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World Cup organizers defend Qatar residents as ‘real fans’

Argentinian fans hold up Argentina's player Lionel Messi pictures as they cheer at the corniche in Doha, Qatar, Friday, Nov. 11, 2022. Final preparations are being made for the soccer World Cup which starts on Nov. 20 when Qatar face Ecuador. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar)

England fans cheer at flag plaza in Doha, Qatar, Friday, Nov. 11, 2022. Final preparations are being made for the soccer World Cup which starts on Nov. 20 when Qatar face Ecuador. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar)

German fans cheer at flag plaza in Doha, Qatar, Friday, Nov. 11, 2022. Final preparations are being made for the soccer World Cup which starts on Nov. 20 when Qatar face Ecuador. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar)

World Cup organizers defend Qatar residents as ‘real fans’