squad, the model relocated to Germany. They met in 2018, and they are both from the Netherlands. The challenges Molenaar experiences with her body image have been well-documented. "I am not [happy] all the time and that's OK. I am human who is still learning not to set the bar too high. This is why I am now sharing this message in order to create a little bit more connection between me and you," she wrote on Instagram.

 
Rafaella Szabo, 34

<img alt="Szabo" data-align="left" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="7087ceb7-e8ee-4b05-a663-88260956b77a" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Curly_0.png" />

Szabo is the wife of midfielder Axel Witsel, who became immensely popular for his time with Zenit and the Belgian national team. Szabo, a photographer by profession, wed the 33-year-old player for Atlético Madrid and the Belgian national team in 2015. They have three kids together.

 
&nbsp;

In the upcoming weeks, the stunning football stars are sure to grab the headlines. But GUESS WHAT? Their wives and girlfriends will also turn heads in addition to the football players at the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar.

In the upcoming weeks, the stunning football stars are sure to grab the headlines. But GUESS WHAT? Their wives and girlfriends will also turn heads in addition to the football players at the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar. The spouses and girlfriends of professional athletes are sometimes referred to as WAGs. The phrase was initially used to refer to England's WAGs during the 2006 World Cup in Germany, featuring Victoria Beckham, David Beckham's wife, and British music sensation Cheryl, who was then married to Ashley Cole. Now the term is widely used. Georgina Rodriguez, 28 The model, who was born in Argentina, has 30 million Instagram followers. Her modelling career had been quite before she met Cristiano Ronaldo, but it quickly gained enormous fame once they started dating. On November 3, 2019, in Seville, Spain, Georgina Rodriguez and Cristiano Ronaldo attend the MTV EMAs 2019 at the FIBES Conference and Exhibition Centre. Since 2016, the pair has been living together. All eyes will be on the model as she supports her boyfriend, 37-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo, one of the most well-known players in the World Cup. Undoubtedly one of the finest players in the game's history is from Portugal. Two of Ronaldo's six children are raised by Rodriguez, although one of their newborn twins died in delivery in April 2022, as per media reports. Sasha Attwood, 25 Ten years ago, when they were 15 and 16, Jack Grealish and Sasha started dating. Although it is thought that they had a "on-off" relationship during their 20s, the couple has remained together all that time. Along with the families of the other footballers, the childhood girlfriend of Manchester City and England player Jack Grealish is lodging on the opulent MSC World Europa. The model, whose career has taken off, inked a lucrative contract with cosmetics giant L'Oreal in 2022. While attending St. Peter's Roman Catholic Secondary School in Solihull together, Sasha and Jack had their first encounter. Antonela Roccuzzo, 34 Through her cousin Lucas Scaglia, a longtime family acquaintance, Antonela Roccuzzo was introduced to her husband Lionel Messi. According to Lucas' relative, the pair had known each other since they were little. Roccuzzo, who has been married to Argentina's and Paris Saint-Germain star Lionel Messi, 35, since 2017, received her dental training before switching to modelling. The couple started dating in 2008 and had been together since since they first met in their hometown of Rosario, Sante Fe, Argentina, more than 20 years ago. Thiago, Mateo, and Ciro are their sons. Annekee Molenaar, 24 When Matthijs de Ligt, a 23-year-old soccer player, was acquired by the Bayern Munich squad, the model relocated to Germany. They met in 2018, and they are both from the Netherlands. The challenges Molenaar experiences with her body image have been well-documented. "I am not [happy] all the time and that's OK. I am human who is still learning not to set the bar too high. This is why I am now sharing this message in order to create a little bit more connection between me and you," she wrote on Instagram. Rafaella Szabo, 34 Szabo is the wife of midfielder Axel Witsel, who became immensely popular for his time with Zenit and the Belgian national team. Szabo, a photographer by profession, wed the 33-year-old player for Atlético Madrid and the Belgian national team in 2015. They have three kids together.

Footballers' GORGEOUS Wives and Girlfriends who will be cheering at Qatar FIFA World Cup 2022

The FIFA World Cup 2022 edition is underway and producing enthralling action for football fans across the globe. On Tuesday (November 22), i.e. the third day of the competition, Lionel Messi-led Argentina lost to Saudi Arabia, 1-2, in their opening clash whereas defending champions France went past Australia 4-1 in their first game in the ongoing edition. The action continues on Wednesday (November 23) with plenty of games in store. In the first game of the day, Morocco will face last edition's runners-up Croatia.

For Croatia to go all the way, they will need a strong start. While they did manage a second-spot finish in 2018 edition, Croatia isn't being considered as one of the top contenders. This might just work in their favour, just like it did in 2018 in Russia. They had a smooth qualification to the mega event and even topped the Nations League group, ahead of France, and, hence, will start as favourites.&nbsp;

“Definitely, what we’ve been through in 2018 in Russia is unforgettable and indelible in my mind. Others can continue speaking about it but we need to put it aside and focus on what’s ahead,” Modric told a news conference. “Many players at the 2018 World Cup in Russia are not here, we have new players, new quality young players with fresh blood and energy. This is a new tournament and we have to look at it that way," he added.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-day-3-schedule-matches-venues-and-live-streaming-ott-channel-broadcast-details-536499">FIFA World Cup 2022, Day 3 Schedule – Matches, venues and live streaming-OTT, channel broadcast details!</a>

<h2>When is the Morocco vs Croatia match of the FIFA World Cup 2022?</h2>

The Morocco vs Croatia&nbsp;FIFA World Cup 2022 fixture, from Group F, will be held at the&nbsp;Al Bayt Stadium, Qatar.

<h2>What time will the match be telecast in India?</h2>

The clash will kickoff at 15:30 PM IST on&nbsp;Wednesday&nbsp;(November 23).

<h2>Where can we watch the match live:&nbsp;Broadcast TV and OTT Channel in India?</h2>

The Indian fans can enjoy the&nbsp;FIFA World Cup proceedings on TV on&nbsp;Sports18&nbsp;and Sports18 HD channels. In addition, the live streaming will on the&nbsp;Jio Cinema app&nbsp;or website.

The FIFA World Cup 2022 edition is underway and producing enthralling action for football fans across the globe. On Tuesday (November 22), i.e. the third day of the competition, Lionel Messi-led Argentina lost to Saudi Arabia, 1-2, in their opening clash whereas defending champions France went past Australia 4-1 in their first game in the ongoing edition.

The FIFA World Cup 2022 edition is underway and producing enthralling action for football fans across the globe. On Tuesday (November 22), i.e. the third day of the competition, Lionel Messi-led Argentina lost to Saudi Arabia, 1-2, in their opening clash whereas defending champions France went past Australia 4-1 in their first game in the ongoing edition. The action continues on Wednesday (November 23) with plenty of games in store. In the first game of the day, Morocco will face last edition's runners-up Croatia. For Croatia to go all the way, they will need a strong start. While they did manage a second-spot finish in 2018 edition, Croatia isn't being considered as one of the top contenders. This might just work in their favour, just like it did in 2018 in Russia. They had a smooth qualification to the mega event and even topped the Nations League group, ahead of France, and, hence, will start as favourites. “Definitely, what we’ve been through in 2018 in Russia is unforgettable and indelible in my mind. Others can continue speaking about it but we need to put it aside and focus on what’s ahead,” Modric told a news conference. “Many players at the 2018 World Cup in Russia are not here, we have new players, new quality young players with fresh blood and energy. This is a new tournament and we have to look at it that way," he added. Also read: FIFA World Cup 2022, Day 3 Schedule – Matches, venues and live streaming-OTT, channel broadcast details! When is the Morocco vs Croatia match of the FIFA World Cup 2022? The Morocco vs Croatia FIFA World Cup 2022 fixture, from Group F, will be held at the Al Bayt Stadium, Qatar. What time will the match be telecast in India? The clash will kickoff at 15:30 PM IST on Wednesday (November 23). Where can we watch the match live: Broadcast TV and OTT Channel in India? The Indian fans can enjoy the FIFA World Cup proceedings on TV on Sports18 and Sports18 HD channels. In addition, the live streaming will on the Jio Cinema app or website.

