FIFA meets for likely Cup switch

European bodies prepare to voice their disapproval of Nov-Dec timetable

Global soccer executives will fly into Qatar this week to conclude discussions on when the 2022 World Cup should be played. The outcome already seems clear: soccer's biggest event will be played in November and December for the first time unless FIFA unexpectedly gives in to European opposition.

In Doha on Tuesday, powerbrokers from Europe's clubs and leagues on FIFA's Qatar task force will once again spell out the disruption that would be created by splitting their August-May seasons. But with the final scheduling decision resting with FIFA's executive committee, it seems unlikely president Sepp Blatter's desire for November-December will be overruled.