The 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar is off to a flying start. However, the tournament has had its fair share of controversies. People around the world have criticized FIFA for ignoring accusations of human rights violations against the host country and awarding them the hosting right in the first place. Los Angeles Lakers legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was not one to shy away from talking about the issue.

Speaking about the whole event on his blog, Abdul-Jabbar bashed FIFA for its hypocrisy and its corruption, while also praising the United States National Men’s Team. The USMNT had a special training session that touched people across the world including Kareem.

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar shares thoughts on FIFA, lauds US Team

The USMNT has some of the most exciting young players at the World Cup. After failing to qualify for the 2018 World Cup, the team is back with a bang.

READ MORE: FIFA Qatar World Cup: USA vs. England- Predictions, Picks and Team News

While their results on the field have certainly impressed people across the world, their recent training session also received a lot of praise. The team played a friendly game with some migrant workers during one of their training sessions. Moreover, they also sported a rainbow flag on their crest in order to show their support for the LGBTQ+ community.

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Talking about the USMNT’s recent actions, Los Angeles Lakers legend and former NBA champion Kareem Abdul-Jabbar talked greatly about the team. 

Kareem wrote, “However, the U.S. team made our country proud when they joined other teams in training with groups of migrant construction workers. They also chose to use a rainbow flag on its crest in support of LGBTQ rights. That’s a win right there.”

The USMNT’s group-stage rivals England also met migrant workers during their training session ahead of their first game in the tournament. 

Wales holds the USMNT to a draw

The USMNT led by Christian Pulisic faced Wales for their opening game of the tournament. The match ended in a 1-1 draw with Timothy Weah and Gareth Bale scoring. 

Weah’s first-half goal gave the USMNT a good lead heading into halftime. However, they conceded a late penalty which was converted brilliantly by Bale. The USA take on England in their next group-stage match.

WATCH THIS STORY: From Training to Match Day- An Inside Look into Life as a USMNT Player

What are your predictions for the USMNT? Let us know in the comments down below.