The FIFA World Cup is one of the most anticipated events in the field of sports. It is also the biggest single-event sporting competition in the world. Held once every four years, football fans across the globe follow the gaming action live, watch their favorite players vie on field and witness new records being set.
Fédération Internationale de Football Association is the international governing body for football. The first inaugural tournament was held in 1930. The 20th edition of the FIFA World Cup is slated for 12th June 2014. The South American country, Brazil will play host for the 2014 games. This is the second time Brazil has been chosen to organize the game. Not only this, they have won the title five times and are the only team to have qualified for every tournament since its inception. The next two world cups will be held in Russia (2018) and Qatar (2022).
32 Teams to Participate
32 teams from across five different continents and confederations will battle it out in Brazil for what is the most coveted football competition title. The list of 32 teams is ALGERIA, Cameroon, Australia, Iran, Ecuador, Greece, South Korea, Honduras, Switzerland, Ghana, Costa Rica, USA, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Cote d’Ivoire, Mexico, Japan, Nigeria, Chile, Russia, France, Portugal, Netherlands, Croatia, England, Belgium, Uruguay, Colombia, Italy, Argentina, Germany, Spain and Brazil. The armadillo Fuleco is the official mascot of the game.
Game Format
The tournament lasts for a month; this time from 12th June to 13th July. As already stated above, it is held among 32 teams. These 32 teams are chosen after several qualifying matches held in the preceding three years. The qualifying matches are called the World Cup 2022 matches competition. The Final competition phase in held between the 32 teams. The games during the final competition phase are held at various venues within the host nation.
“We Are One” – The Official 2014 World Cup Song
Every FIFA World Cup is incomplete without an official song. It has given us several hits over the years including Ricky Martin’s “The Cup of Life” and Shakira’s foot-tapping “Waka Waka”. Brazil has earned the moniker “Land of Music” on account for its love for music. As a result, football and music fans alike are looking forward to a musical masterpiece – a blend of pop culture and the infamous Brazilian beats.
The latest news from FIFA’s information desk states that the official song for the 2014 soccer World Cup will be composed and sung by American rapper Pitbull and songstress Jennifer Lopez. The song is titled “We Are One” (Ole Ola). There will also be a live performance by Brazilian performer Claudia Leitte. She will perform on stage alongside Pitbull and Jennifer Lopez on 12th June at Sao Paulo. They have hinted at a Samba dance performance. The video once released will be available on YouTube for public viewing. Sony is the official releaser and partner in the song.