الأنظار تتجه إلى ملعب BC Place.. فانكوفر تترقب ليلة مونديالية كبرى

تتجه أنظار جماهير كرة القدم في كندا وقطر إلى ملعب «BC Place» بمدينة فانكوفر الكندية، الذي يستضيف مواجهة منتخبنا الوطني أمام نظيره الكندي ضمن الجولة الثانية من منافسات المجموعة الثانية في كأس العالم 2026، في تمام الثالثة عصر الخميس 18 يونيو الجاري بتوقيت فانكوفر، الواحدة صباح الجمعة 19 يونيو بتوقيت الدوحة، في لقاء يحمل أهمية كبيرة للطرفين في سباق التأهل إلى الدور التالي.
ويُعد ملعب BC Place إحدى أبرز المنشآت الرياضية في كندا وأكبر الملاعب المغطاة في غرب البلاد، حيث افتُتح عام 1983 وشهد منذ ذلك الحين العديد من الأحداث الرياضية والثقافية الكبرى. وتبلغ سعته خلال منافسات كأس العالم نحو 54 ألف متفرج، ما يجعله من أكبر الملاعب الكندية المشاركة في البطولة. وقد خضع الملعب لسلسلة من أعمال التطوير والتحديث استعداداً للمونديال، شملت تحسينات تقنية واسعة، وتطوير مرافق الجماهير واللاعبين، إلى جانب تركيب أرضية هجينة من العشب الطبيعي وفق متطلبات الاتحاد الدولي لكرة القدم.
ويقع الملعب في قلب مدينة فانكوفر، بالقرب من منطقة «فالس كريك» الشهيرة، ويتمتع بموقع استراتيجي يربطه بشبكات النقل العام الحديثة، ما يجعله من أكثر الملاعب سهولة في الوصول للجماهير القادمة من مختلف أنحاء العالم. كما يشتهر بسقفه القابل للطي، والذي يمنحه طابعاً معمارياً مميزاً ويتيح استضافة الأحداث الرياضية في مختلف الظروف المناخية.
ويحمل BC Place سجلاً حافلاً في استضافة البطولات الكبرى، إذ احتضن نهائي كأس العالم للسيدات عام 2015، عندما توج المنتخب الأمريكي باللقب بعد فوزه على اليابان، كما استضاف مباريات دولية عديدة للمنتخب الكندي وأندية الدوري الأمريكي للمحترفين.
وخلال كأس العالم 2026، تستضيف فانكوفر سبع مباريات، من بينها مباراتا المنتخب الكندي في الدور الأول أمام قطر وسويسرا، إضافة إلى مباراتين في الأدوار الإقصائية، ما يعزز مكانة المدينة كإحدى أبرز المدن المستضيفة للحدث العالمي. وتشير التقديرات إلى أن البطولة ستسهم في تنشيط الحركة السياحية والاقتصادية في مقاطعة بريتيش كولومبيا، مع تدفق عشرات الآلاف من المشجعين إلى المدينة خلال فترة المنافسات.
وتحظى مواجهة قطر وكندا بأهمية خاصة لأصحاب الأرض، حيث تعوّل الجماهير الكندية على الدعم الجماهيري الكبير المتوقع داخل الملعب، فيما يسعى المنتخب القطري إلى تقديم عرض قوي يؤكد تطور الكرة القطرية وقدرتها على المنافسة في أكبر المحافل العالمية.
ومع اقتراب موعد اللقاء، يتهيأ ملعب BC Place ليكون مسرحاً لواحدة من أبرز مباريات المجموعة الثانية، في أجواء جماهيرية استثنائية تعكس مكانة كأس العالم بوصفها أكبر حدث رياضي على مستوى العالم.



