- | 5:15 pm
Qatar World Cup 2022 might kick off earlier than planned
Reports hint that FIFA agreed to start the tournament a day early to allow the host nation to kick-off the tournament against Ecuador
![](https://1661362760.rsc.cdn77.org/wp-content/uploads/42FCB23A-5CF9-43D7-8C60-7725F67FFCA1-1.jpeg)
While the world is making plans for the World Cup 2022, FIFA and Qatari organizers might have agreed to accommodate the host nationās request to play the first game. The opening ceremony and the first match between Qatar and Ecuador will be played on Sunday, November 20.
As per the original plan, a couple of matches between Senegal vs. Netherlands and England vs. Iran were scheduled to be played on November 21, ahead of the official inauguration. The third game between Wales and the United States was scheduled to start at 9 PM.
The change in the schedule is not expected to impact either of these three games. Instead, it fits in with the tradition of hosts or holdersā involvement in the opening match.
The alteration, however, will need to be approved by the Bureau of the FIFA Council and the six different continental confederations – UEFA, CONMEBOL, CONCACAF, CAF, AFC, and OFC. Reports hint that the switch is likely to be confirmed.
The upcoming World Cup 2022 is going to be one of the most important events to be held in the region. It has already accelerated growth in significant sectors of Qatarās economy, including travel and tourism, hospitality, and infrastructure.
It is expected that over a million people will come to Qatar during the World Cup generating approximately $18 billion for the country and, in turn, offering a fillip to Qatarās National Vision 2030.
Most Innovative Companies comes to the Middle East this October! ClickĀ hereĀ to know more.