The FIFA warned Tunisia that its national team could be disqualified from the World Cup 2022 in Qatar. Because: The guidelines of the world governing body stipulate that it doesn’t tolerate political or legal interference in the committee of a football federation. This constitutes a prerequisite for eligibility to participate in the tournament. The reason for the criticism from the community and the admonition by the FIFA lies in a recent statement by the Tunisian Minister of Youth and Sports, Kamel Deguiche.
Deguiche stated that, including the football association, the federal authorities might be abolished. From the FIFA’s standpoint, this wording indicates an attempt to influence the work of the football federation. Therefore, the FIFA sent a letter to the Fédération Tunisienne de Football (FTF), which didn’t react yet. If it continues to do so, the team will be excluded from the World Cup.
Mali can hope for its first World Cup participation
Nigeria, the top-ranked non-qualified squad in the CAF confederation, figure to be the strongest contenders for an unexpected ticket to the World Cup. Both Kenya and Zimbabwe face suspensions and are ineligible either way. The European champions Italy would have a chance, but they could lose out. That’s because three UEFA members would clash in Group D. Nigerian committee members informed that they follow the situation closely. If Nigeria can’t or won’t compete, Mali would be the next possible contender. The Malians, who would make their first appearance at a World Cup, lost to the Eagles of Carthage in the qualifiers.
Iran, too, risks an exclusion from the World Cup
The FIFA World Cup 2022 starts on 20 November and approaches in big steps. Nevertheless, there are still relatively many speculations about the participants. Because: Not only the Tunisian national team causes headaches for the football fans. Ukraine asked FIFA to exclude Iran from the tournament due to its suspected involvement in the Russian invasion. From today’s perspective, the Team Melli would play against England, Wales, and the USA in Group B.
