KATHMANDU: Qatar became the first host nation to open its FIFA World Cup campaign with a defeat as it lost to Ecuador 0-2 in the opening match of the 2022 FIFA World Cup on Sunday.
Veteran striker Enner Valencia gave the South American side the lead from the spot in the 16th minute. He headed home from the center of the box for his and his side’s second, utilizing a beautiful cross by Angelo Preciado 15 minutes later.
Valencia’s early strike was ruled offside by VAR.
The two sides played a dull second half with many Qatari supporters leaving the ground early.
Qatar made five shots on the goal compared to Ecuador’s six, but the visitors were far more clinical.
Today’s Matches
Group B
England vs Iran (6:45 pm)
Group A
Sengal vs Netherlands (9:45 pm)
Group B
USA vs Wales (00:45 am)