A quiet Calm Before the Storm: PSG and Monaco Face Off in Doha
Doha basks in the warmth of the sun and pleasantly mild temperatures, an atmosphere of serene calm settling over the city. As 2025 unfolds,the fervor that engulfed Qatar’s capital during the 2022 world Cup feels like a distant memory,though echoes of the event still linger in certain corners. The metropolis, home to nearly 800,000 residents, which hosted the global football spectacle just over two years ago, prepares for a more intimate sporting event this Sunday afternoon (5:30 p.m.). Paris Saint-Germain and AS Monaco will clash in Doha for the Champions Trophy, the first silverware of the French football season, albeit one that has been considerably delayed.
While the two teams have been stationed in the Persian Gulf for several days, it’s clear that this encounter, awarding the season’s inaugural trophy, hasn’t captured the attention of most locals. The city, still basking in the afterglow of its World Cup triumph, seems to have shifted its focus elsewhere.
Has Doha Moved On? – A Conversation with Former French National Team Manager, Raymond Domenech
Welcome back, football fans! I’m your host, [Your Name], and today I’m joined by the legendary Raymond Domenech, former manager of the French national team. Raymond, thanks for joining me.
Raymond Domenech: It’s a pleasure to be here.
[Your Name]: Raymond, we’re talking today about the upcoming Champions trophy match between PSG and Monaco in Doha. The article painted a picture of doha as a city still basking in the afterglow of the 2022 World Cup, almost as if the excitement of hosting such a massive event has overshadowed this smaller, yet still significant, clash. Do you think that’s a fair assessment?
Raymond Domenech: You know, I understand the sentiment. The World Cup was truly a moment of national pride for Qatar. To host an event of that magnitude is no small feat, and the city clearly revelled in the energy and attention it brought. But football is a fickle mistress. the eyes of the world move on, and local attention naturally shifts as well.
[Your Name]: Exactly! It’s engaging to consider how a city can go from being fully immersed in a global spectacle to seemingly overlooking a highly anticipated match featuring two of France’s top clubs. What do you think this says about the impact of mega-events on local sporting culture?
Raymond Domenech: I think it raises a valid point about the balance between hosting global events and nurturing local interest.Perhaps the World Cup, for all its positives, overshadowed the importance of the domestic league and its cup competitions in the eyes of Qatar’s football fans.
[Your Name]: I see your point. It raises the question: does hosting a major international tournament, while exhilarating, potentially overshadow the progress and recognition of local sporting talent and events?
raymond Domenech: It’s a complex issue. A World Cup undoubtedly brings infrastructure development and investment in football. Though, it’s crucial that these benefits extend to the local game. Investing in youth academies, promoting grassroots football, and ensuring a lasting pathway for local players to reach the professional level are essential to maintain long-term interest and excitement for the sport.
[Your Name]: That’s an important outlook. Now, let’s talk about the match itself. PSG and Monaco are historically two very strong teams. What are your predictions for this Champions Trophy clash?
Raymond Domenech: It’s going to be a fascinating encounter. PSG boasts world-class talent, but Monaco always seems to rise to the occasion. This early-season fixture could be a springboard for either team.
[Your Name]: Absolutely! Now, this is a question for our readers. What do you think of this Champions Trophy match being held in Doha? Do you think it’s a good move for french football or a missed possibility to showcase the game in France? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Raymond Domenech: I think it’s a great opportunity to promote French football globally.