FIFA World Cup 2022, Morocco vs Croatia, Broadcast TV and OTT-Live Streaming Day 4: When and where to watch

Olivier Giroud became France's joint all-time top scorer when his double helped the holders start the defence of their World Cup title in style with a 4-1 comeback Group D win against Australia on Tuesday.

Giroud found the net before and after the break to take his tally to 51 goals, matching Thierry Henry's mark, either side of a Kylian Mbappe goal after Adrien Rabiot had levelled following Craig Goodwin's shock early opener.

Les Bleus are the first defending champions to win their opening match since Brazil in 2006, which has already put them in good position to advance from the group phase, something Italy in 2010, Spain in 2014 and Germany in 2018 failed to do.

France, who lost defender Lucas Hernandez to a knee injury, have three points and lead Tunisia and Denmark by two after they played out a 0-0 draw on Tuesday.

Didier Deschamps's France side, who started the tournament on the back of the disappointment of striker Karim Benzema being ruled out injured last Saturday, next face Denmark on Saturday.

It was not quite the start France were expecting at the Al Janoub stadium.

Goodwin smacked the ball into the roof of the net from Mathew Leckie's cross from the right, leaving Lucas Hernandez holding his right knee after being beaten to the ball after nine minutes.

Hernandez's brother Theo came on as a substitute and France continued to struggle to create space, with only Mbappe threatening on his left flank.

Exhilarating Feel

Australia were much more direct, making the most of Les Bleus's non-existent midfield.

It was, however, Rabiot who levelled in the 27th, leaving his marker behind to head home from Hernandez's cross.

With Mbappe moving more centrally, the Australia defence had one more problem to deal with and that was clear when the Paris St Germain forward's back heel inside the area was collected by Rabiot, who slid the ball across for Giroud to tap in.

They played more freely from then on, with Antoine Griezmann's low shot going just wide and Mbappe skying his attempt over the bar as he raced to meet Griezmann's cross from the right.

Australia kept France on their toes and came close shortly before halftime when Jackson Irvine's header grazed Hugo Lloris's right-hand post after a rebound.

Mbappe caused more chaos early in the second half but could not quite find the breakthrough, until he silenced the Australian fans, who in the first half were shouting 'Who are you?' at him, with a glancing header in the 68th minute.

Three minutes later, Giroud headed home from Mbappe's cross before falling on his back in apparent disbelief and being surrounded by his team mates in a goal celebration that lasted longer than usual, giving an exhilarating feel to France's win.

It took Giroud, who owed his place in the starting lineup to Benzema's absence, 115 international appearances to score his 51 goals, while Henry needed 123 from 1997-2010.

There were more chances for France through Hernandez and Ibrahima Konate but the result was satisfying enough, bearing in mind that in 2002 the defence of their title started with a 1-0 loss to Senegal and was followed by a first-round exit.

Olivier Giroud became France's joint all-time top scorer when his double helped the holders start the defence of their World Cup title in style with a 4-1 comeback Group D win against Australia on Tuesday.

Olivier Giroud became France's joint all-time top scorer when his double helped the holders start the defence of their World Cup title in style with a 4-1 comeback Group D win against Australia on Tuesday. Giroud found the net before and after the break to take his tally to 51 goals, matching Thierry Henry's mark, either side of a Kylian Mbappe goal after Adrien Rabiot had levelled following Craig Goodwin's shock early opener. Les Bleus are the first defending champions to win their opening match since Brazil in 2006, which has already put them in good position to advance from the group phase, something Italy in 2010, Spain in 2014 and Germany in 2018 failed to do. France, who lost defender Lucas Hernandez to a knee injury, have three points and lead Tunisia and Denmark by two after they played out a 0-0 draw on Tuesday. Didier Deschamps's France side, who started the tournament on the back of the disappointment of striker Karim Benzema being ruled out injured last Saturday, next face Denmark on Saturday. It was not quite the start France were expecting at the Al Janoub stadium. Goodwin smacked the ball into the roof of the net from Mathew Leckie's cross from the right, leaving Lucas Hernandez holding his right knee after being beaten to the ball after nine minutes. Hernandez's brother Theo came on as a substitute and France continued to struggle to create space, with only Mbappe threatening on his left flank. Exhilarating Feel Australia were much more direct, making the most of Les Bleus's non-existent midfield. It was, however, Rabiot who levelled in the 27th, leaving his marker behind to head home from Hernandez's cross. With Mbappe moving more centrally, the Australia defence had one more problem to deal with and that was clear when the Paris St Germain forward's back heel inside the area was collected by Rabiot, who slid the ball across for Giroud to tap in. They played more freely from then on, with Antoine Griezmann's low shot going just wide and Mbappe skying his attempt over the bar as he raced to meet Griezmann's cross from the right. Australia kept France on their toes and came close shortly before halftime when Jackson Irvine's header grazed Hugo Lloris's right-hand post after a rebound. Mbappe caused more chaos early in the second half but could not quite find the breakthrough, until he silenced the Australian fans, who in the first half were shouting 'Who are you?' at him, with a glancing header in the 68th minute. Three minutes later, Giroud headed home from Mbappe's cross before falling on his back in apparent disbelief and being surrounded by his team mates in a goal celebration that lasted longer than usual, giving an exhilarating feel to France's win. It took Giroud, who owed his place in the starting lineup to Benzema's absence, 115 international appearances to score his 51 goals, while Henry needed 123 from 1997-2010. There were more chances for France through Hernandez and Ibrahima Konate but the result was satisfying enough, bearing in mind that in 2002 the defence of their title started with a 1-0 loss to Senegal and was followed by a first-round exit.

FIFA World Cup 2022 | Giroud equals scoring record as France beat Australia in dominant opener

The action continues in the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2022 edition, in Qatar, on Tuesday (November 22) with as many as three games on the cards. Lionel Messi will be seen in action as Argentina will open their campaign versus Saudi Arabia, in Group C, at the Lusail Stadium, Qatar. All eyes will be on superstar Messi as the 35-year-old will aim to start off well in what is most likely to be his last World Cup appearance.

As Messi will step on to the ground, the Argentinian will&nbsp;become the first player from his country to feature&nbsp;in as many as five separate World Cups. Earlier, both Diego Maradona and Javier Mascherano had appeared&nbsp;in four world cups each.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/qatar-world-cup-fifa-rejects-belgiums-away-shirts-due-to-word-love-536286">Qatar World Cup: FIFA rejects Belgium's away shirts due to word 'Love'</a>

Talking about Messi, the veteran will be eager to make the most of this edition of the World Cup, in Qatar, which is set to be his last in the mega event's history. Last year, he won his first international trophy by leading Argentina to the Copa America title, with a win over Brazil, and will now aim to move past the missed opportunity in the 2014 World Cup, where Argentina lost to Germany in the final.

