Football News - Saudi Crown Prince MbS in Qatar for World Cup opening ceremony

2022-11-20 12:37

Football News - Saudi Crown Prince MbS in Qatar for World Cup opening ceremony

Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman arrived in Doha late Saturday to attend the opening ceremony of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar on Sunday, in a show of unity in the Gulf after a three-year regional dispute ended last year.


Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad al - Thani , deputy of Qatari Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al - Thani , said in a statement . Rathani attended Prince Mohammed's reception upon his arrival in Doha.

Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain and Egypt severed ties with Qatar between 2017 and January 2021 over its alleged support of " terrorism " - referring to Islamic groups. But Doha has denied the allegations.

Riyadh and Cairo have since spearheaded efforts to mend ties and appointed ambassadors to Qatar, while Abu Dhabi and Manama have yet to do so. All countries have resumed travel and trade links except Bahrain.


play well, enjoy the game

Prince Mohammed visited Doha late last year during his first official visit to Qatar since his appointment as crown prince in 2017 .

The World Cup is being held in the Middle East for the first time, and Doha hopes the event will generate various economic benefits that will be shared with its Gulf neighbours.

Saudi Arabia 's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has told his country's footballers that no one expects them to score any points at the upcoming World Cup in Qatar.  

In a pre-match reception, the crown prince said on Sunday he did not want the players to feel they were " under pressure " .

In his speech, Mohammed bin Salman said: " I know our group is going to be tough at the World Cup and no one expects us to win or draw. So all I can say is, stay comfortable, play well and enjoy the game. "