Pop and pomp as World Cup kicks off but Qatar poor in Ecuador loss

DOHA: The 2022 FIFA World Cup kicked off with an opening ceremony of pop and pomp, but a poor performance from host nation Qatar spoiled celebrations on Sunday (Nov 20).

At the Al Bayt stadium in Al Khor, a double from Fenerbache striker Enner Valencia gave Ecuador the three points and the top spot in Group A.

The 0-2 defeat marked the first time a host nation has lost their opening game at the World Cup.

Qatar will next face Senegal on Nov 25, while Ecuador will go up against Netherlands.

It was a night which promised much for Qatar, who were making their World Cup debut.

And there was a buzz as early as three hours before kickoff, as fans slowly streamed into the stadium, a 60,000 seater arena resembling a giant tent.

The tournament’s 30 minute opening ceremony was headlined by BTS’ Jungkook.

Actor Morgan Freeman added extra starpower to proceedings as he featured in and narrated the opening act alongside Ghanim al Muftah, a Qatari who was born with a condition that impairs the development of the lower spine.

Next up was a segment featuring chants of the various World Cup nations, and opened by a traditional Qatar dance, the Ardha.

A medley of World Cup anthems including Shakira’s hit “Waka Waka” boomed as mascots from past World Cups pranced on centre-stage.

And there were cheers for tournament mascot La’eeb as the white soccer-playing turban unfurled before K-pop star Jungkook belted out his catchy new single Dreamers.

Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the Emir of Qatar then delivered a short speech in Arabic before fireworks painted the evening sky.

The decision to award Qatar hosting rights for the 2022 World Cup has been marred by controversy, with allegations of corruption and human rights violations, since it was first