TheCable

Qatar became the first side to be eliminated from the 2022 FIFA World Cup on Day 6 after the host nation bowed out following a 1-1 draw between the Netherlands and Ecuador in Group A.

Here are five major talking points from Day 6.

Host nation out after second defeat

The 2019 Asian Cup winners lost their opening game 2-0 to Ecuador last Sunday. The Felix Sanchez boys were then beaten 3-1 by the Terenga Lions of Senegal on Friday evening to become the first host nation to lose two matches in a single group round.

The defeats also placed Qatar as the third host nation to have conceded three goals in a single group stage match — after South Africa and Russia lost by the same goal margins to Uruguay in 2010 and 2018 respectively.

Gareth Southgate goes pragmatic

It takes an intelligent coach to get the best out of the talented England squad and Southgate has always been known for his pragmatic ways of approaching games. The England boss, however, showed why he doesn’t get the support of some Three Lions fans with his selections and substitutions which were apparently faulty.

Bukayo Saka, Kieran Trippier, Jude Bellingham, Harry Kane, and Raheem Sterling failed to live up to expectations but Southgate appeared to be afraid to change the shape of his team which made the Three Lions end up earning a point against the United States.

Ernesto Valencia keeps scoring

In Ecuador’s first game against Qatar, Ernesto Valencia proved his mettle with a brace. With the South Americans needing inspiration when they were down to the Netherlands, the Fenerbahce forwarder also popped up with the leveler which proved crucial for Ecuador.

Joy for Africa

African sides had failed to secure three points in the competition. But Senegal gave fans something to cheer about with a victory over Qatar.

Boulaye Dia, Famara Diedhiou, and Bamba Dieng netted one each to lead a superior Senegal to their first win in the 2022 World Cup, defeating Qatar 3-1 at the Al Thumama Stadium.

Iran always bangs the goals

The Carlos Queiroz-managed Iran side scored two goals against England and also showed their attacking qualities when they faced Wales.

Rouzbeh Cheshmi struck from distance to brilliantly give Iran the lead in the 98th minute as Ramin Rezaeian sealed the win in the 101st minute, securing Iran its first points of the tournament and a chance of advancing to the next round.