FIFA WORLD CUP 2022 LIVE: Qatar v Ecuador updates; Valencia brace gives Ecuador first-half lead

There we have it. Qatar become the first host nation to lose an opening game at a World Cup, and Ecuador have an important three points. Thanks for joining us on Eurosport, be sure to join us in the coming days for even more LIVE World Cup action.

Rodriguez is also on for the South Americans, replacing Caicedo.

Estrada is replaced by Alan Franco.

This feels like I'm watching the Isthmian league. However, the home fans are still loving it.

The game is becoming fractured now, easing down as both sides accept the result.

Cifuentes sends a pass into the box for Plata, but Al Sheeb races out and gets there first. He takes a knock in the process, but is okay.

Ecuador break down the left through Sarmiento, whose pull-back is sent high and wide of the target by Cifuentes. The flag against the Brighton winger spares the visitors' blushes.

Afif is booked for a late challenge on Plata.

And off he comes! Jose Cifuentes replaces him.

He may well be the captain and on a hat-trick, but wouldn't it be wise for the Ecuadorians to look after their injured skipper Valencia and give him a rest ahead of the more important fixtures?

Caicedo is dropping between the two central defenders now for Ecuador to help control the game. Such an elegant, mature player in possession. The best player on the pitch, with the exception of the two-goal Valencia.

Mohammed Muntari is also on up top.

Al Haydos is replaced by Mohammed Waad.

Estupinan stands over the delivery, hanging it to the far post. Preciado wrestles for it, but it's cleared well.

Theoretically, Ecuador could go to a 4-2-4 in search of more goals, which are definitely available should they gun for the hosts. Those goals could well come in handy should the group come down to goal difference. However, they're content with sticking with their rigid 4-4-2 and controlling proceedings, happy with what they've already got.

Brighton winger Jeremy Sarmiento replaces Romario Ibarra on the left wing.

... from Qatar. There's no real identity. Are they playing long, short... who's making runs in behind, or are they going to feet? It's all very muddled.