Alkass English
Qatar is preparing to host the second edition of the FIFA Arab Cup from December 1 to 18, 2025, with FIFA President Gianni Infantino praising the country’s world-class hospitality and infrastructure. He described the FIFA World Cup 2022 as the best ever and highlighted Qatar’s successful hosting of the first Arab Cup a year earlier, expressing full confidence that the nation will once again deliver an exceptional tournament.
The 2025 competition will feature 23 teams from across the Arab world, with matches played in six FIFA World Cup 2022 stadiums, all seamlessly connected by public transport. The format will see 16 teams in the group stage, divided into four groups of four, with the top two advancing to the knockout rounds. Hosts Qatar and defending champions Algeria are among the nine teams already qualified, while the remaining 14 teams will compete in qualifiers on November 25 and 26 for the last seven spots. The final is set for December 18 at Lusail Stadium, coinciding with Qatar National Day.
Minister of Sports and Youth and Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, HE Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed Al Thani, said the Arab Cup is more than just football, describing it as a celebration of passion, unity, and identity that reflects the region’s deep cultural ties. Algerian striker Baghdad Bounedjah, who lifted the 2021 trophy with his team, recalled the pride of winning in Qatar’s World Cup stadiums, calling it a surreal moment for players and fans alike. The Arab Cup will take place shortly after the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025, scheduled for November 3 to 27, further underlining Qatar’s growing reputation as a hub for world football.