DOHA: Qatar begin their quest for Arab Cup glory on Monday against Palestine at Al Bayt Stadium in the opening match of the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025, in Group A alongside Tunisia and Syria.
Qatar enter the tournament seeking their first Arab Cup title in their fourth appearance, after finishing runners-up in 1998, third in 2021 and fourth on their debut in 1985. The team comes into the competition with high confidence after securing qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup by topping their Asian play-off group in Doha ahead of Oman and the UAE.
Preparations included a local training camp during the November international window, featuring a friendly match against Zimbabwe. Head coach Julen Lopetegui said the Arab Cup represents a major competitive test and a key stage in the team’s World Cup preparations, stressing the importance of a strong opening performance against a well-organized Palestinian side.
Qatar will rely on a balanced squad blending experience and youth. The 23-man roster features key players including Akram Afif, Mohammed Muntari, Edmilson Junior and goalkeeper Meshaal Barsham.
Afif remains the team’s main attacking threat after his outstanding display at the 2023 AFC Asian Cup, where he won both the Golden Boot and Golden Ball.
Several players will miss the tournament, most notably all-time top scorer Almoez Ali due to injury. Ahmed Al Rawi and Ahmed Al Janahi are also sidelined, while Boualem Khoukhi, Pedro Miguel and Karim Boudiaf were left out as part of Lopetegui’s squad restructuring.
Palestine secured qualification after defeating Libya on penalties following a goalless draw in Doha and will be looking to reach the knockout stages for the first time in their sixth appearance. The team, coached by Ehab Abu Jazar, conducted a training camp in Spain before assembling in Doha for final preparations.
Featuring several players active in the Qatari and Egyptian leagues, Palestine head into the opener determined to challenge the hosts before a large home crowd at Al Bayt Stadium. (QNA)
