Clock ticks down as Qatar takes on Ecuador
The first World Cup to be held in the Arab world will kick off this Sunday when host nation Qatar face Ecuador at the Al-Bayt stadium in Al Khor.
The clock is ticking down on the opening match, almost 12 years since Qatar was awarded hosting rights for football’s showpiece tournament.
Qatar football side trained for the second consecutive day at Aspire Zone Training Facility yesterday, with head coach Felix Sanchez calling for fans’ support ahead of the Fifa World Cup opener on Sunday.
“I hope you will enjoy the World Cup in Qatar and you will support our team,” the head coach said in a video message before team’s training session yesterday. “We need your support and we will try to make you feel proud of the team.”
The reigning Asian champions underwent several drills during the training session as they prepare for their World Cup debut match against coach Gustavo Alfaro’s Ecuador, who landed in Doha early Wednesday.
The Qatar coach hoped the team will give a good show against Ecuador for a strong start in the tournament.
“We waited for a long time to get to this event. Obviously, everyone is looking forward to the tournament. We feel proud to be part of the event, and we will try to do our best, play at high levels, and compete with the teams we will face,” Sanchez said.
Qatar players were also excited, hoping to excel against tough teams like European giants Netherlands and African champions Senegal in Group A.
Seasoned midfielder Abdulaziz Hatem said the team is brimming with confidence before they begin their campaign.
“We have prepared well and our spirits are high. We are having fun. We are relishing this time as the World Cup approaches. I think everyone of us is very proud to be playing for the national team,” he said.
Qatar’s top goalkeeper Saad Al Sheeb said the team is ready to begin the tough challenge. “We are very proud to be representing our country in this prestigious tournament. The team is excited and ready and God willing, we will put up a good show,” he said.
Defender Bassam Al Rawi said home fans will be their strength during their matches. “These are exciting times for us and the fans. Everybody is excited before the first match and we are looking forward to a good show,” he added.