28 Jul 2010 | 14:46 SAST

Qatar confident over bid

Qatar is optimistic of its chances of securing the 2022 World Cup as a FIFA inspection of the country begins on Wednesday

Despite summer temperatures of 100 degrees and above, the Middle Eastern nation believes its state-of-the-art, air-conditioned stadiums will win over officials.

Other aspects of its big-money bid include vastly improved transport systems.

Its main rivals for the 2022 competition are Japan, South Korea, the USA and Australia.

The bid's Chief Executive, Hassan Al Thawaidi, said: "What I like to say is this: I am optimistic, I am very, very optimistic,.

"We have made great strides over the past year and a half since we submitted our bid registration... I think it will be a close call."

Fifa delegates will inspect facilities in Qatar following visits to Japan, South Korea and Australia.

If it does land the 2022 tournament, it will be the first nation in the Middle East to host a World Cup.

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