- Qatar will face Ecuador in the opening game of the World Cup.
- There’s value on the Over here.
- Both teams should score, but I don’t expect a draw.
The FIFA World Cup kicks off with hosts Qatar facing off against Ecuador on Sunday, November 20, 2022.
While it’s not exactly a glamorous opening match, it’s intriguing, with neither team used to being in the spotlight.
Here’s what you need to know about the first match of this year’s World Cup.
Qatar vs Ecuador Prediction, World Cup:
The winning team model predicts Ecuador will win this Group A game with 61% confidence. The model also predicts a 26% chance of tie/draw.
OFFICIAL: Our 🇶🇦 national team will play Ecuador 🇪🇨 in the opening game of the FIFA World Cup #Qatar2022
— Qatar Football Association (@QFA_EN) April 1, 2022
¡Os esperamos @LaTri! pic.twitter.com/dTJOeyaD5x
Qatar vs. Ecuador Odds, Outrights, Over/Under
- Match Result: Qatar (+225) | Draw (+210) | Ecuador (+130)
- Draw No Bet: Qatar (+120) | Ecuador (-115)
- Over/Under Goals: Over 2.5 (+135) | Under 2.5 (-190)
Qatar vs. Ecuador Match Info
2022 World Cup — Group Stage (A)
Date: Sunday, Nov. 20, 2022
Time: 11:00 a.m. ET
Venue: Al Bayt Stadium, Qatar
Coverage: FOX
Qatar vs. Ecuador Analysis
It’s no surprise the odds heavily favor Ecuador, given how inexperienced Qatar is on the big stage. However, the hosts shouldn’t be written off, and there’s some value to be found between two teams that have only faced each other once before.
The odds are heavily juiced on the Under for this game. Opening World Cup matches tend to be low-scoring, as it’s a tense atmosphere with both teams learning to manage the pressure.
I don’t think this will be the case in this match, as both teams rely on their offense, and Qatar can be particularly vulnerable when they’re pressing for a goal.
Ecuador scored an astonishing 27 goals during qualifying, while Qatar had a hugely successful Gold Cup run, scoring 12 goals in four games.
There could very well be value in placing a bet on the Over.
Ecuador qualify for the 2022 World Cup after missing out in 2018 ✅ pic.twitter.com/CadZTD0Q8t
— GOAL (@goal) March 25, 2022
Ecuador is more experienced internationally, and they play direct, fast-paced soccer under manager Gustavo Alfaro.
On the other hand, Qatar will be playing their first World Cup, but they’re on home soil and will look to surprise soccer fans around the world. Most of Félix Sánchez’s team plays together at club level, and they work as a solid unit.
I see both teams scoring here, but I don’t think it will end in a draw.
Qatar vs. Ecuador Game Results Odds:
- Match Result: Ecuador (+130)
- Draw No Bet: Ecuador (-115)
- Both Teams to Score and Either Team to Win (+230)
- Over/Under Goals: Over 2.5 (+135)
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