The 2022 World Cup will now begin on Sunday, November 20, as opposed to Monday, November 21, as originally scheduled, according to FIFA.

Senegal's match against the Netherlands has been replaced with a match between the host nation, Qatar, and Ecuador as the opening match.

As a result, the competition will last for an additional 29 days, with the championship match taking place on Sunday, December 18.

On Thursday, this was officially confirmed by FIFA in a unanimous decision made by a committee made up of Gianni Infantino, the president of FIFA, and the heads of the six continental soccer associations.

“The change ensures the continuity of a long-standing tradition of marking the start of the FIFA World Cup with an opening ceremony on the occasion of the first match featuring either the hosts or the defending champions."

“The decision follows an assessment of the competition and operational implications, as well as a thorough consultation process and an agreement with key stakeholders and the host country,” FIFA said in a statement.