Match Review Day 1: Valencia double sees Ecuador raise World Cup curtain in style

Catch up on all the action as Ecuador faced hosts Qatar in the opening match of the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Enner Valencia celebrates a goal for Ecuador at the FIFA World Cup

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Two goals from Enner Valencia ensured Ecuador opened their 2022 FIFA World Cup campaign victorious against Qatar.

Valencia was a constant threat at Al Bayt Stadium and found the back of the net as early as three minutes into the contest.

Match 1

Qatar v Ecuador

Ecuador’s ensuing celebrations were short-lived in the end, with the Video Assistant Referee deeming Valencia offside in the build-up after goalkeeper Saad Al Sheeb failed to deal with the high ball.

La Tricolor only had to wait 10 minutes before they’d test Al Sheeb again, with Valencia earning a penalty after being fouled inside the box after being brought down by the hosts’ shot-stopper.

The 33-year-old held his nerve from the spot to send Al Sheeb the wrong way and, 15 minutes later, he had his second.

Angelo Preciado’s cross was met with precision by the Fenerbahce forward, who displayed superb technique to double his side’s advantage and ensure they sit top of Group A after matchday 1.