There is a long-standing tradition of marking the start of FIFA World Cup with an Opening Ceremony on the occasion of the first match featuring either the hosts or the defending champions.
And the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 is no exception, with the host country taking on Ecuador at the Al Bayt Stadium on November 20, 2022.
The Opening Ceremony and match were brought forward by one day as a standalone event and the change ensures the continuity of tradition.
It will be an even greater celebration for local and international fans when host country Qatar face Ecuador.
The decision was taken unanimously by FIFA following an assessment of the competition and operational implications, as well as a thorough consultation process and an agreement with key stakeholders and the host country.
In the earlier schedule, Senegal were to play the Netherlands in the lung opener on November 21. However, that match was rescheduled to be kicked off at 7pm as the second game on November 21.
England vs Iran (4pm) and USA vs Wales (10pm) are the other fixtures on November 21.