BC Place سجل حافل بالأحداث الرياضية الكبرى

لا تقتصر أهمية ملعب BC Place على استضافته لمباريات كأس العالم 2026، بل يمتلك سجلاً حافلاً باحتضان أبرز الأحداث الرياضية الدولية والقارية على مدار العقود الماضية، ما جعله واحداً من أشهر الملاعب في كندا وأمريكا الشمالية.
وكان الملعب مسرحاً لنهائي كأس العالم للسيدات 2015، الذي شهد تتويج المنتخب الأمريكي باللقب عقب فوزه على اليابان بنتيجة 5-2 أمام أكثر من 53 ألف متفرج. كما استضاف عدداً من مباريات البطولة ذاتها، بداية من دور المجموعات مروراً بدور الـ16 وربع النهائي وصولاً إلى المباراة النهائية. وفي عام 2010، خطف BC Place الأضواء عالمياً عندما احتضن حفلي الافتتاح والختام لدورة الألعاب الأولمبية الشتوية في فانكوفر، ليكون الواجهة الرئيسية لأحد أكبر الأحداث الرياضية التي استضافتها كندا. كما استضاف الملعب منافسات بطولة الكونكاكاف للسيدات المؤهلة لأولمبياد لندن 2012، والتي شهدت حضوراً جماهيرياً قياسياً خلال المباراة النهائية بين منتخبي الولايات المتحدة وكندا. وعلى صعيد الرياضة المحلية، يحتفظ الملعب بمكانة خاصة في تاريخ كرة القدم الكندية، بعدما استضاف نهائي كأس غراي، المباراة الختامية للدوري الكندي لكرة القدم، في تسع مناسبات مختلفة، وهو رقم يعكس مكانته كإحدى أبرز المنشآت الرياضية في البلاد. ولم تقتصر استضافاته على كرة القدم، إذ شهد في عام 2014 إقامة مباراة NHL Heritage Classic بين فريقي فانكوفر كانوكس وأوتاوا سيناتورز، في حدث تاريخي أصبح معه أول ملعب ذي سقف قابل للإغلاق يستضيف مباراة ضمن دوري الهوكي الوطني.

طقس مثالي ينتظر مباراة قطر وكندا

تشير التوقعات الجوية إلى أن مباراة العنابي ونظيره الكندي، المقررة 1 صباح الجمعة المقبل بتوقيت الدوحة، على ملعب BC Place بمدينة فانكوفر ضمن الجولة الثانية من منافسات المجموعة الثانية في كأس العالم 2026، ستقام في أجواء مناخية مثالية تساعد اللاعبين على تقديم أفضل مستوياتهم.
ووفقاً لهيئة الأرصاد الكندية، من المتوقع أن تشهد مدينة فانكوفر أجواءً مشمسة ومستقرة يوم المباراة، مع درجة حرارة عظمى تبلغ نحو 23 درجة مئوية، فيما تسجل درجات الحرارة خلال فترة بعد الظهر ما بين 22 و23 درجة مئوية، مع غياب فرص هطول الأمطار ورياح خفيفة.
وتُعد هذه الظروف المناخية ملائمة لإقامة المباريات الدولية، خاصة أن ملعب BC Place يتميز بسقف قابل للطي يوفر حماية إضافية في حال تغير الأحوال الجوية، وهو ما يمنح الجماهير واللاعبين أجواء مريحة خلال اللقاء المرتقب. ومن المنتظر أن تنطلق المباراة عند الساعة الثالثة عصراً بالتوقيت المحلي لفانكوفر، وسط توقعات بحضور جماهيري كبير لمؤازرة المنتخب الكندي صاحب الأرض، وايضا من جمهور العنابي في واحدة من أبرز مواجهات المجموعة الثانية بالمونديال.

Doha, Qatar: Lusail International Circuit (LIC) is set to script a defining chapter in global motorsport history by hosting a trio of global championships comprising of the Qatar 1812 KM - FIA World Endurance Championship 2026, MotoGP QATAR AIRWAYS GRAND PRIX OF QATAR 2026, and the FORMULA 1 QATAR AIRWAYS QATAR GRAND PRIX 2026 in a span of just five weeks, positioning Qatar at the centre of the international racing calendar.

