DOHA : Qatar will head to the 2026 FIFA World Cup determined to reach the knockout rounds for the first time, with experience, squad continuity and a proven attacking partnership among the key factors underpinning their hopes.
The Asian champions open their Group B campaign against Switzerland on June 13 before facing Canada on June 18 and Bosnia and Herzegovina on June 24 in the tournament being co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Four years after making their World Cup debut as hosts in 2022, Qatar arrive with greater experience and fewer expectations, believing they are better equipped to compete on the global stage.
A major source of confidence is the continuity within the squad, with 14 players from the 2022 World Cup still part of the national team setup. The group has accumulated valuable experience from competing under the intense scrutiny of a World Cup, something captain Hassan Al Haydos believes will help the team handle pressure more effectively.
“The experience gained from the previous World Cup will be crucial,” Al Haydos said, noting that players are now more familiar with the demands and atmosphere of football’s biggest tournament.
Unlike 2022, when Qatar faced significant pressure as hosts, the team enters the 2026 edition with fewer external expectations. That shift in mindset could allow players to perform with greater freedom.
Qatar have also drawn confidence from qualifying for the World Cup through the Asian qualifying process for the first time. Their path was not straightforward, as they ultimately secured their place through the playoff route after a decisive victory over the United Arab Emirates.
Coach Julen Lopetegui described qualification as a source of pride and motivation, saying it reflected the players’ determination and resilience.
Another key pillar of Qatar’s campaign is the attacking partnership of Akram Afif and Almoez Ali, who have been central to the country’s recent successes.
The duo played leading roles in Qatar’s AFC Asian Cup triumphs in 2019 and 2023. Almoez finished as the top scorer in the World Cup qualifying campaign with 12 goals, while Afif contributed 14 goal involvements, scoring four times and providing 10 assists.
Lopetegui said Almoez’s return from injury had come at an important time, while praising Afif’s consistency and influence throughout the season.
Qatar are also relying on the experience of Lopetegui, whose managerial career has included spells with Spain, Real Madrid, Sevilla, Porto and Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Since taking charge, the Spaniard has helped restore confidence and tactical discipline, guiding the team through a challenging qualification campaign and into the World Cup finals.
Support from travelling fans is expected to provide another boost. Qatar’s Social and Sport Contribution Fund (Daam) has signed an agreement with the Qatar Football Association to help fund a delegation of 1,000 supporters for the tournament.
Special flights will transport fans to the United States ahead of the competition, with the QFA hoping to create a strong presence in the stands.
QFA Marketing and Communications Director Khalid Mubarak Al Kuwari said the association was committed to ensuring significant fan support, adding that supporters would wear traditional Qatari attire as a symbol of national identity and culture.
With a squad that combines World Cup experience, continental success, established attacking talent and strong backing from supporters, Qatar believe they have a genuine opportunity to advance beyond the group stage and achieve a historic milestone for the national team.
