The Curtains were raised on the FIFA World Cup at the Al – Bayt Stadium at Al-Khor in Qatar with a spectacular opening ceremony last night . Spectators from all over the globe were treated to a majestic ensemble of Qatari Arab Culture and International bigwigs as Qatar gave it its best shot to showcase a compelling inaugural function.
Morgan Freeman, the Narrator
Oscar winner and one of the World’s finest actors Morgan Freeman was the narrator as he spoke about unity, tolerance and inclusion of all communities and cultures in a segregated world, as he welcomed and extended his hand to the FIFA World Cup Ambassador suffering from a rare spinal disorder.
Jungkook steals the show
Singer Jungkook, a member of the K-Pop boy band BTS which has been a rage in the World performed onstage for the song ‘ Dreamers ‘, alongside Qatari singer Fahad Al-Kubaisi, amidst massive applause. Indeed the performance was riveting. The audiences were also entertained to Al-Ardha, the traditional sword dance.
La’eeb, the Super Skilled
It was then the turn of La’eeb, meaning ‘ super skilled ‘ in Arabic, the mascot of the World Cup. The giant endearing La’eeb welcomed all the other mascots of previously held World Cups in a wonderful presentation.
The World Cup Opens
Finally the 42 year old Emir of Qatar Tamin Bin Hamad Al Thani in a brief speech called for the world to set aside differences and come together as a unified community and declared the World Cup Open.
Qatar vs Ecuador : The Inaugural Match
The First match of the World Cup was played between the hosts Qatar and Ecuador in Group A. A much anticipated encounter particular for the locals who were anticipating a strong display from their national team. However a nervous Qatar appeared overawed by the huge occasion and were very slow starters. Ecuador sensing the opportunity attacked well particular through their captain and experienced striker Valencia.
A Real Stunner from Valencia
They earned a penalty in the 16th minute which Valencia converted with ease and then in the 31st minute a superb move from the right flank was too much for Qatar to handle. The pacy Ecuadorians playing in their fluid South American style moved quickly from the right, made a superb cross to find Valencia who headed the ball with brute power and accuracy to beat the Qatari Goalkeeper Saad Al Sheeb hands down. The header was nothing short of a thunder bolt. A real stunner.
Qatar overawed
Qatar tried its best to make a game out of it, but struggled to find any rhythm or momentum in their play. They improved in the second half, but hardly got a clear chance to score against a very impressive Ecuadorian defense . The game ended with a 2-0 victory for Ecuador leaving the locals disappointed. They had expected a much closer contest and with Netherlands and Senegal next to play, the road looks tough for Felix Sanchez’s Qatar.
Matches on Day 2
Day 2 has some exciting matches lined up. England take on Iran in a Group B clash, followed by Netherlands against Senegal ( they have been badly hit by the absence of Sadio Mane their captain and star player ) in Group A. The last match of the day will feature USA against Wales in Group B.
The World Cup is eventually underway with a power packed schedule over the next 4 weeks. So keep following rizkhan.in for regular updates.
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