This marks the culmination of a journey spanning more than two decades of evolution for the circuit, from its inauguration as MotoGP's Middle Eastern home in 2004, to pioneering the sport's first ever night race in 2008, to hosting its first Formula 1 race in 2021, before the FORMULA 1 QATAR AIRWAYS QATAR GRAND PRIX was officially included in the annual calendar starting in 2023. And finally, expanding into endurance racing with Qatar 1812 KM under the FIA World Endurance Championship in 2024, positioning the circuit as one of two in the world to host all three premier championships while holding the FIA’s three-star environmental certification, the highest level of recognition for sustainability in global motorsports. capturengo.org

The fourth quarter of 2026 will see LIC transform into a global motorsport epicentre, welcoming fans of all ages across three world-class events that blend elite competition with vibrant fan festivals, making it a must-visit destination for families and motorsport enthusiasts alike:

• The Qatar 1812 KM- FIA World Endurance Championship (October 22 to 24) returns for its third consecutive year, bringing the world’s leading manufacturers and endurance specialists to battle ten consecutive hours of racing as the penultimate round of the FIA World Endurance Championship. The event offers fans a unique blend of motorsport intensity with on-track strategy and off-track entertainment, including a vibrant Fan Zone. Fans can experience the race from the Main Grandstand, situated at the epicentre of the circuit and offering unparalleled views of the Main Straight, including the starting line, grid ceremony, pit stops, and the finish. They can also view from the Lusail Hill, a dedicated elevated General Admission viewing area at the end of Turn 1, with panoramic views to catch the on track action. Tickets include access to the Fan Zone, Qatar 1812 KM merchandise outlets, free parking, and taxi pick-up and drop-off zones. For those seeking a more premium experience, two hospitality options are available: the Qatar 1812 Lounge, offering a prime vantage point overlooking the Main Straight and Pit Lane, complete with trackside activities including daily Pit Lane Walks and driver autograph session; and the Le Mans Spirit Club, the official FIA WEC premium hospitality experience, featuring paddock and pit walk access, an exclusive grid walk, world class catering with free-flowing beverages, a driver Q&A during qualifying, and a dedicated VIP shuttle service.

• The MotoGP QATAR AIRWAYS GRAND PRIX OF QATAR 2026 (November 6 to 8) builds on more than two decades of history at Lusail International Circuit, maintaining its status as the only night race on the MotoGP calendar and one of the sport’s most visually iconic events. The weekend combines iconic on-track action across the MotoGP, Moto2, and Moto3 classes with a full programme of off-track entertainment, creating an electric atmosphere. Three-day tickets provide access to two prime viewing areas. The first being the Main Grandstand offers unmatched views of the Main Straight, with clear visibility of the starting line, grid ceremony, pit stops, and the finish line. Lusail Hill, on the other hand, is a dedicated elevated General Admission zone at the end of Turn 1, with multiple platforms offering prime vantage points of the on-track action. All tickets include Fan Zone access, merchandise outlets, a free shuttle to the metro station, and free parking. Fans seeking a premium race-weekend experience can enjoy the LIC Lounge hospitality package, which includes exclusive MotoGP Pit Lane and Hero Walk access, gourmet dining, VIP parking, and a range of additional benefits.

• FORMULA 1 QATAR AIRWAYS QATAR GRAND PRIX 2026 (November 27 to 29) marks the penultimate round of a new regulatory era for the sport. Grandstand tickets are available as three-day packages across multiple locations, with assigned seating at the Main Grandstand and free seating across all other grandstands including North, Turn 2, 3, and 16. General Admission tickets provide access to Lusail Hill as both single-day and three-day options. All tickets include access to the Fan Zone filled with activities for all ages , the food court offering local and international cuisines, post-race concerts, merchandise outlets, complimentary return shuttles from Lusail Metro Station, and free parking. For those looking to elevate their weekend, three world class hospitality packages are available at LIC: the F1 Experiences Champions Club, and Premiere Hospitality Private Suites, offering premium hospitality with prime trackside views and live entertainment from within the Premiere Hospitality venue.; and the Lusail Hill Lounge, featuring relaxed comfort, modern dining, and free flowing beverages with panoramic views of the Main Straight;

For fans, this unprecedented alignment offers something experienced never before: the opportunity to witness three fundamentally different forms of racing, endurance strategy, two wheel precision, and Formula 1 innovation, within close proximity, at a single world class venue. Spectators travelling from across the globe will find themselves at the heart of a motorsport festival that transcends disciplines, blending high octane competitions with world class luxury and rich cultural experiences, delivering a multi dimensional racing spectacle unique to Qatar.

