Silence. Everyone gathered holds their breath. There is a collective gasp before the room erupts with cheers. Goal! This is a scene repeated in living rooms, bars and anywhere people come together where there is a television; in countries all over the world.

The FIFAThe Federation Internationale de Football Association is the world's highest governing body of association football. World Cup, hosted this year in QatarA small country on the Arabian Peninsula, bordering Saudi Arabia. Like its larger neighbour, it has experienced rapid economic development but maintained strict conservative religious codes., is set to be the biggest yet. Half of the planet will watch. And it is not just thrills and spills, it is seriously good for us too according to experts. Here are the top four ways:

Personal. This World Cup has been one of the most politically charged football tournaments in a long time. There has been controversy over LGBTQ+ and women's rights in the country as well as criticism over the deaths of migrant workers involved in the construction of the stadiums. Despite this the media coverage will raise awareness of the human rights issues surrounding the World Cup and could lead to some action to address the concerns whilst the eyes of the world are on Qatar. 

Social. Football has the power to bring people together. When people watch football together, their race, gender and age does not matter. This is never more true than during the World Cup.

Health. Football is good for your health. Not just playing it either. Researchers at the University of Leeds tracked three key factors while fans watched a game; heart rate, blood pressure and mood. The researchers found that the fans' heart rates elevated during the match to a similar level to that when going for a brisk walk.¹  

Economic. Football contributes significantly to the UK adding an estimated £7.6bn to the UK economy. This includes £3.6bn in taxes and creating 96,000 jobs. 

When times are hard, people need something to turn to. In the past, the majority of people turned to religion. Today, Terry EagletonA British literary theorist, born in 1943. argues that it is football, not religion, that distracts people from more serious, important social concerns.

Football has more fans than even the world's largest religions. For many, it is the main source of meaning and purpose in their lives. Football, with its rituals and saints, is the glue that holds them together; the embodiment of moral ideas.

Yes: Football brings people together, it has rituals, revered "saints" and even "cathedrals". As religion is waning people are looking for new opportunities to get together and celebrate their shared values.

No: Football can never replace religion. Although it may have similar trappings what it lacks is a moral code that guides its followers.

Or... Football and religion both have their places in society and are not mutually exclusive. They can both learn from each other.

Fifa - The Federation Internationale de Football Association is the world's highest governing body of association football.

Qatar - A small country on the Arabian Peninsula, bordering Saudi Arabia. Like its larger neighbour, it has experienced rapid economic development but maintained strict conservative religious codes.

Terry Eagleton - A British literary theorist, born in 1943.