Monaco’s midfield general, Alexander Golovin, has said he plans to follow this year’s World Cup in Qatar, naming France and Argentina as the frontrunners while leaving room for surprise contenders to emerge. He emphasized that his support won’t be biased toward any single team, but his anticipation for the tournament is undeniable. Watching the World Cup, he noted, is a must for any true football fan, because the event showcases the best of the sport and often reshapes expectations around players who are technically brilliant yet who may not always get the spotlight on the biggest stage.
Golovin pointed out that while France has depth and talent that suggests they could be favorites, past performances in major tournaments remind us that results aren’t solely a matter of names. He recalled recent European competitions where teams with star rosters encountered stiff resistance when facing seasoned opponents, illustrating that form, tactics, and cohesion often trump reputation alone. He also highlighted Argentina as a strong contender for the gold, recognizing their skill and pedigree on the world’s biggest stage, even amid the usual pressures that accompany a campaign of such magnitude.
The 2022 World Cup schedule in Qatar ran from November 20 to December 18, bringing together national squads from around the globe to crown the world champion. The road to the tournament for many nations was shaped by a mix of regional rivalries, playoff drama, and strategic preparations that tested teams’ depth and adaptability.
Historically, Russian qualification for the World Cup faced setback after a controversial playoff in March 2022, which ultimately cut short their chances to compete in that edition. The broader European football landscape then reacted to the evolving environment in international competition, with governing bodies re-evaluating participation for clubs and national teams in light of geopolitical developments.
Golovin’s reflections also touched on memories from prior qualification campaigns, including tough matches against Croatia that underscored how critical every moment is on the path to the finals. His comments reflect a nuanced view of how factors like squad depth, tactical adaptation, and momentum influence outcomes at the highest level, beyond the glare of star names. (Golovin, interview)