The World Cup winds down as eight remain

by Maxwell Lowe

Sports Editor

World Cup trophy on field in front of goal. Photo by Unsplash.

The World Cup has lived up to its hype. Fans from all over the world have tuned in, to see the world’s biggest players on the biggest stage. After 56 games, eight teams remain, determining the winner of the FIFA 22 World Cup.

The World Cup begins with 32 teams randomly drawn into eight different groups. With four teams per group, each team plays each other. The top two teams with the best record from each group advances to the round of 16.

From Lionel Messi’s Argentina getting upset, to Germany and Belgium not moving on, the group stage provided all the drama. But the round of 16 didn’t disappoint with two upsets in penalties.

With the United States getting knocked out in the round of 16, staff and students were asked about how they felt the United States performed. Many responses were positive with Makenna Bibbey (10) saying, “They did really good, they played their hearts out.” Even with the United States losing 3-1 in their round of 16 game Mr. Alghussain agreed, saying, “the United States did better than they have in the past. However, historically our Men's soccer team has never been wonderful … I’d say [the United States] played pretty well, but we have a lot of room for improvement.” With the highlight of the tournament being a tie against a strong England side, the United States “did the best they could“ said Asmaa Kebbati (9).

Eight teams remind and nobody is at great advantage. Although, from the staff and students asked, Brazil was a favorite with Olivia Solokha saying, “they play really well as a team” and Mr. Borden backed her up, saying, “Brazil has all the momentum and I feel like Brazil is going to be the team that actually ends up winning” with Brazil being favored, all eight teams have great chances.

Although many hope to see Messi and Ronaldo, in what seems to be their last World Cup, win it all, some think it is unlikely. Bibby says, “I really hope Argentina will win, for Messi” and Solokha says, “I want Portugal to win because of Ronaldo”. France is also favored, having many top players. Mr. Borden said, “I think they [France] could win it, because I think Mbappé is probably the best player right now”

Some also want Morocco to win. Beating Spain in the round of 16 in penalty, and finishing ahead of Belgium in their group, many would call Morocco the underdog story. Kebbati said, “I want Morocco to win because they are a good team.” Mr. Alghussain backs her up by saying, “definitely Morocco” when asked who he wants to win the World Cup. With Morocco providing all of the energy and drama, they are a fan favorite.

Tune in to watch the last 10 games of the World Cup this weekend and next week.

All games are in English on Peacock and Fox.