Amjad Taha, a journalist and regional head of the British Center for Middle East Studies, claims that Qatar bribed Ecuadorian players to ensure Qatar's victory in the opening match of the 2022 World Cup.
"Qatar bribed eight Ecuadorian players for $7.4 million to lose the match (0-1, goal in the second half)," writes Taha on his personal social media page.
The journalist added that the information was confirmed by five sources from Qatar and Ecuador. Taha expressed hope that spreading the information would prevent the organization of a rigged match, and also called to oppose the fight against corruption in FIFA.
The first match of the Qatar World Cup between the host team of the tournament and Ecuador will take place on November 20 at 4 p.m. GMT. The teams' group A also includes Senegal and the Netherlands.
