GIFT THAT KEEPS ON GIVING

Qatar have cashed in hosting bonus under boss Lopetegui

- FROM JEREMY CROSS in Houston

QATAR had Sepp Blatter and Gianni Infantino to thank for them being able to make their World Cup debut in 2022.

The FIFA presidents allowed their organisation to gift Qatar the privilege of hosting the tournament.

It did not turn out well, as they became the first host nation to finish pointless and bottom of their group.

But the embarrassment went on to become a blessing in disguise. Fast forward to this World Cup, and the Qataris are in the big time again - this time on merit, in part due to a former Premier League manager.

Instead of accepting the most lucrative invitation in football, Qatar have earned their right to rub shoulders with the cream of international football in North America.

The experience of four years ago proved a game-changing moment for football in the Arabian state.