The English national team has arrived in Qatar, on the eve of the 2022 World Cup, which starts on Sunday. Manager Southgate's men will train at a training complex in Doha ahead of their first game in the prestigious competition. England will play their first match against Iran on November 21, before the USA and Wales.
Captain Harry Kane commented to the media:
"Exaltation is present in all of us. We are happy to be here and we can't wait to start training... We are trying not to think too much, but it is clear that it (winning the World Cup) is our dream and our goal. It will be a tough and strong competition, we have to prepare for that."
The representatives have had very little time to prepare for the World Cup, since this time the prestigious competition will take place for the first time in the middle of the football season. Kane appeared aware of this fact, as he acknowledged the difficulties, but said the team feels motivated. The captain of "3 Lions" added:
"We are used to preparing matches with England in a short period, but with major competitions it is a slightly different situation. The mentality of the team will fit well and we will do the same."
Coach Gareth Southgate also gave his comments to the media ahead of the World Cup:
"For every player and coach, it is the pinnacle of world football, that's why we want to test ourselves on this stage."
Before arriving in Qatar, Prince William congratulated the national team players, wishing them luck and symbolically presenting them with the jersey numbers the players will wear during the World Cup. In a message on behalf of the royal family, the prince said:
"I'm here to say that the rest of the country is with you. We're all rooting for you, enjoy!”
