The 2022 FIFA World Cup kicked off with a surprise as hosts Qatar fell 0-2 to Ecuador in the tournament opener on November 21, 2022. Ecuador's veteran striker Enner Valencia was the hero, scoring both goals to dampen the host nation's celebration. Valencia opened the scoring from the penalty spot in the 16th minute after being fouled by Qatar's goalkeeper, and he doubled the lead with a powerful header just after the half-hour mark. Qatar, making their World Cup debut, struggled to cope with Ecuador's physicality and organization, failing to register a single shot on target. The result marked the first time a host nation had lost its opening match in World Cup history, putting immediate pressure on Qatar's campaign while giving Ecuador a perfect start in Group A.