World Cup 2026: Qatar national team preview
Analyzing the Qatar national team's prospects at the 2026 World Cup, from Julen Lopetegui's tactical setup to expectations for the group stage.
Ahead of the largest World Cup in football history, held across the USA, Canada, and Mexico, we continue our series on tournament participants. Today, we focus on the Qatar national team as they prepare for their second appearance on the world stage.
The team's path to the finals was challenging. Qatar navigated the initial qualification stages successfully, facing tough competition in Group A during the third round of the Asian qualifiers. Despite five defeats, the team secured their spot, highlighted by crucial victories over the UAE and Oman.
The team is managed by experienced Spanish coach Julen Lopetegui. With a contract running until the summer of 2027, the tournament represents a chance for a coaching revival following his recent spells in the Premier League. Lopetegui favors a 4-2-3-1 formation, centered around team captain and star player Akram Afif.
Afif is the most valuable player in the squad, and his role in building attacks is decisive for the team's success. Julen Lopetegui
In Group B, Qatar faces a stern test. Switzerland and Bosnia and Herzegovina enter as favorites, while the clash against Canada may prove to be the best opportunity for Qatar to secure points. The team will finalize preparations with friendly matches against Ireland and El Salvador.
Overall, despite Lopetegui's experience, experts remain cautious regarding Qatar's chances of reaching the knockout stage. Competing for third place in the group appears to be the most realistic scenario, though the tournament often delivers unexpected surprises.