Guardian Weekly

Behind the World Cup sheen: debt and squalor

When Qatar’s national football team kicks off the World Cup finals against Ecuador at Al Bayt stadium on 20 November, fans watching around the world will get their first glimpse of a stunning 60,000-seat arena built to resemble a nomadic tent.

The stadium, arguably Qatar’s finest, will host matches through to the semi-finals, including group stage games involving the likes of England, Germany, Spain and the Netherlands.

Just as impressive is the pristine park surrounding the stadium. Manicured lawns are dotted with fountains, streams and a lake. Ducks

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