In the 2018 edition, Argentina ended their campaign in the Round of 16. In Qatar 2022, they are placed in Group C along with Saudi Arabia, Mexico and Poland.&nbsp;

Argentina World Cup 2022 Final Squad

Emiliano Martinez, Franco Armani,&nbsp;Nahuel Molina,&nbsp;Gonzalo Montiel,&nbsp;German Pezzella,&nbsp;Nicolas Otamendi,&nbsp;Cristian Romero,&nbsp;Lisandro Martinez,&nbsp;Nicolas Tagliafico, Marcos Acuna, Juan Foyth,&nbsp;Guido Rodriguez, Rodrigo De Paul, Exequiel Palacios,&nbsp;Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez, Alejandro Gomez,&nbsp;Leandro Paredes,&nbsp;Lionel Messi (c),&nbsp; Nicolas Gonzalez, Lautaro Martinez, Paulo Dybala, Julian Alvarez, Joaquin Correa, Angel Di Maria

The action continues in the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2022 edition, in Qatar, on Tuesday (November 22) with as many as three games on the cards. Lionel Messi will be seen in action as Argentina will open their campaign versus Saudi Arabia, in Group C, at the Lusail Stadium, Qatar.

The action continues in the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2022 edition, in Qatar, on Tuesday (November 22) with as many as three games on the cards. Lionel Messi will be seen in action as Argentina will open their campaign versus Saudi Arabia, in Group C, at the Lusail Stadium, Qatar. All eyes will be on superstar Messi as the 35-year-old will aim to start off well in what is most likely to be his last World Cup appearance. As Messi will step on to the ground, the Argentinian will become the first player from his country to feature in as many as five separate World Cups. Earlier, both Diego Maradona and Javier Mascherano had appeared in four world cups each. Also read: Qatar World Cup: FIFA rejects Belgium's away shirts due to word 'Love' Talking about Messi, the veteran will be eager to make the most of this edition of the World Cup, in Qatar, which is set to be his last in the mega event's history. Last year, he won his first international trophy by leading Argentina to the Copa America title, with a win over Brazil, and will now aim to move past the missed opportunity in the 2014 World Cup, where Argentina lost to Germany in the final. In the 2018 edition, Argentina ended their campaign in the Round of 16. In Qatar 2022, they are placed in Group C along with Saudi Arabia, Mexico and Poland. Argentina World Cup 2022 Final Squad Emiliano Martinez, Franco Armani, Nahuel Molina, Gonzalo Montiel, German Pezzella, Nicolas Otamendi, Cristian Romero, Lisandro Martinez, Nicolas Tagliafico, Marcos Acuna, Juan Foyth, Guido Rodriguez, Rodrigo De Paul, Exequiel Palacios, Alexis Mac Allister, Enzo Fernandez, Alejandro Gomez, Leandro Paredes, Lionel Messi (c), Nicolas Gonzalez, Lautaro Martinez, Paulo Dybala, Julian Alvarez, Joaquin Correa, Angel Di Maria

FIFA World Cup: Lionel Messi to achieve major milestone in Argentina's opener vs Saudi Arabia

A US journalist covering the FIFA World Cup in Qatar claimed that he was detained for wearing a rainbow shirt supporting the LGBTQ community.

Grant Wahl, who runs his own website covering football and formerly worked for Sports Illustrated, tweeted that he was not allowed to enter the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium in Al Rayyan for Monday’s match between US and Wales because of his shirt, which had a soccer ball surrounded by a rainbow.

Wahl tweeted that he was told: “You have to change your shirt. It’s not allowed.”

He later alleged that his phone was taken away when he tweeted about the incident.

"I'm OK, but that was an unnecessary ordeal," Wahl wrote on Twitter.

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Free to read: What happened when Qatar World Cup security detained me for 25 minutes for wearing a t-shirt supporting LGBTQ rights, forcibly took my phone and angrily demanded that I remove my t-shirt to enter the stadium. (I refused.) Story: <a href="https://t.co/JKpXXETDkH">https://t.co/JKpXXETDkH</a> <a href="https://t.co/HEjr0xzxU5">pic.twitter.com/HEjr0xzxU5</a>
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Wahl further said that he was later allowed to enter the venue after a security commander approached him and apologised.

He also said that he received an apology from a representative of FIFA.

Qatari law criminalises same-sex activity and can lead to heavier sentences of up to seven years in jail if found to be displaying any sexual acts of homosexuality.

<h2>Gravitas | Western Hypocrisy: England takes the knee in Qatar, not in Pakistan</h2>

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Under the country’s sharia law, the maximum punishment for same-sex relationships is the death penalty.

Qatar’s selection as the host nation for the FIFA World Cup match has been the subject of much controversy due to its human rights records.

Human Rights Watch claims to have documented six cases of severe and repeated beatings and five cases of sexual harassment against LGBTQ+ people in police custody between 2019 and 2022.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“While Qatar prepares to host the World Cup, security forces are detaining and abusing LGBT people simply for who they are, apparently confident that the security force abuses will go unreported and unchecked,” it said.

“Qatari authorities need to end impunity for violence against LGBT people. The world is watching.”

&nbsp;

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A US journalist covering the FIFA World Cup in Qatar claimed that he was detained for wearing a rainbow shirt supporting the LGBTQ community. Grant Wahl, who runs his own website covering football and formerly worked for Sports Illustrated, tweeted that he was not allowed to enter the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium in Al Rayyan for Monday’s match between US and Wales because of his shirt, which had a soccer ball surrounded by a rainbow.

A US journalist covering the FIFA World Cup in Qatar claimed that he was detained for wearing a rainbow shirt supporting the LGBTQ community. Grant Wahl, who runs his own website covering football and formerly worked for Sports Illustrated, tweeted that he was not allowed to enter the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium in Al Rayyan for Monday’s match between US and Wales because of his shirt, which had a soccer ball surrounded by a rainbow. Wahl tweeted that he was told: “You have to change your shirt. It’s not allowed.” He later alleged that his phone was taken away when he tweeted about the incident. "I'm OK, but that was an unnecessary ordeal," Wahl wrote on Twitter. Free to read: What happened when Qatar World Cup security detained me for 25 minutes for wearing a t-shirt supporting LGBTQ rights, forcibly took my phone and angrily demanded that I remove my t-shirt to enter the stadium. (I refused.) Story: https://t.co/JKpXXETDkH pic.twitter.com/HEjr0xzxU5 — Subscribe to GrantWahl.com (@GrantWahl) November 21, 2022 × Wahl further said that he was later allowed to enter the venue after a security commander approached him and apologised. He also said that he received an apology from a representative of FIFA. Qatari law criminalises same-sex activity and can lead to heavier sentences of up to seven years in jail if found to be displaying any sexual acts of homosexuality. Gravitas | Western Hypocrisy: England takes the knee in Qatar, not in Pakistan Under the country’s sharia law, the maximum punishment for same-sex relationships is the death penalty. Qatar’s selection as the host nation for the FIFA World Cup match has been the subject of much controversy due to its human rights records. Human Rights Watch claims to have documented six cases of severe and repeated beatings and five cases of sexual harassment against LGBTQ+ people in police custody between 2019 and 2022. “While Qatar prepares to host the World Cup, security forces are detaining and abusing LGBT people simply for who they are, apparently confident that the security force abuses will go unreported and unchecked,” it said. “Qatari authorities need to end impunity for violence against LGBT people. The world is watching.”

