A few minutes after a brilliant opening ceremony, Qatar sank in the inaugural match of the 2022 World Cup. In front of its public, the host country was not up to the task and fell against Ecuador (0-2).
Historic night! Twenty years after the World Cup was co-hosted by Japan and South Korea, Asia welcomes the top footballers for the 25th edition of the World Cup. The host country, Qatar, made a real show of strength for the opening ceremony with a grandiose sound and light show. If the organizers were at the level, we can not say the same for the selection that plays the first game of its history in the competition.
The Qataris were hardly a threat to Ecuador in this match. They were simply outclassed by the South Americans and their experienced striker Enner Valencia. The 33-year-old, after seeing his first goal disallowed for a questionable offside, opened the scoring in the 16th minute from the penalty spot. He doubled the score in the 31st minute. This double gives Ecuador a valuable 2-0 victory since nothing will be scored in the second half. The striker and captain was substituted in the second half following an injury.
A huge disappointment for the host who have gone into history for the wrong reasons. Qatar is the first host nation to be beaten on the opening game of the FIFA World Cup.
⏱ Ecuador take the points in our first game at #Qatar2022! @adidasfootball | #FIFAWorldCup
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) November 20, 2022
In this group A, Senegal and the Netherlands will face each other tomorrow Monday at 4 pm. For the second day on Friday, Qatar will face the Lions of Teranga while Ecuador will meet the Dutch.
