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Okocha Says Air Conditioner In Stadium Might Have Affected Qatar Players

Published

1 year ago

November 21, 2022

Former Premier League superstar Jay-Jay Okocha has explained that the air conditioner at the Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor, might have affected players of the Qatar national team.

Qatar on Sunday, 20 November, began their campaign at the 2022 World Cup on a losing note when they were hammered 2-0 by Ecuador in the opening game of the competition. Enner Valencia netted the two goals that condemned Qatar to a defeat in front of their fans.

Okocha who has also played at the World Cup while representing Nigeria worked as a pundit on the match-day and suggested what could have affected the Qatari players. The Super Eagles legend also explained that Qatar did not fight well in their match against Ecuador according to the report on Daily Post.

Statement made by Okocha “They did a professional job. They got the three points…needed, but in my opinion, Qatar made it a lot easier for them.

“I don’t know if the pressure was a bit much on them during the first half or maybe the air conditioner might have affected the players because they are used to playing in the heat, but you have to give credit to Ecuador because it’s not easy to play against the host and they got the job done.”

Earlier, Sports Brief had reported how Enner Valencia scored the maiden goal of the 2022 FIFA World Cup however his joy was shortlived as referee Daniel Orsato ruled the goal out for offside. The former West Ham United and Everton striker took advantage of a dodgy defending by the Qatari defence to head home from close range.

The Ecuador skipper who celebrated with his teammates saw his effort ruled out after a VAR review. The initial decision left eagle-eyed football fans dumbfounded however with the aid of cutting-edge technology via the VAR, it proved to be the perfect decision.

Valencia was marginally offside before slotting home from close range as revealed by the technology. Ecuador marksman Enner Valencia was once involved in an incident that was so unbelievable, that one could only fathom it.