As Qatar prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, they bring with them valuable experience following their recent participation in major tournaments, including the successful hosting of the 2022 World Cup and winning the Asian Cup in 2019 and 2023. The national squad is largely comprised of players from the Qatar Stars League, ensuring a cohesive team dynamic developed through multiple AFC cycles.
Qualification Details
Qatar qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup by triumphing in Group A during the AFC qualifying rounds. They had to navigate through challenging matches, ultimately achieving four points, including a crucial victory against the U.A.E..
Upcoming Matches
World Cup Group Stage Schedule:
- June 13: Qatar vs. Switzerland — San Francisco Bay Area Stadium, Santa Clara, California (3 p.m. ET)
- June 18: Qatar vs. Canada — BC Place, Vancouver, Canada (6 p.m. ET)
- June 24: Qatar vs. UEFA Playoff A (Wales, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Italy, Northern Ireland) — Seattle Stadium (3 p.m. ET)
Key Players
Qatar’s notable players include:
- Akram Afif, recognized as the team’s star, has earned multiple accolades such as AFC Player of the Year awards and significantly contributed to Al-Sadd’s successes.
- Almoez Ali, the all-time leading scorer for Qatar, who showcased his talent by earning the Golden Boot at the 2019 Asian Cup.
Team Management
Manager Julen Lopetegui boasts a robust background in both club and international football, having previously led Spain in the 2018 World Cup and managed top-tier teams like Porto and Real Madrid.
Achievements and Expectations
Though Qatar’s best World Cup performance to date ended in the group stage during their only previous appearance, their current team’s dynamics suggest potential advancements. The squad, popularly known as Al Annabi (The Maroons), will aim to leverage past experiences for a better showing in this tournament.
About Qatar:
- Population: approximately 3.1 million
- Capital: Doha
