The World Cup has reached the knockouts after an intriguing group stage, but the tournament continues to run on two parallel tracks: brilliant action on the pitch and persistent off-field injustices.
Off-Field Issues Remain Central
All critiques of this tournament have proven valid and warranted, even as the football has delighted. The World Cup has withstood authoritarian leaders, corruption scandals, exploitation of migrant workers, and military dictatorships, and now faces sky-high ticket prices and restrictive immigration policies that undermine claims of inclusivity.
Iran's treatment has been particularly outrageous. The team passed through the tournament unbeaten, eliminated only by a last-gasp Austria goal against Algeria, but could have achieved more had they not been forced to switch training camps, been denied full backroom staff, or faced punitive travel restrictions.
Visa issues have soured the event, with reports that the US and Canada rejected over 80% of applications from certain countries. Senegal's official photographer could not enter Canada, DR Congo's most recognisable fan could only attend a game in Mexico, and hundreds of Scotland fans had their ESTA authorisations revoked at the last minute.
FIFA's Disregard for Fans
These problems indicate FIFA's disregard for fans and set a dangerous precedent. Host countries should be expected to adjust immigration protocols for a global event, as has been done previously. Sub-Saharan African journalists and fans faced difficulties for the Cup of Nations in Morocco; the incentive to improve for future World Cups is now questionable. Why should Saudi Arabia in 2034 not be extremely selective in whom they admit?
Decades of supporter culture have been overturned for quick profit. There is no reward for loyalty, no acknowledgment that regular fans who create atmosphere are part of the experience. The cost of tickets, transport, and necessities like water in stadiums is exploitative. A reckoning seems unlikely soon.
Expansion and Competition Format
Expansion to 48 teams has worked, with limited dilution of quality. Cape Verde topped their qualifying group, DR Congo needed playoffs, and both have been assets. Curaçao even secured a point. However, best third-place teams advancing is unsatisfactory, reducing jeopardy—especially with head-to-head tiebreakers over goal difference—and leaving teams and fans in limbo. Further expansion to 64 teams seems inevitable and, while burdening hosts, may be preferable for competition.
On-Field Brilliance
The football has been good and will be remembered. The group stage averaged 2.99 goals per game, the highest since 1958 if maintained through knockouts. Big names have delivered: Lionel Messi scored five goals, while Ousmane Dembélé, Erling Haaland, Kylian Mbappé, and Vinícius Júnior each scored four. There have been few shocks: Uruguay, Turkey, and South Korea underperformed, but their exits were not surprising. The last 32 features intriguing ties, with potential for compelling last-16 matchups.
Drama and Fan Mobilisation
Drama included Ecuador's win over Germany, DR Congo's victory against Uzbekistan, and baffling injury-time in Algeria v Austria. Fan mobilisation, far less possible in Qatar, was evident: Scots in Boston, Colombians in Guadalajara, Dutch in Kansas City.
All this should be celebrated, but the World Cup's two realities persist. The football is engaging, but politics, injustices, and problems remain, even if occluded.