FIFA World Cup: US journalist ‘detained’ at Qatar stadium for sporting rainbow shirt

Defender Andreas Cornelius hit the post and Denmark had a late penalty appeal turned down, while Tunisia wasted two clear chances in a 0-0 draw in their World Cup Group D opener at Education City Stadium on Tuesday. Tunisia were roared on by their sizeable following in the 42,925 crowd, whose deafening whistles and roars gave energy to their side and helped secure what had seemed an unlikely point before kickoff.

Denmark thought they should have had a penalty in stoppage time for handball that was checked at the VAR screen by referee Cesar Arturo Ramos, but he instead gave a free kick to Tunisia for a foul in the build-up.

Denmark would have hoped to create more chances in the game, but their best came late in the second half when Cornelius only had to nod the ball over the line at the back post but instead flicked it onto the woodwork.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-day-3-schedule-matches-venues-and-live-streaming-ott-channel-broadcast-details-536499">FIFA World Cup 2022, Day 3 Schedule – Matches, venues and live streaming-OTT, channel broadcast details!</a>

Tunisia, who this week had spoken of their pride at qualifying for the World Cup in an Arab country, were fired up from the first whistle, celebrating each tackle like a goal, and had two excellent chances to open the scoring.

The first fell to Denmark-based Issam Jebali when he found himself one-on-one with Kasper Schmeichel, but could not beat the Danish goalkeeper, who made an excellent, instinctive save.

The second saw Aissa Laidouni race clear from his own half, but as he approached the Denmark penalty area, he hesitated and opted for a pass that was not on rather than advancing 10 yards and having an effort on goal.

In the context of the game, both might look at it as two points dropped, but Tunisia will certainly be happier given the low level of expectation placed on them – from outside their camp at least - going into the tournament.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/we-didnt-expect-to-start-like-this-lionel-messi-on-argentinas-shock-defeat-536521">‘We didn't expect to start like this...’ – Lionel Messi on Argentina’s shock World Cup defeat</a>

They will face Australia next on Saturday, a game they will have targeted as their most winnable in the group, while Denmark meet France behind the points tally they would have set themselves at this stage.

There were other chances in the game as well. Right back Mohamed Drager saw his shot from 25 yards deflected off defender Andreas Christensen and go just wide with Schmeichel rooted to the spot.

Christian Eriksen was pulling the strings for the Danes but they struggled at times to get him onto the ball. When he did find a pocket of space just outside the Tunisian box, his shot was well saved by Aymen Dahmen in the Tunisia goal.

Denmark coach Kasper Hjulmand will be sweating on a knee injury to midfielder Thomas Delaney that forced him off in the first half.

Defender Andreas Cornelius hit the post and Denmark had a late penalty appeal turned down, while Tunisia wasted two clear chances in a 0-0 draw in their World Cup Group D opener at Education City Stadium on Tuesday.

Defender Andreas Cornelius hit the post and Denmark had a late penalty appeal turned down, while Tunisia wasted two clear chances in a 0-0 draw in their World Cup Group D opener at Education City Stadium on Tuesday. Tunisia were roared on by their sizeable following in the 42,925 crowd, whose deafening whistles and roars gave energy to their side and helped secure what had seemed an unlikely point before kickoff. Denmark thought they should have had a penalty in stoppage time for handball that was checked at the VAR screen by referee Cesar Arturo Ramos, but he instead gave a free kick to Tunisia for a foul in the build-up. Denmark would have hoped to create more chances in the game, but their best came late in the second half when Cornelius only had to nod the ball over the line at the back post but instead flicked it onto the woodwork. ALSO READ: FIFA World Cup 2022, Day 3 Schedule – Matches, venues and live streaming-OTT, channel broadcast details! Tunisia, who this week had spoken of their pride at qualifying for the World Cup in an Arab country, were fired up from the first whistle, celebrating each tackle like a goal, and had two excellent chances to open the scoring. The first fell to Denmark-based Issam Jebali when he found himself one-on-one with Kasper Schmeichel, but could not beat the Danish goalkeeper, who made an excellent, instinctive save. The second saw Aissa Laidouni race clear from his own half, but as he approached the Denmark penalty area, he hesitated and opted for a pass that was not on rather than advancing 10 yards and having an effort on goal. In the context of the game, both might look at it as two points dropped, but Tunisia will certainly be happier given the low level of expectation placed on them – from outside their camp at least - going into the tournament. ALSO READ: ‘We didn't expect to start like this...’ – Lionel Messi on Argentina’s shock World Cup defeat They will face Australia next on Saturday, a game they will have targeted as their most winnable in the group, while Denmark meet France behind the points tally they would have set themselves at this stage. There were other chances in the game as well. Right back Mohamed Drager saw his shot from 25 yards deflected off defender Andreas Christensen and go just wide with Schmeichel rooted to the spot. Christian Eriksen was pulling the strings for the Danes but they struggled at times to get him onto the ball. When he did find a pocket of space just outside the Tunisian box, his shot was well saved by Aymen Dahmen in the Tunisia goal. Denmark coach Kasper Hjulmand will be sweating on a knee injury to midfielder Thomas Delaney that forced him off in the first half.

FIFA World Cup 2022: Amid late drama Tunisia held Denmark to 0-0 draw

Soccer federations who had planned to wear the 'OneLove' armbands to make a statement against discrimination during the World Cup in Qatar were faced with "extreme blackmail" that led to dropping the planned action, the German Football Association (DFB) said on Tuesday. The federations of England, Wales, Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, and Denmark had said on Monday they had been put under pressure by FIFA, who had threatened to issue yellow cards to any player wearing the multi-coloured armband.

Homosexuality is illegal in the Gulf state.

The DFB's media director Steffen Simon told German Deutschlandfunk radio that England, who had been the first team to be expected to wear it on Monday in their game against Iran, had been threatened with multiple sporting sanctions.

"The tournament director went to the English team and talked about multiple rule violations and threatened with massive sporting sanctions without specifying what these would be," he said.

Simon, who did not specify if he was referring to local organisers or FIFA in his reference to the tournament director, said the other six nations then decided to "show solidarity" and not wear it.

"We lost the armband and it is very painful but we are the same people as before with the same values. We are not impostors who claim they have values and then betray them," he said.

"We were in an extreme situation, in an extreme blackmail and we thought we had to take that decision without wanting to do so."

The English team did not want to comment on this matter. FIFA and local organisers did not respond to Reuters' requests for comment.

The reaction in Germany to the DFB's U-turn has been one of scathing criticism, with supermarket chain REWE dropping its deal with the DFB. The federation's reputation has suffered in recent years with four previous presidents resigning amid corruption allegations and other scandals, or being tarnished by them.

"I can understand the disappointment. We had the choice between the plague and cholera," Simon said.

The DFB told Reuters it was now checking all its options following FIFA's decision.

While the European nations decided to drop the armbands, the national team of Iran declined to sing their anthem before their opening World Cup match on Monday in a sign of support for mass protests back home and a violent state crackdown on the unrest.

"We have a lot of respect to what the Iran team did yesterday," Simon said. "We feel with the Iranian women. Yes, we don't have the symbol anymore but we still stand by the values associated with this symbol.

"The DFB is in a fundamental opposition within FIFA," he said.

Soccer federations who had planned to wear the 'OneLove' armbands to make a statement against discrimination during the World Cup in Qatar were faced with "extreme blackmail" that led to dropping the planned action, the German Football Association (DFB) said on Tuesday.