In parallel with its global ambitions, LIC continues to prioritise accessibility and community engagement. Fans who attend Qatar 1812 KM can benefit from a cross-event discount, with 25% off MotoGP tickets and vice versa., while concessionary rates are also available for students and seniors across select ticket categories. Full details can be found at tickets.lcsc.qa. All tickets are digital mobile tickets delivered via the official Lusail Tickets App.

These initiatives reinforce the circuit’s commitment to opening the doors of world class motorsport to a broader and more diverse audience. With demand expected from across the region and internationally, fans are encouraged to secure their tickets early through the official Lusail International Circuit website at tickets.lcsc.qa.

The Hessa Street track will allow pelotons to velo on a network of paths and bridges from Dubai Hills to Internet City… Dubai is already home to some amazing cycling adventures. There are dedicated paths that take you through the winding skyscraper canyon of the Dubai Canal, there’s the Kite Beach chase – offering wild […]

The post An exciting new urban cycling route has just opened in Dubai appeared first on What's On.

Dallas, United States: Virgil van Dijk does not like them, fans have started booing them and the many critics say they are ruining the World Cup.
Hydration breaks last just a total of six minutes during a match, but they stand accused of fundamentally changing the nature of football at the sport's ultimate showpiece.

"Hydration breaks are a bit interesting," said Netherlands captain Van Dijk, whose side drew 2-2 with Japan in Texas on Sunday in an air-conditioned arena.

"I was watching almost all of the games up until today and every time going into a commercial is a bit... not really that I like it.

"I think for the neutral watchers on TV it's also not great."

Also Sunday, over at tournament co-host Mexico, spectators during Sweden's 5-1 thrashing of Tunisia in Monterrey made their disdain plain by booing loudly when the pause came in the first half.

Fans similarly jeered the break in Monday's game between Spain and Cape Verde in the air-conditioned arena in Atlanta.

The scheduled drinks breaks, not normally part of football, last three minutes each about midway through both halves of a game at the tournament in North America.

Football's world governing body FIFA says they are designed to protect player health and will be used at all World Cup games no matter where or what the weather.

So during the clash between the Netherlands and Japan, the game was halted even though the match was played in comfortable temperature-controlled conditions under a roof.

'Damaged for dollars'

During the first hydration break at the stadium usually home to the Dallas Cowboys, the NFL team's cheerleaders were shown performing on the giant screen that hovers over the centre of the pitch.

For people in the United States watching on television, broadcasters take the chance to cut away from the game and show commercials.

In American sports, there is nothing unusual in that.

But some critics have accused FIFA of greed, feeding into a narrative that has consistently dogged the tournament and its decision-makers.

The world governing body denies those accusations.

"This is the year when the game of two halves became the game of four quarters," prominent British football writer Henry Winter said.

"And the greatest sport and event was damaged for fistfuls of dollars."

In a warning that will send a chill down the spines of traditionalists, Winter warned that the stoppages -- and the chance for a money-spinning ad break -- could one day be rolled out everywhere.

In England, the BBC and ITV show World Cup matches but do not cut away from games during the stoppages.

"It's important that there is resistance to this from all over," he said.

"Because if we tolerate this, our TV games could be next."

Momentum shift

And then there is the effect on the natural flow of matches.

It might be just a coincidence, but several games have seen a noticeable shift in momentum from one team to the other immediately after a hydration break.

Because while the players are drinking, coaches understandably use it as a chance to change tactics or give out instructions if the game is not going their way.

Debutants Curacao levelled for 1-1 after 21 minutes against the mighty Germany on Sunday in Houston, another game played under a roof.

Then came the pause, and with it went any Curacao momentum, the Germans running out 7-1 winners.

