Enner Valencia scored two first-half goals as Ecuador beat hosts Qatar 2-0 in the opening match of the FIFA World Cup on Sunday.

The result marked the first time that a host team has lost the opening game of the World Cup.

Even without a home team to cheer for, Chinese fans and enterprises remain enthusiastic about the Qatar World Cup.Support from China has also come in a more concrete way, with most of the tournament's stadiums, its official transportation system and its accommodation facilities featuring contributions from Chinese builders and providers.

"The quadrennial soccer carnival is kicking off! Chinese elements are spotted all over the place at Qatar World Cup 2022."

The 80,000-seat Lusail Stadium, which is scheduled to host the eye-catching final game, was designed and built by China Railway International Group with advanced energy-saving technologies and sustainable materials.

Doha's first ever Panda House officially opened to the public on Thursday.

Located at Al Khor Park near the Al Bayt Stadium, the Panda House is home to Chinese giant pandas, three-year-old female Si Hai and four-year-old male Jing Jing.

Chinese referee Ma Ning and two assistant referees, Cao Yi and Shi Xiang, have been appointed to judge at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, according to a list released by FIFA.

From national flags to ornaments and pillows emblazoned with images of the World Cup trophy, products made in Yiwu, China's small commodity hub, have enjoyed nearly 70 percent of the market share of World Cup merchandise, according to the Yiwu Sports Goods Association.