Soccer federations who had planned to wear the 'OneLove' armbands to make a statement against discrimination during the World Cup in Qatar were faced with "extreme blackmail" that led to dropping the planned action, the German Football Association (DFB) said on Tuesday. The federations of England, Wales, Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany, and Denmark had said on Monday they had been put under pressure by FIFA, who had threatened to issue yellow cards to any player wearing the multi-coloured armband. Homosexuality is illegal in the Gulf state. The DFB's media director Steffen Simon told German Deutschlandfunk radio that England, who had been the first team to be expected to wear it on Monday in their game against Iran, had been threatened with multiple sporting sanctions. "The tournament director went to the English team and talked about multiple rule violations and threatened with massive sporting sanctions without specifying what these would be," he said. Simon, who did not specify if he was referring to local organisers or FIFA in his reference to the tournament director, said the other six nations then decided to "show solidarity" and not wear it. "We lost the armband and it is very painful but we are the same people as before with the same values. We are not impostors who claim they have values and then betray them," he said. "We were in an extreme situation, in an extreme blackmail and we thought we had to take that decision without wanting to do so." The English team did not want to comment on this matter. FIFA and local organisers did not respond to Reuters' requests for comment. The reaction in Germany to the DFB's U-turn has been one of scathing criticism, with supermarket chain REWE dropping its deal with the DFB. The federation's reputation has suffered in recent years with four previous presidents resigning amid corruption allegations and other scandals, or being tarnished by them. "I can understand the disappointment. We had the choice between the plague and cholera," Simon said. The DFB told Reuters it was now checking all its options following FIFA's decision. While the European nations decided to drop the armbands, the national team of Iran declined to sing their anthem before their opening World Cup match on Monday in a sign of support for mass protests back home and a violent state crackdown on the unrest. "We have a lot of respect to what the Iran team did yesterday," Simon said. "We feel with the Iranian women. Yes, we don't have the symbol anymore but we still stand by the values associated with this symbol. "The DFB is in a fundamental opposition within FIFA," he said.

Blackmailed, threatened by FIFA to not don armbands in World Cup, says German FA

It’s been some time since the first game on day 2 ended in a shocker with Saudi Arabia beating Argentina 2-1 in FIFA World Cup 2022. Lionel Messi, who was the lone scorer for his team said five bad minutes of play saw them going down in their first encounter at this year’s World Cup in Qatar.

Speaking to an Argentine television news channel, Todo Noticias after the loss, Messi said they didn’t expect to start the tournament like this and that this is a situation in which most of his team players have never really been.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-saudi-arabia-beats-argentina-fans-exploded-in-funniest-meme-fest-536493">FIFA World Cup 2022: Saudi Arabia BEATS Argentina, fans exploded in funniest meme fest</a>

"It's a situation that this group of players has never been through, it's been a while since we suffered such a tough blow, we didn't expect to start like this," Lionel Messi said.

Messi, who opened the scoring for his team had his one goal&nbsp;disallowed in the first half before Saudi Arabia made a remarkable comeback and netted two goals inside five minutes in the next half to put their team ahead against the tournament favourites.

Talking about that phase, Messi said, "In five minutes of mistakes that we made, we went 2-1 down, and then it was really tough and we lost organization and started punting the ball."

Messi’s Argentina, who entered this tournament with 36 successive wins behind their back, knew what Saudi Arabia is capable of despite being ranked the second-lowest team in FIFA World Cup 2022.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-offside-traps-and-pure-grit-how-saudi-arabia-stunned-argentina-and-the-world-536502">FIFA World Cup 2022: Offside traps and pure grit - How Saudi Arabia stunned Argentina and the world</a>

"We knew they were a team who would play if we let them...They did not surprise us, we knew they could do that."

With two more matches left to be played in the group C against Mexico (November 27th) and Poland (December 21st), Messi believes winning is the only option his team have if they have to live their dream of lifting the World Cup.

"Obviously we have to win or win now. It's up to us to fix what we did wrong and get back to the basics of who we are."

It’s been some time since the first game on day 2 ended in a shocker with Saudi Arabia beating Argentina 2-1 in FIFA World Cup 2022. Lionel Messi, who was the lone scorer for his team said five bad minutes of play saw them going down in their first encounter at this year’s World Cup in Qatar.

It’s been some time since the first game on day 2 ended in a shocker with Saudi Arabia beating Argentina 2-1 in FIFA World Cup 2022. Lionel Messi, who was the lone scorer for his team said five bad minutes of play saw them going down in their first encounter at this year’s World Cup in Qatar. Speaking to an Argentine television news channel, Todo Noticias after the loss, Messi said they didn’t expect to start the tournament like this and that this is a situation in which most of his team players have never really been. ALSO READ: FIFA World Cup 2022: Saudi Arabia BEATS Argentina, fans exploded in funniest meme fest "It's a situation that this group of players has never been through, it's been a while since we suffered such a tough blow, we didn't expect to start like this," Lionel Messi said. Messi, who opened the scoring for his team had his one goal disallowed in the first half before Saudi Arabia made a remarkable comeback and netted two goals inside five minutes in the next half to put their team ahead against the tournament favourites. Talking about that phase, Messi said, "In five minutes of mistakes that we made, we went 2-1 down, and then it was really tough and we lost organization and started punting the ball." Messi’s Argentina, who entered this tournament with 36 successive wins behind their back, knew what Saudi Arabia is capable of despite being ranked the second-lowest team in FIFA World Cup 2022. ALSO READ: FIFA World Cup 2022: Offside traps and pure grit - How Saudi Arabia stunned Argentina and the world "We knew they were a team who would play if we let them...They did not surprise us, we knew they could do that." With two more matches left to be played in the group C against Mexico (November 27th) and Poland (December 21st), Messi believes winning is the only option his team have if they have to live their dream of lifting the World Cup. "Obviously we have to win or win now. It's up to us to fix what we did wrong and get back to the basics of who we are."

‘We didn't expect to start like this...’ – Lionel Messi on Argentina’s shock World Cup defeat

When Lionel Messi calmly put the ball in the net from the penalty spot against Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, it seemed business as usual for Argentina. The Latin American giants featured in almost every list of teams favoured to win the FIFA World Cup 2022 trophy and against a side ranked 51st in the world, Messi &amp; Co were heavily favoured to run riot. However, it seemed like no one gave Saudi Arabia the script as the Asian powerhouse produced a performance to remember with goals from Saleh Al-Shehri and Salem Al-Dawsari guiding them to the most memorable win in their history.

RECORDS AND CONTROVERSIES

With a forward line boasting of mega stars like Messi, Angel Di Maria and Lautaro Martinez, Argentina had no difficulties in controlling the game from the very first kick. They kept attacking the Saudi defense with quick passing and the breakthrough finally came as Saud Abdulhamid wrestling Leandro Parades to the ground inside the penalty area. Messi had no difficulties in opening the account for his side and becoming the first Argentine player to score four goals in four World Cups.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/saudi-arabia-pull-off-massive-upset-stun-lionel-messis-argentina-2-1-in-fifa-world-cup-2022-536465">Saudi Arabia pull off massive upset, stun Lionel Messi’s Argentina 2-1 in FIFA World Cup 2022</a>

However, it was the penalty decision was not without its controversies. It once again sparked the VAR’s inconsistency when it comes to deciding penalty decisions in case of player scuffles. Portuguese legend Figo compared the foul to a similar one committed against Harry Maguire during England’s game against Iran and even went on to say that it is completely fair in a “contact sport”.

