Doha: Finally, after years of preparation, debutants Qatar will begin their first-ever FIFA World Cup campaign on home soil. Despite all the years of hard work put in by the hosts, they will be up against Ecuador, who have participated in the last three editions.
Though Ecuador start favourites, Qatar will try to take a leaf out of their friendlies against their South American opponents. Both have locked horns on three occasions, and have been even-stevens contestants. In 1996, they faced off twice with the first match ending in 1-1 draw and the second going Ecuador's way 2-1.
