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Ecuador comprehensively defeated Qatar 2-0 in the opening match of the FIFA World Cup at the Al Bayt Stadium on Sunday.
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From the first moments, Qatar made a disappointing start to their World Cup campaign and became the first host country to lose their opening game.
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Coach Felix Sanchez-led team went into the first-half break two goals down as
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Enner Valencia netted first from the penalty spot and then with a header to put Ecuador in complete control.
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Qatar’s debut began in inauspicious fashion, as Ecuador had the ball in their net inside three minutes.
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However, after a lengthy review from the VAR team, Valencia’s goal was ruled out, much to the bemusement of Ecuador’s players.
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Fans were also left puzzled as no explanation was given at the time but a subsequent replay
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showed that Michael Estrada’s foot and knee were marginally offside during the build-up.
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The first-half break did not bring a marked change in Qatar’s fortunes, with Ecuador still carrying a real threat after the restart
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