TRAPPED AT THE BACK

The goal further bolstered Argentina’s confidence and over the next 30 minutes, the ball ended up in the Saudi net three times. However, none of them officially counted as the Argentine attackers were judged offside every time. While the press from Argentina seemed almost constant, Saudi Arabia stuck to the strategy that has become a trademark of manager Herve Renard.

Despite conceding an early goal, the four Saudi defenders - Saud Abdulhamid, Hassan Tambakti, Ali Al-Bulayhi and Yasser Al-Shahrani – kept holding a very high line and that meant the opposition forwards were constantly kept in doubt regarding their positioning at the start of an attack. The plan worked as Argentina were left frustrated as they were caught offside eight times within 45 minutes.

TEN MINUTES OF GENIUS

With Argentina going all out for the second goal, the Saudi attackers started finding spaces against the full backs Nahuel Molina and Nicolas Tagliafico. There were a couple of tame attempts in the first half, but Al Hilal striker Shehri suddenly found himself in an advantageous position against center back Christian Romero. The striker successfully went past Romero from the left and a well-placed shot was enough to beat Emiliano Martinez and spark wild celebrations among the fans.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-for-lionel-messi-and-cristiano-ronaldo-a-final-shot-at-immortality-536177">Opinion | FIFA World Cup 2022: For Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, a final shot at immortality</a>

The Saudi fans seemed to have found their voice for the first time in the game and the sound almost felt like a catalyst for their national&nbsp;team. Five minutes later, the unthinkable happened. Dawsari received the ball on the edge of the penalty box and was able to dodge past two Argentina defenders. With De Paul lunging for a tackle, he took a curling right foot shot and as if in slow motion, it sailed past Martinez’s outstretched hands and landed in the bottom corner of the goal.

OVERDEPENDANCE AND PURE GRIT

This was not supposed to happen, and Argentina seemed totally unprepared for this situation. The overdependence on the attacking trio meant that nearly all attacks had a set pattern and with Saudi players sitting deep, almost all passings channels were affected. Both Paredes and De Paul failed to make proper runs into the Saudi penalty box and although the introduction of Marcos Acuna in place of Tagliafico did boost the wing play, Argentina faced a new challenge - Mohammed Al-Owais.

The Saudi goalkeeper did not have much to do in the first half despite Argentina launching multiple attacks. Officially, the first shot on goal for Argentina came just before the 60-minute mark in the game if we do not count Messi’s penalty. The compact setting on the central defence meant that Argentina were forced to rely mainly on crosses and headers to attack his goal but Al-Owais was up to the challenge. Both Messi and substitute Julian Alvarez had chances to level the score towards the end of the match, but the Saudi goalkeeper held his ground and ended up making four crucial saves.

It was, by no stretch, a bad performance by Argentina. However, in front of the discipline and grit of Saudi Arabia, Messi and Co seemed almost clueless while trying to come up a viable Plan B.

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When Lionel Messi calmly put the ball in the net from the penalty spot against Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, it seemed business as usual for Argentina. The Latin American giants featured in almost every list of teams favoured to win the FIFA World Cup 2022 trophy and against a side ranked 51st in the world, Messi & Co were heavily favoured to run riot.

When Lionel Messi calmly put the ball in the net from the penalty spot against Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, it seemed business as usual for Argentina. The Latin American giants featured in almost every list of teams favoured to win the FIFA World Cup 2022 trophy and against a side ranked 51st in the world, Messi & Co were heavily favoured to run riot. However, it seemed like no one gave Saudi Arabia the script as the Asian powerhouse produced a performance to remember with goals from Saleh Al-Shehri and Salem Al-Dawsari guiding them to the most memorable win in their history. RECORDS AND CONTROVERSIES With a forward line boasting of mega stars like Messi, Angel Di Maria and Lautaro Martinez, Argentina had no difficulties in controlling the game from the very first kick. They kept attacking the Saudi defense with quick passing and the breakthrough finally came as Saud Abdulhamid wrestling Leandro Parades to the ground inside the penalty area. Messi had no difficulties in opening the account for his side and becoming the first Argentine player to score four goals in four World Cups. Also read | Saudi Arabia pull off massive upset, stun Lionel Messi’s Argentina 2-1 in FIFA World Cup 2022 However, it was the penalty decision was not without its controversies. It once again sparked the VAR’s inconsistency when it comes to deciding penalty decisions in case of player scuffles. Portuguese legend Figo compared the foul to a similar one committed against Harry Maguire during England’s game against Iran and even went on to say that it is completely fair in a “contact sport”. TRAPPED AT THE BACK The goal further bolstered Argentina’s confidence and over the next 30 minutes, the ball ended up in the Saudi net three times. However, none of them officially counted as the Argentine attackers were judged offside every time. While the press from Argentina seemed almost constant, Saudi Arabia stuck to the strategy that has become a trademark of manager Herve Renard. Despite conceding an early goal, the four Saudi defenders - Saud Abdulhamid, Hassan Tambakti, Ali Al-Bulayhi and Yasser Al-Shahrani – kept holding a very high line and that meant the opposition forwards were constantly kept in doubt regarding their positioning at the start of an attack. The plan worked as Argentina were left frustrated as they were caught offside eight times within 45 minutes. TEN MINUTES OF GENIUS With Argentina going all out for the second goal, the Saudi attackers started finding spaces against the full backs Nahuel Molina and Nicolas Tagliafico. There were a couple of tame attempts in the first half, but Al Hilal striker Shehri suddenly found himself in an advantageous position against center back Christian Romero. The striker successfully went past Romero from the left and a well-placed shot was enough to beat Emiliano Martinez and spark wild celebrations among the fans. Also read | Opinion | FIFA World Cup 2022: For Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, a final shot at immortality The Saudi fans seemed to have found their voice for the first time in the game and the sound almost felt like a catalyst for their national team. Five minutes later, the unthinkable happened. Dawsari received the ball on the edge of the penalty box and was able to dodge past two Argentina defenders. With De Paul lunging for a tackle, he took a curling right foot shot and as if in slow motion, it sailed past Martinez’s outstretched hands and landed in the bottom corner of the goal. OVERDEPENDANCE AND PURE GRIT This was not supposed to happen, and Argentina seemed totally unprepared for this situation. The overdependence on the attacking trio meant that nearly all attacks had a set pattern and with Saudi players sitting deep, almost all passings channels were affected. Both Paredes and De Paul failed to make proper runs into the Saudi penalty box and although the introduction of Marcos Acuna in place of Tagliafico did boost the wing play, Argentina faced a new challenge - Mohammed Al-Owais. The Saudi goalkeeper did not have much to do in the first half despite Argentina launching multiple attacks. Officially, the first shot on goal for Argentina came just before the 60-minute mark in the game if we do not count Messi’s penalty. The compact setting on the central defence meant that Argentina were forced to rely mainly on crosses and headers to attack his goal but Al-Owais was up to the challenge. Both Messi and substitute Julian Alvarez had chances to level the score towards the end of the match, but the Saudi goalkeeper held his ground and ended up making four crucial saves. It was, by no stretch, a bad performance by Argentina. However, in front of the discipline and grit of Saudi Arabia, Messi and Co seemed almost clueless while trying to come up a viable Plan B.

