Alkass English
Asian champions Qatar are set to launch their campaign in the final Asian play-off stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers tomorrow against Oman at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium in Al Sadd.
The six-team play-off, divided into two groups of three, will determine Asia’s final direct qualifiers for the World Cup. Group winners will book their tickets to the 2026 tournament in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, while the second-placed sides will meet in a two-legged tie in November to decide who advances to the inter-confederation play-offs.
Doha will host the Group A matches featuring Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and Oman. Group B fixtures, taking place in Jeddah, will include Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Indonesia.
Under Spanish coach Julen Lopetegui, Qatar have been preparing intensively since the completion of the AFC Champions League Elite West second round, which saw Al Sadd, Al Duhail, and Al Gharafa in action. Lopetegui described the team’s preparations as “ideal,” stressing that the squad is determined to qualify for the World Cup despite the challenges posed by strong opponents Oman and the UAE.
The coach emphasized the importance of mental focus and full commitment, noting that some players are still recovering from minor injuries and may be doubtful for tomorrow’s encounter.
Qatar, champions of the last two AFC Asian Cups in 2019 and 2023, are aiming for their second-ever World Cup appearance following their debut as hosts in 2022. While they remain favourites to top their group, Lopetegui highlighted that success depends on performance on the day, urging his players to stay present and competitive.
Former national team star Abdulaziz Hassan expressed confidence in the squad’s experience and attacking depth, noting that playing in front of home fans will provide a strong boost. He praised forwards Akram Afif, Almoez Ali, and Edmilson for their ability to turn matches around, but cautioned that missed opportunities could be costly in a balanced group.
“The three Group A teams are evenly matched, and every point will count,” Hassan said.