Not everyone is against the drinks breaks, however, with Spain coach Luis de la Fuente saying player welfare was paramount.

"It is difficult to sustain that level of physical exertion for long periods and I believe those breaks offer a brief respite to recharge and continue competing well," he said.

But he also noted that, while some World Cup cities are experiencing fierce temperatures, it is not true across all venues, including some outside ones.

For example in Los Angeles this week temperatures are forecast to be about 15-28C.

Van Dijk said there should be flexibility.

"If it's really hot, obviously it would be good to put them (breaks) in," said the Liverpool defender.

"But I think you have to look at it in every game separately in my opinion."

Doha, Qatar: Almoez Ali is not looking too far ahead. As Qatar target a first-ever place in the FIFA World Cup knockout stage, Al Annabi’s all-time leading scorer insists belief must be matched by patience and focus.

“We are taking things one step at a time. Right now, our entire focus is on the next match against Canada. We do not want to get ahead of ourselves,” Almoez said on the sidelines of Qatar’s training session in Vancouver.

“We respect every opponent and understand that the road ahead is long and difficult, but we believe in our abilities and have faith in ourselves.”

Those words carry added weight after Qatar secured their first-ever World Cup point with a dramatic 1-1 draw against Group B favourites Switzerland.

Breel Embolo’s first-half penalty had put the Swiss on course for victory as they dominated proceedings and fired 26 shots at goal. But Al Annabi refused to wilt under pressure, staying in the contest through resilience and discipline before forcing a stoppage-time own goal by Miro Muheim under pressure from Boualem Khoukhi.

For Almoez, the draw offered more than a point.

“I think we achieved a positive result at the start of our World Cup campaign. Facing a strong team like Switzerland and coming away with a point is very important in a tournament of this magnitude,” he said.

“That match is behind us now, but the point we earned has given us great confidence and extra motivation to keep working and focus on what lies ahead.”

The striker, whose preparations for the tournament were disrupted by injury and surgery, believes Qatar’s response against Switzerland reflected qualities that had been missing.

“One of the biggest positives was the team spirit and tactical discipline we showed. Alhamdulillah, that spirit has returned after we had lost it recently,” Almoez said.

“Our fighting spirit is the result of long and hard work as a team. Every player understands the responsibility he carries. We represent an entire nation and people who expect a lot from us, so it was only natural that we fought for every ball and gave everything on the pitch.”

He also highlighted the role of goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada, who emerged as Qatar’s standout performers in only his seventh international appearance.

“Mahmoud delivered an outstanding performance. His saves came at crucial moments and helped the team enormously,” Almoez said.

“He is a goalkeeper with tremendous potential who works very hard in training, and what he produced against Switzerland was the natural result of that dedication.”

Qatar now head into another significant test against co-hosts Canada in Vancouver in the early hours of Friday (1am Qatar time), with all four Group B teams level on one point after Canada came from behind to draw 1-1 with Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Led by American coach Jesse Marsch, Canada boast stars like Alphonso Davies and Jonathan David and will enjoy strong backing from the home crowd.

“Canada are a very strong team with outstanding players. They will also be playing in front of their own fans, which gives them an advantage,” Almoez said.

“We have studied them closely, understand their strengths, and the coaching staff are preparing us accordingly.”

“I think their greatest strengths are their pace and the enthusiasm their supporters bring. They are a well-organised team with high technical quality, so we must maintain maximum concentration throughout the match.”

If Canada can count on home support, Qatar have already discovered the value of theirs in the opener in which they received massive support.

“It was an incredible feeling to see our supporters in the stands. I want to thank all the fans who travelled long distances to support the national team,” Almoez said.

“Seeing the Qatari flags, the thobes and the ghutras filled us with pride and honour. From the very first moment, we felt the fans were behind us wholeheartedly, and that had a huge impact on the players’ morale on the pitch.”

“The fans were a major presence throughout the match. In difficult moments, we drew energy from their encouragement and chants. When a player feels that people believe in him and support him, he gives everything he has. Our supporters were key partners in the result we achieved.”