World Cup hosts Qatar lose 2-0 to Ecuador in tournament opener

Tuesday, 22 November 2022 00:55 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

AL KHOR, AFP: Host nation Qatar became the first World Cup hosts in history to lose their opening game of the tournament on Sunday, crashing to a 2-0 defeat to Ecuador as the football showpiece kicked off.

Two first-half goals from veteran striker Enner Valencia sealed a deserved Group A victory for Ecuador as Qatar’s first-ever World Cup finals match ended in disappointment.

Qatari fans began filing out of the Al Bayt Stadium long before the final whistle after a dominant display from the Ecuadorans.

Saka and Bellingham sparkle as England crush Iran