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KUALA LUMPUR – With the 2022 Qatar World Cup set to take the pitch in less than two months, the adrenaline has been building up across the globe.
Malaysia is no different as football fans across the nation will be glued to their television screens for all 64 matches from November 20 to December 18.
To raise the excitement, footballing icons Phillip Cocu and Mark Schwarzer were in town to celebrate Astro’s launch of their World Cup coverage in The Quest for the World Cup.
Speaking on the upcoming competition, Netherlands legend Philip said the Dutch national team will be a force to be reckoned with this year, as the youngsters will be stepping their game up in Qatar.
“Players like Cody Gakpo will be ones to watch this year. Many countries are relying on younger players, but the experience of senior players will also be heavily relied upon,” said the former FC Barcelona player.
He added that given that the World Cup will be ongoing during the football season, players’ performance in their respective leagues cannot be compared to their international duties.
“Together with the burdens from national expectations, they will be facing strong opponents from all over the world.”
Meanwhile, former Australian goalkeeper Mark said his country will be facing a tough task facing France, Denmark, and Tunisia in Group D.
However, the former Chelsea keeper said he would be rooting for his parents’ homeland, Germany this year with head coach Hansi Flick spearheading the squad.
“The German national team has been showing a different mental outlook lately due to Hansi’s tactical concept.
“19-year-old Jamal Musiala will be one player to look out for. Under Hansi’s training, he will be ushering a big explosion this season,” said Schwarzer.
Both legends did agree on one thing however – that African countries should not be taken lightly with players like Sadio Mane leading the Senegalese national team.
Mark, who played for FC Barcelona from 1998 to 2004, said although Sadio’s name is the most recognisable in the line-up, the Senegalese team will pack a punch this year at the World Cup.
“Edouard Mendy has been outstanding since he came to Europe, let alone his performance in Chelsea.
“He has proven all doubters wrong since he came into the limelight. He is now one of the best keepers around in Europe,” he said.
Philip played for the Dutch national squad from 1996 to 2006, while Mark was goalkeeper for the Australian national team from 1993 to 2013.
Astro will be showing all 64 matches live on their platform with three dedicated channels for the World Cup.
They will also be broadcasting 37 matches exclusively on their platform via three dedicated channels. – The Vibes, September 1, 2022
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