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Qatar made history by being the first Middle Eastern nation to host what is considered the biggest sporting event in the world thanks to its successful World Cup bid in 2010. On the field, there were also expectations that it would be a historic tournament for teams from the area.
There were four Arab countries represented at the World Cup in 2018, compared to just one in 2010 and 2014 (Algeria), and two in 2002 and 2006, showing a recent upward trend in the number of Arab teams qualifying to compete at the World Cup (Saudi Arabia and Tunisia). This year, four countries are taking part once more: Morocco, Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, and Qatar, who qualified as the host country automatically.
The progress that has allowed Arab teams to become competitive can be largely ascribed to two different strategies. The first strategy, which North African teams prefer, entails adopting and integrating an increasing number of dual nationalities and footballers from diaspora populations around Europe, a development driven by colonial history and migration patterns.
The other strategy, favored by the Gulf governments, involves a large and sustained investment in local football ecosystems. Therefore, a country’s ability to devote resources and money to the success of its sporting institutions will increase with its level of economic prosperity.
However, there is still opportunity for development. Only eight Arab countries have ever competed in a World Cup, hence a small group of countries enjoy a disproportionately large share of the success. Coming generations of Arab footballers will find plenty of inspiration from the upcoming tournaments.
