Both Qatar and Saudi Arabia clinched their spots in the upcoming World Cup on Tuesday after leading their groups through the fourth round of Asian qualifying.
Qatar triumphed over the United Arab Emirates 2-1, while Saudi Arabia managed a goalless draw with Iraq.
This marks a significant achievement for Qatar, which previously failed to win a match during its home World Cup in 2022. Saudi Arabia will send a team to the World Cup for the seventh time next summer in North America.
“It’s amazing, an incredible day,” Qatar’s coach Julen Lopetegui expressed in an interview with beIN Sports.
“It’s amazing, an incredible day,” said Julen Lopetegui.
Having faced hardships in his career, Lopetegui was previously dismissed from his position with Spain just before the 2018 World Cup after agreeing to manage Real Madrid.
“For me, it’s one of the best days in my career. Today is a significant achievement we must celebrate,” he added.
“For me, it’s one of the best days in my career,” Lopetegui said.
Qatar’s victory placed them at the top of Group A, ahead of the UAE, which moves on to a playoff against Iraq next month. Oman was knocked out after finishing third in the group.
During the match, Qatar had a close call in the first half when Mohammed Al-Mannai’s header veered narrowly off target. Boualem Khoukhi broke the deadlock early in the second half, converting a free kick from Akram Afif. With just 17 minutes to go, Afif assisted Pedro Miguel for a headed goal at the far post.
Late in the match, Qatar’s Tarek Salman received a red card, reducing them to 10 players. The UAE managed to score late through Sultan Adil, triggering a tense finish as they had needed just a draw to advance.
Meanwhile, after overcoming Indonesia in their previous match, Saudi Arabia secured the draw they needed, even as they maintained most possession against Iraq.
Both Japan and South Korea, already holding World Cup spots, won friendlies against South American teams. Japan triumphed 3-2 over Brazil, achieving their first victory against them after lagging behind by two goals, while South Korea claimed a 2-0 win over Paraguay.
Reporting by The Associated Press.
