The last-minute alcohol ban for stadiums is an example of the contradictions at the center of the World Cup.
There is a balance to be struck between delivering a successful tournament that is enjoyable for the fans and reassuring the Muslim population that they have not compromised on religious practices.
The last-minute change has caused confusion. Questions about the timing of the decision were raised.
The rest of the world knew that it was an odd choice to host the World Cup.
It has a lot to prove as a small Muslim nation with a strict way of living and big ambitions to be a serious broker in the sporting world.
The stadiums were controversial and expensive, but they could have been simpler to build, since they would have ensured fans were safe and enjoyed the football.
A friend of mine told me that he was concerned. This is the first time we've had something like this before. That's not a lot of people. All here at the same time. I don't know what that will be.
You'd be forgiven for not knowing what to expect if you're a football fan who's traveled at great expense. It's a different picture for the citizens of the country, who are proud of their country.
The leadership will stay true to the Muslim rules by banning alcohol sales.
There are questions about the consistency of the plan and why it wasn't demanded. Brazil's alcohol laws were changed for the World Cup.
It's not the main reason fans have traveled here, but it's part of the culture.
It's also a sign of the fine line that Qatar is walking: presenting itself as an outward-facing, welcoming country while maintaining its cultural, religious and conservative integrity.
Some people give predictions for the World Cup.
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