FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022

Xavier Arreaga and Ecuador defeat Qatar 2-0 in FIFA World Cup 2022 opening match

Ecuador defeated FIFA World Cup 2022 host nation Qatar 2-0 in the opening match of the tournament on Sunday.

Seattle Sounders defender Xavier Arreaga made the matchday squad but was an unused substitute as La Tri comfortably defeated Qatar to open the group stage with three points.

Fenerbahçe forward Enner Valencia appeared to have gotten Ecuador off to a dream start when he scored in the third minute, only for the goal to be overturned by VAR. Valencia then bagged the opening goal of the match in the 16th minute when he drew a penalty and converted the ensuing spot kick. He then finished off his first-half brace in the 31st minute as he headed home a cross at the back post past Qatari goalkeeper Saad Al Sheeb.

Arreaga and Ecuador return to action on November 25 as they take on the Netherlands (8:00 a.m. PT | FOX).

Fellow Sounders Jordan Morris and Cristian Roldan will face off against Wales on Monday as the United States Men's National Team opens their World Cup campaign. Don't miss Sounders FC's official USMNT watch parties at the Armory at Seattle Center. You can find more information HERE.

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