World Cup 2022: We know why Senegal-Netherlands in the opening match and not Qatar! – Eleven of Afrik

While tradition dictates that the host country plays the opening match of the World Cup, the next edition in Qatar will see Senegal and the Netherlands open the ball. A decision announced by the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA) during the draw for the group stage this Friday.

According to information from The Telegraph, the host country has reportedly asked world football’s governing body to move its match with Ecuador to 5pm GMT to get more of an audience when it kicks off the opening ceremony. The fireworks would also be less spectacular in broad daylight, adds the British media.

The opening match will therefore be played between Senegal and the Netherlands at Al Thumama Stadium in Doha, Qatar at Al Bayt Stadium on November 21 from 10:00 GMT.