Game 1: Al Asmakh 3 vs. Trags 0
Al Asmakh are newcomers to the Workers Cup, and they started off the tournament with a comfortable win over Trags. The debutants dominated the entire match, creating chance after chance. Their number 23, Shahuru Mosah, had an outstanding match, scoring the second and third goal and being awarded the Man of the Match award.
 
With this type of performance, Al Asmakh looks like they could go far in this tournament.
 
Game 2: Mowasalat 7 vs. Aalco group 0
 In an outstanding victory for one of the tournament favorites, Mowasalat showed their physical presence and put on an impressive show. The game could have been more one-sided for Aalco had it not been for their keeper.
 
Mowasalat’s number 10, Abduljalil, bagged two goals and assisted another two. Without a doubt, he was the top player and Man of the Match.
 
The game also had an attendance of over 250 spectators, cheering and singing for their teams, creating a great atmosphere all around.
 
 
Game 3: Outlook 2 vs Qatar Aviation Services 0
Last year’s finalists were clear favorites for this match. Although expected to win with a higher margin, QAS did put up a fight. Not only did they defend well, but they were also a threat going forward for the Workers Cup 2014 silver medal winners. QAS did have a few chances to get back into the game, but Outlook are well known for their solid defending that got them into the final last year.
 
Dipok Soar, assisting both goals, was the outstanding player of the match, using his creative passing technique and vision all over the pitch.
 
However, with this spirited performance, QAS could still be contenders to qualify from the group stages.
 
Game 4: Delta Doha 1 vs. Carilion 1
A quiet game from both sides, and a fair result.
 
Carillion could have won it with a last minute chance, by their magical Bihod Magar, but the shot was a few inches over the crossbar. Bihod was on the score sheet, and was pretty impressive throughout the match. Had his teammates been as active as he was, they could have earned all three points.
 
Game 5: Amana Contracting 2 vs HBK 0
The contracting giants both put on an impressive show. Amana’s experience in the tournament was the difference. Bronze medal winners in last year’s edition, experience gave them the edge over HBK. HBK had their quality players, but they needed more time to click, and will hope to get those precious points in their next two matches to go far in the tournament.
 
This match had over 300 spectators, making enough noise to keep their players motivated till the very last minute.
 
An early contender for man of the tournament, Kevin Kamu netted both goals for Amana. Fast, creative, and a physically tough player, he will be one to keep an eye on throughout the tournament.
 
Game 6:  Midmic 7 vs Byrne 0
A massive result for Midmac. Without a doubt a team that can go far in the competition. Byrne barely crossed the half way line, just trying to defend against an all out attacking team. Midmac won’t be a team that anyone would want to face with this showing.
 
Number 7 Gideon Domfeh, bagging the only hat trick of the first day of the tournament, also assisted another two goals. An easy contender for the Top Scorer Award if he keeps up this performance level.
 
 
Game 7:  Regency Security 1 vs Dico Tech 1
The afternoon kick-off was another interesting game. Having the majority of possession throughout the match, Regency took the lead with a penalty in the 20^th minute. Converted by Akim, they looked like the comfortable winners of this match. Man of the Match, Dico Tech’s number 4 Shree Ram, scored late in the match. But Shree Ram, who was by far Dico Tech’s best player, earned his team that precious point with a late goal.
 
 Game 8: Gulf Contracting Co. 3 vs ETA Star 0
The much-anticipated game everybody was waiting for. Played in front of more than 5500 spectators, the opening match was the most intense and physical game of match day 1. The game was played after the opening ceremony that took place at Al Gharafa Sports Club stadium.
 
GCC were favorites for the match, and were able to convert their chances. ETA did all they could to defend against the physical team of GCC, but were unable to stop them, as the attacks came from both flanks.
 
The match ended 1-0 in the first half, with ETA not having any shots on goal. Supported by their cheering fans, the players got quite physical with three yellow cards handed out.
 
The second half was all GCC, with chance after chance. ETA’s tired legs showed in the second half. GCC were obviously more prepared for this match and the tournament, and fully deserved the three points.
 
Muzu scored the first goal with a beautiful shot from inside of the box, and assisted the second goal for number 14, Douglas.
 
In 2014, GCC were unlucky to lose on penalties in the semis, then losing to Amana for the third/fourth place. Due to that experience, organization, and hunger for this tournament, they are surely one of the favorites of the tournament. Supported by the largest fan base, GCC are real contenders to go all the way in the 2015 Workers Cup.