Is It Time To Start Preparing For The World Cup This Summer?
Although the domestic league seasons still have a long way to go, there’s no doubt that many of the world’s best players will be thinking about this summer’s FIFA World Cup, which is set to be hosted in Canada, Mexico and the USA.
Football fans in the UK have a lot to celebrate, with England and Scotland having already secured their places in this summer’s tournament.
Meanwhile, Wales and Northern Ireland still have an opportunity to qualify in the play-offs, as do neighbours the Republic of Ireland.
However, it’s clear that it will either be Wales or Northern Ireland who make it to the prestigious international tournament this summer, as their paths through the play-offs will see them encounter each other in the final round to secure a spot.
But as we know Scotland and England’s sides will be lining up, now is a good time to go to sports shops in Manchester to pick up your football shirts ahead of the tournament so you can show your allegiance to your favourite team.
As you would expect, the bookmakers are already marking certain teams out as favourites, with Spain, France and England all tipped to do well this summer. Of course, you can’t ever discount the likes of Brazil and Argentina when it comes to a World Cup tournament.
But, of course, there are always surprise performances in major tournaments, with unexpected teams rising to the occasion while those who are tipped as favourites may underperform on the day.
Whatever happens this summer, it’s sure to be an incredible spectacle that will give fans plenty to enjoy and commiserate over in equal measure.
Those watching in the UK will also need to be prepared for some late nights watching their teams, as the time difference means many matches will be played later in the evenings (with 9–10pm kick-offs) or even in the middle of the night (1–2am).