Sunday’s opening World Cup match between Ecuador and Qatar was not entirely exciting on the field.
Two days after it was revealed that the sale of beer containing alcohol would be prohibited in eight World Cup stadiums, Ecuador fans appeared to scream “Queremos cerveza, queremos cerveza!” or “We want beer!” as their team defeated Qatar 2-0.
Qatar, the host nation, adheres to Wahhabism, a conservative strain of Islam that prohibits the purchase and drinking of alcohol; yet, hotel bars have provided it for years.
However, nonalcoholic beer will still be available at the game.
As for the game itself, Ecuador could not have fared better.
Ecuador appeared to score the tournament’s first goal in the third minute, but it was disallowed owing to a contentious offsides call that was caused by VAR. However, Ecuador’s first goal would come from a penalty kick by veteran striker Enner Valencia, who had been fouled by Qatari goalkeeper Saif Al Sheeb.
Angelo Preciado’s exquisite cross was headed in by Valencia’s second scorer before the halftime whistle, putting Valencia up 2-0.
“I had several dreams of winning this opening match. “It was a dream come true that I was able to score and help my team win the game,” Valencia remarked. “We were able to score two quick goals, which helped us gain control of the game and win three points. We believe that we can travel far and do well.”
The three points earned by Ecuador place them atop Group A for the time being. Monday will include matches between Senegal and the Netherlands, the other two teams in Group A.