Finally...it begins. The first World Cup to be held in winter in an Asian country is a fact. The premiere takes place today at 18:00 Greek time and is televised by ANT1 (the free channel).
Qatar – Ecuador
Stadium: Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor
Tradition: Qatar have faced Ecuador on three previous occasions, which involved friendly games. The pair met twice in 1996, with the first match ending 1-1 and the second ending 2-1 in favor of the South Americans. In their third meeting, in 2018, Qatar prevailed 4-3.
Interesting information
*In 13 of the previous 21 World Cups, the hosts have reached the semi-finals.
*Qatar won their first major continental tournament, the 2019 Asian Cup, beating Japan 3-1 in the final
*Ecuador will be participating in their fourth World Cup - having previously taken part in 2002, 2006 and 2014, although this will be the first time they face a non-European side in their opening game of the tournament
*Ecuador's best run to date was in 2006 when they reached the round of 16
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Technical Statements:
Felix Sanchez, Qatar coach
"We will be facing teams that have played in World Cup finals and won the CAF Africa Cup of Nations. They have a lot of players who are the best in the world in their position and have World Cup and UEFA Champions League experience."
Gustavo Alfaro, coach of Ecuador
"I asked the team: What do you want? Are you here just to just take part in a World Cup or do you want to show the best of Ecuador?"
Racing News
Akram Afif did not start in Qatar's last pre-World Cup friendly against Albania but all indications are that he will start.
Three Ecuador players – Sarmiento, Grueso and Arbolenda have been dealing with injuries in the last month, but all are included in the squad.
Possible tips:
Qatar: (5-3-2): Al-Sheeb – Ro-Ro, Al-Rawi, Salman, Hassan, Ahmed – Hatem, Boudiaf, Al-Haidos – Ali, Afif
Ecuador: (4-3-3): Dominguez – Estupinian, Torres, Hincapier, Palacios – Grueso, Moises Caicedo, Sifuentes – Plata, Valencia, Ibarra
Qatar - Ecuador betting predictions
Tradition wants the hosts to count 3 wins and 2006 draw from 2018 to XNUMX, which gives (as well as the packed home) a psychological advantage in Qatar.
However, the balance between the two teams is tipped in Ecuador's favor. A team with players with performances from top leagues, impressive run on the pitches of South America against countries such as Brazil (1-1) and Argentina (1-1).
The game is likely to be decided at the limit, with the under being fairly given at prices close to 1.50. The Bet X2+under2.5 combo is interesting. This will be our proposal that is offered at odds of 1.91 on Betshop.
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