The Qatar 2022 World Cup is finally here and the biggest tournament in world sport is finally upon us.
It's the first ever time the tournament takes place in the winter and the debut event in the Middle east. The controversial tournament will last just shortly of a month, with the final taking place at the Lusail Stadium on Sunday 18 December.
Many will be watching today's opening between Qatar and Ecuador to get a taste of what's to come before tomorrow marks the first day of a busy football schedule. Tomorrow, England and Wales kick-off their campaign against Iran and USA in Group B.
READ MORE: Is VAR being used at the World Cup 2022?
Ahead of today's World Cup opening, football.london brings you a look at Qatar and Ecuador's star players.
Qatar - Hassan Al-Haydos
Al-Haydos, 31, has made 160 caps for the Qatar national team after making his debut in August 2008. The nations most capped player has also scored 34 goals for his country and is certainly one of the key players for Felix Sanchez's side.
Born in Doha, Al-Haydos has spent his whole career with the countries most successful team, Al Sadd SC, where he has been involved in 142 goals in 304 appearances. He comes into the tournament on the back of scoring in Qatar's 2-2 draw with Chile back in September and will partner Akram Afif and Almoez Ali in attack.
Ecuador - Enner Valencia
Many may remember Valencia for his spell in the Premier League with West Ham and Everton between 2014 and 2017. The experienced striker scored 13 goals during his time in England before returning to Ecuador with CS Emelec.
Now at Fenerbahce, the 33-year-old is La Tri's leading man. Valencia has netted 35 goals in 74 appearances for his nation, including three World Cup goals after netting against Switzerland and Honduras (brace) in Brazil 2014. Should Ecuador navigate out of Group A, he will be key.
READ NEXT:
Full list of Arsenal players going to Qatar 2022 World Cup including Thomas Partey decision
Full list of Chelsea transfer targets going to Qatar 2022 World Cup amid Boehly scouting mission
Full list of Tottenham players going to Qatar 2022 World Cup as Eric Dier, Rodrigo Bentancur in
England World Cup fixtures 2022: UK kick-off times and knockout dates
World Cup 2022 supercomputer reveals England chances after Gareth Southgate announces squad
