The beginning of the World Cup started on November 20th on a Sunday. The starting game with Qatar and Ecuador was the first time in World Cup history that the hosting country lost its first match. Losing 2-0. As for the opening ceremony and song for this worldwide event. The Korean singer, Jeon Jung-kook started off the world cup with an amazing performance alongside Fahad Al Kubaisi making him the first-ever Asian to perform at the opening ceremony. As more matches have been going on daily, about half the teams are set for the round of 16. The teams included are The United States, Netherlands, Argentina, Australia, Denmark, Senegal, France, and Poland. During these next few days, 8 more teams will be joining them. Most people are cheering on Brazil this year, and they are the team to win. Although they do have injuries within their team including Neymar, who is out at the moment with an ankle injury and doesn’t look like he will be back on the field anytime soon. Even with one of their best players out Brazil is still going to be a difficult team to beat. People at the moment are worried about the Iranian soccer team, after their loss to the U.S. Multiple experts have stated that the Iranian team could face arrest or, worse, brutal beatings. Once their team returns home. A political author and expert stated, “After the team’s initial protest of its country’s national anthem on November 21st players could now be facing retribution.” The same expert said “Even if they had won, they would have been arrested, soundly beaten, and warned, ‘Don’t ever do this again.’” Making many people worry for the team. The players did not sing along to their national anthem during their opening game against England to show support for protesters in their home country. Suddenly four days later they sang along to it during the game against Wales and later, the U.S. Reports say that their families could face “violence and torture” if the protest decided to pick up again. May the Iranian team be safe. Palisade student Brenae Snover stated, “I’ve been very surprised with the outcome of some of the games, but it’s a fun event to watch.” Some of the biggest surprises during this event is Saudi Arabia winning against Argentina, 2-1. As well as Japan beating Germany, 2-1. Many things have happened this year that have just left people shocked and more surprises will continue. This year is the year you will want to watch this worldwide event.