The 2022 FIFA World Cup is no short of news. After making the controversial decision to have no alcohol in the eight World Cup stadiums, the country has attached its name to an unwanted record.
Qatar, the host nation, become the first country to lose its opening game at the World Cup. Enner Valencia’s two goals in the first 30 minutes of the game became the ultimate difference as Ecuador beat the hosts Qatar 2-0 in the tournament opener at the iconic Al Bayt Stadium.
⏱ Ecuador take the points in our first game at #Qatar2022! @adidasfootball | #FIFAWorldCup
— FIFA World Cup (@FIFAWorldCup) November 20, 2022
“I would say we felt bad [for our supporters],” Qatar coach Felix Sanchez said. “I hope in the next game they will be prouder.”
Besides, Qatar was also in the line to have another foot-in-the-mouth moment. Ecuador striker Michael Estrada scored within the first 3 minutes of normal time. But the goal was cancelled as VAR called the goal “offside”.
The night started with more than 67,000 mostly Qatari fans filling the beautiful Al Bayt Stadium, enjoying an opening ceremony that showcased the tiny Arab emirate to a global audience 12 years after winning the right to host football’s biggest event. The night witnessed many high-profile celebrities in attendance including Morgan Freeman, FIFA president Gianni Infantino, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and K-pop boyband BTS’ singer Jungkook performing his song “Dreamer”.
