FIFA praise joint World cup bid from Spain and Portugal

The head of Fifa's inspection team has revealed Spain and Portugal have a strong chance of being elected as World Cup host.

The two countries have both hosted major football tournaments separately, but have entered a joint bid to stage the World Cup in either 2018 or 2022, for which Fifa are currently undertaking their inspection programme.

Fifa inspection delegation head Harold Mayne-Nicholls has promised the joint Iberian bid a 'very positive' report after wrapping up the four-day inspection.

"The Iberian bid has many chances of being elected to organise the football World Cup in 2018 or 2022," he said.

"Our report is going to be very positive because we have observed that they have a great sport, hotel and transport infrastructure, as well as a strong support from their political and sports authorities."

After concluding the inspection in Lisbon at Benfica's 65,647-capacity Estadio da Luz, Mayne-Nicholls branded the bid's stadiums as the 'ideal sceneries for millions of sports people who follow football on a permanent basis'.

The Chilean Football Federation president also drew upon the close co-operation between the neighbouring nations, adding: "We are sure that the coordination on a state level which would be necessary if the World Cup came to the Iberian Peninsula is fully guaranteed."

Join the conversation on

Tribalfootball Store

Holland Away Replica World Cup Football Shirt. Made by Nike Colour White

£19.99 Buy

England World Cup Ticket T-Shirt Made By Umbro Classic cut crew neck t-shirt, 100% Cotton Colour White

£1.99 Buy

France will be aiming to achieve their third European Champions title in 2012 and looking to banish the disappointment surrounding the previous World Cup campaign in 2010.

£89.99 Buy

CTR360 Libretto II FG Football Boots.

£19.99 Buy

Adi 5 II Astro Turf /3G Football Trainer Made by Adidas Official Kit Manufacturer for Liverpool FC. The Adi 5 II range have been designed to perform at their best on astro turf surfaces.

£29.99 Buy

Tiempo Natural IV SG Football Boots Made By Nike > Laces with Single Pro tongue > Shaped ankle, Padded Collar > Nike swoosh >Synthetic upper and sole, Synthetic/Textile inner > Classic 6 Stud configer

£29.99 Buy

Traditionally a stronghold of European football, Sweden reached their pinnacle to date in 1994 by finishing third at the World Cup.

£44.99 Buy

Runners-up in 2008, Germany are already the most successful team in European Championship history and will be looking to add a fourth title at Euro 2012.

£59.99 Buy