FIFA World Cup 2022: Offside traps and pure grit - How Saudi Arabia stunned Argentina and the world

After a power-packed couple of days at the FIFA World Cup 2022 where we saw Qatar becoming the first host nation to lose a world cup opener and Argentina going down to Saudi Arabia in a shocker, a lot was on offer for fans all across the world. Such a start to this football carnival gave the fans a gist of what is about to come.

Now moving ahead, let’s have a brief look at what is in store for us on day 3 of the FIFA World Cup 2022.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/saudi-arabia-pull-off-massive-upset-stun-lionel-messis-argentina-2-1-in-fifa-world-cup-2022-536465">Saudi Arabia pull off massive upset, stun Lionel Messi’s Argentina 2-1 in FIFA World Cup 2022</a>

FIFA World Cup 2022 Day 3 Matches, timings, and venues:

In the first of the four matches that are to be played on day 3 of the FIFA World Cup 2022, Morocco will take on 2018 World Cup finalist Croatia at the Al Bayt Stadium, marking this as the first occasion when these two teams will square off in the FIFA World Cup. The match will begin at 15:30 PM IST.

The second match of the day is a biggie – between former four-time World Cup winners Germany and Japan, set to be played at the Khalifa International Stadium. While this is also the first meeting between these two nations at the FIFA World Cup, Germany have never lost to Japan even during their friendly encounters in the past, having won once in 2004 (3-0). The timing of the second match is 18:30 PM IST.

In the third match of day 3 of the FIFA World Cup 2022, ex-champions Spain will play Costa Rica at Al Thumama Stadium. The match promises to be an exciting contest given how both squads are lined-up. This encounter will be telecasted live for the fans in India at 21:30 PM IST.

The fourth and final contest of the day will be played between Belgium and Canada, two teams that are expected to raise the bar on the match day. These teams, even in the past, have met only once, in a friendly match in 1989 in Ottawa where Belgium won by a margin of 2-0. As scheduled, the match will begin at 12:30 AM IST.

Live streaming on TV, OTT details -

All the fans across India can enjoy the live coverage of this FIFA World Cup 2022 on Sports18 and Sports 18 HD channels on TV, and on Jio Cinema app online.

After a power-packed couple of days at the FIFA World Cup 2022 where we saw Qatar becoming the first host nation to lose a world cup opener and Argentina going down to Saudi Arabia in a shocker, a lot was on offer for fans all across the world.

After a power-packed couple of days at the FIFA World Cup 2022 where we saw Qatar becoming the first host nation to lose a world cup opener and Argentina going down to Saudi Arabia in a shocker, a lot was on offer for fans all across the world. Such a start to this football carnival gave the fans a gist of what is about to come. Now moving ahead, let’s have a brief look at what is in store for us on day 3 of the FIFA World Cup 2022. ALSO READ: Saudi Arabia pull off massive upset, stun Lionel Messi’s Argentina 2-1 in FIFA World Cup 2022 FIFA World Cup 2022 Day 3 Matches, timings, and venues: In the first of the four matches that are to be played on day 3 of the FIFA World Cup 2022, Morocco will take on 2018 World Cup finalist Croatia at the Al Bayt Stadium, marking this as the first occasion when these two teams will square off in the FIFA World Cup. The match will begin at 15:30 PM IST. The second match of the day is a biggie – between former four-time World Cup winners Germany and Japan, set to be played at the Khalifa International Stadium. While this is also the first meeting between these two nations at the FIFA World Cup, Germany have never lost to Japan even during their friendly encounters in the past, having won once in 2004 (3-0). The timing of the second match is 18:30 PM IST. In the third match of day 3 of the FIFA World Cup 2022, ex-champions Spain will play Costa Rica at Al Thumama Stadium. The match promises to be an exciting contest given how both squads are lined-up. This encounter will be telecasted live for the fans in India at 21:30 PM IST. The fourth and final contest of the day will be played between Belgium and Canada, two teams that are expected to raise the bar on the match day. These teams, even in the past, have met only once, in a friendly match in 1989 in Ottawa where Belgium won by a margin of 2-0. As scheduled, the match will begin at 12:30 AM IST. Live streaming on TV, OTT details - All the fans across India can enjoy the live coverage of this FIFA World Cup 2022 on Sports18 and Sports 18 HD channels on TV, and on Jio Cinema app online.

FIFA World Cup 2022, Day 3 Schedule – Matches, venues and live streaming-OTT, channel broadcast details!

The FIFA World Cup 2022 is off to a flier. While Argentina lost their opener versus Saudi Arabia, England started off with a bang. On Monday (November 21), the English side&nbsp;locked horns with Iran in Group B and the encounter saw the Harry Kane-led&nbsp;side thrash Iran 6-2.

During the start of the clash, at the&nbsp;Khalifa International Stadium, a huge controversy broke out when Iran national team chose to remain silent and not sing their national anthem.&nbsp;All of the starting 11 players stood there silently with&nbsp;the anthem&nbsp;being played whereas even their&nbsp;fans, in the stands, backed the players and kept chanting&nbsp;"Woman, Life, Freedom". The silent protest is a result of the disturbance back home due to the hijab row.

Here's the video of Iranian fans backing their national players who stood silently during the national anthem:

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Protest by Iranian fans - booing their own national anthem ahead of match against England. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Qatar2022?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Qatar2022</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/iran?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#iran</a> <a href="https://t.co/3YN5V2y7BO">pic.twitter.com/3YN5V2y7BO</a>
— Jonathan Swain (@SwainITV) <a href="https://twitter.com/SwainITV/status/1594676809630900226?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 21, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-why-did-the-iranian-players-not-sing-their-national-anthem-before-the-match-536356">FIFA World Cup 2022: Why did the Iranian players not sing their national anthem before the match?&nbsp;</a>

As per a report, it seems the Iran players and fans are in trouble for not choosing to sing the national anthem. "The Iranian regime has clearly demonstrated its determination and ruthlessness in seeking to quell that unrest, particularly in public settings," David E. Guinn, a University of Albany research professor of international law and human rights, told Newsweek.

“While the public standing of the players might shield them for a time, particularly while they are competing in the World Cup, that standing will also make them of greater concern to the regime. They don't want prominent individuals stepping forward to feed the flames,”&nbsp;Guinn added.

Iran's team&nbsp;manager, Carlos Queiroz has already revealed that&nbsp;players are "free to protest" over women's rights issue back home as long as it "conforms with the World Cup regulations and is in the spirit of the game".&nbsp;

The FIFA World Cup 2022 is off to a flier. While Argentina lost their opener versus Saudi Arabia, England started off with a bang. On Monday (November 21), the English side locked horns with Iran in Group B and the encounter saw the Harry Kane-led side thrash Iran 6-2.

The FIFA World Cup 2022 is off to a flier. While Argentina lost their opener versus Saudi Arabia, England started off with a bang. On Monday (November 21), the English side locked horns with Iran in Group B and the encounter saw the Harry Kane-led side thrash Iran 6-2. During the start of the clash, at the Khalifa International Stadium, a huge controversy broke out when Iran national team chose to remain silent and not sing their national anthem. All of the starting 11 players stood there silently with the anthem being played whereas even their fans, in the stands, backed the players and kept chanting "Woman, Life, Freedom". The silent protest is a result of the disturbance back home due to the hijab row. Here's the video of Iranian fans backing their national players who stood silently during the national anthem: Protest by Iranian fans - booing their own national anthem ahead of match against England. #Qatar2022 #iran pic.twitter.com/3YN5V2y7BO — Jonathan Swain (@SwainITV) November 21, 2022 × Also read: FIFA World Cup 2022: Why did the Iranian players not sing their national anthem before the match? As per a report, it seems the Iran players and fans are in trouble for not choosing to sing the national anthem. "The Iranian regime has clearly demonstrated its determination and ruthlessness in seeking to quell that unrest, particularly in public settings," David E. Guinn, a University of Albany research professor of international law and human rights, told Newsweek. “While the public standing of the players might shield them for a time, particularly while they are competing in the World Cup, that standing will also make them of greater concern to the regime. They don't want prominent individuals stepping forward to feed the flames,” Guinn added. Iran's team manager, Carlos Queiroz has already revealed that players are "free to protest" over women's rights issue back home as long as it "conforms with the World Cup regulations and is in the spirit of the game".

