Qatar\’s World Cup Kickoff

November 21, 2022

By: Carlos Alvarez

Qatar Becomes 1st Host Nation to Lose World Cup Opener

The 2022 FIFA World Cup is officially underway, and it began with a bit of history — both good and bad — on Sunday. Morgan Freeman and camel-riding soldiers kicked off the 2022 tournament with a memorable opening ceremony, but the first match was anything but memorable for the host nation. Qatar became the first host team in World Cup history to lose the opener when they fell to Ecuador (2-0) at Al Bayt Stadium. Enner Valencia netted both goals for the Ecuadorian side in the first half, and the Qatar squad failed to fire a shot on target. A big start to a month in Qatar, but a sad start for the hosts.

 

Watch: Ecuador Tops Qatar to Open World Cup (2-0)

 

USMNT Set to Kickoff

The United States Men’s National Team begins their 2022 World Cup campaign this afternoon against Wales. All four Group B clubs in the “group of death” are in action today with England and Iran set to kickoff this morning.

 

Today’s Schedule

England vs. Iran (8:00 am ET)

Senegal vs. Netherlands (11:00 am ET)

USA vs. Wales (2:00 pm ET)

 

Additional Storylines

USA Today: Qatar’s World Cup Legacy Will Be Horror Stories, Not Beautiful Stadiums

Yahoo! Sports: Tyler Adams Named USMNT Captain in Historic First for 2022 World Cup

 

Photo: Icon Sportswire / Getty Images