FIFA World Cup: Iran team in trouble, may face arrest for not singing national anthem vs England

It took&nbsp;Lionel Messi just ten minutes to score his first goal in the ongoing FIFA World CUP 2022 as he opened the scoring for Argentina in their opening clash against Saudi Arabia at the Lusail Stadium in Lusail, Qatar. Messi opened the scoring for the Albiceleste after midfielder Leonardo Paredes was brought down inside the box by Saudi Arabia's Al Bulayahi.

Messi was calm and composed as he sent the Saudi Arabian goalkeeper to the wrong side by slotting the ball into the bottom right corner in what was an amazing finish. The Argentine legend equalled arch-rival Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup record with the opener as he extended his tally to seven goals. Both Ronaldo and Messi have scored seven goals each for their respective countries in the World Cup so far. Not only this, but Messi also became the first Argentine to score in four world cups.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fifa-world-cup-2022-germanys-leroy-sane-to-miss-opener-against-japan-out-to-knee-injury-536409">FIFA World Cup 2022: Germany’s Leroy Sane to miss opener against Japan, ruled out due to knee injury</a>

Meanwhile, at half-time Argentina - the hot favourites for the World Cup, are leading 1-0.&nbsp;Messi and co just didn't put the ball in the net once but four times, unfortunately, all getting ruled out due to off-side. Of those, two were netted by striker Lautaro Martinez and one by Lionel Messi. With more than 60% possession in the first half, Argentina was all over Saudi Arabia.

Things took a surprising turn at the beginning of the second half when Saudi Arabia equalled the scoreline in the 48th through&nbsp;Saleh Alshehri's strike. Just when Argentina looked like preparing for a comeback, they were jolted with yet another quick goal from&nbsp;Salem Aldawsari, and out of nowhere, Saudi Arabia was seen leading Argentina 2-1.&nbsp;

It took Lionel Messi just ten minutes to score his first goal in the ongoing FIFA World CUP 2022 as he opened the scoring for Argentina in their opening clash against Saudi Arabia at the Lusail Stadium in Lusail, Qatar.

It took Lionel Messi just ten minutes to score his first goal in the ongoing FIFA World CUP 2022 as he opened the scoring for Argentina in their opening clash against Saudi Arabia at the Lusail Stadium in Lusail, Qatar. Messi opened the scoring for the Albiceleste after midfielder Leonardo Paredes was brought down inside the box by Saudi Arabia's Al Bulayahi. Messi was calm and composed as he sent the Saudi Arabian goalkeeper to the wrong side by slotting the ball into the bottom right corner in what was an amazing finish. The Argentine legend equalled arch-rival Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup record with the opener as he extended his tally to seven goals. Both Ronaldo and Messi have scored seven goals each for their respective countries in the World Cup so far. Not only this, but Messi also became the first Argentine to score in four world cups. ALSO READ: FIFA World Cup 2022: Germany’s Leroy Sane to miss opener against Japan, ruled out due to knee injury Meanwhile, at half-time Argentina - the hot favourites for the World Cup, are leading 1-0. Messi and co just didn't put the ball in the net once but four times, unfortunately, all getting ruled out due to off-side. Of those, two were netted by striker Lautaro Martinez and one by Lionel Messi. With more than 60% possession in the first half, Argentina was all over Saudi Arabia. Things took a surprising turn at the beginning of the second half when Saudi Arabia equalled the scoreline in the 48th through Saleh Alshehri's strike. Just when Argentina looked like preparing for a comeback, they were jolted with yet another quick goal from Salem Aldawsari, and out of nowhere, Saudi Arabia was seen leading Argentina 2-1.

FIFA 2022: Lionel Messi equals Cristiano Ronaldo's World Cup record with penalty against Saudi Arabia

In what can be&nbsp;deemed the mother of all upsets, Saudi Arabia defeated the tournament&nbsp;favourites Argentina 2-1 in the FIFA World Cup 2022&nbsp;at the Lusail stadium in Lusail, Qatar on Tuesday. Lionel Messi opened the scoring for the South American giants&nbsp;by hitting a penalty in the 10th minute - thus equalling Cristiano Ronaldo's world cup record of seven goals. With this, he also became the first player from Argentina to score in four World Cups.&nbsp;

After clearly dominating the first half with three disallowed goals and 64% possession, Argentina looked all but set to beat Saudi Arabia. However, things took a surprising turn at the start of the second half when Saudi Arabia's&nbsp;Saleh Alshehri equalised with a goal in the 48th minute to make it 1-1. Four minutes later&nbsp;came a moment that shook the whole world as a quick goal from Salem Aldawsari made it 2-1 for Saudi Arabia.&nbsp;

The Argentinian side looked shocked like everyone but didn't drop their shoulders down. Until the last moment, they&nbsp;kept pushing for that one goal. Even after eight extra minutes past the regular time, the former champions couldn't score and thus lost the match, sending shockwaves all over.

With this massive win, Saudi Arabia became the first non-European team to beat Argentina at the FIFA World cup since Cameroon in 1990. Meanwhile, Argentina's next matches are against Mexico on Sunday, November 27th, and against Poland on Thursday, December 1st.&nbsp;

In what can be deemed the mother of all upsets, Saudi Arabia defeated the tournament favourites Argentina 2-1 in the FIFA World Cup 2022 at the Lusail stadium in Lusail, Qatar on Tuesday.

In what can be deemed the mother of all upsets, Saudi Arabia defeated the tournament favourites Argentina 2-1 in the FIFA World Cup 2022 at the Lusail stadium in Lusail, Qatar on Tuesday. Lionel Messi opened the scoring for the South American giants by hitting a penalty in the 10th minute - thus equalling Cristiano Ronaldo's world cup record of seven goals. With this, he also became the first player from Argentina to score in four World Cups. After clearly dominating the first half with three disallowed goals and 64% possession, Argentina looked all but set to beat Saudi Arabia. However, things took a surprising turn at the start of the second half when Saudi Arabia's Saleh Alshehri equalised with a goal in the 48th minute to make it 1-1. Four minutes later came a moment that shook the whole world as a quick goal from Salem Aldawsari made it 2-1 for Saudi Arabia. The Argentinian side looked shocked like everyone but didn't drop their shoulders down. Until the last moment, they kept pushing for that one goal. Even after eight extra minutes past the regular time, the former champions couldn't score and thus lost the match, sending shockwaves all over. With this massive win, Saudi Arabia became the first non-European team to beat Argentina at the FIFA World cup since Cameroon in 1990. Meanwhile, Argentina's next matches are against Mexico on Sunday, November 27th, and against Poland on Thursday, December 1st.

Saudi Arabia pull off massive upset, stun Lionel Messi’s Argentina 2-1 in FIFA World Cup 2022

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