Qatar are looking to bounce back from their opening defeat. PIC: Mohammed Faraj/The Peninsula
Doha, Qatar: Coach Julen Lopetegui has urged hosts Qatar to put their shock defeat to Palestine behind them and concentrate on today’s crucial FIFA Arab Cup clash against Syria.
The two-time Asian champions need full points at Khalifa International Stadium to revive their hopes of advancing to the knockout stage from Group A, as anything short of a victory could result in an early elimination.
Qatar fell in dramatic fashion in their opener, with Palestine claiming all three points following Sultan Al-Brake’s own goal in the final minute of stoppage time.
“We don’t want to talk about what happened in the first match and we are looking ahead,” Lopetegui said at the pre-match press conference.
“Our focus is completely on the match against Syria in which we will try to do our best,” the Spaniard added.
Syria shocked last edition’s runners-up Tunisia in their opening game, and the Qatar coach acknowledged the challenge ahead.
“Syria performed exceptionally against Tunisia. They have a good coach and talented players. It is a fast-paced tournament and all we have to do is try our best irrespective of the results and move forward,” Lopetegui said.
Qatar were already missing striker Almoez Ali due to leg surgery, with Asim Madibo also ruled out of the tournament after sustaining an injury during the match against Palestine.
But Lopetegui expressed confidence in the squad available. “Despite the challenges, we must believe in our players,” he said.
Joining the coach, seasoned midfielder Abdulaziz Hatem said the team will fight hard for a win to stay alive in the competition.
“We know it’s a crucial match for us and we are ready,” he said.
“The team is used to playing under pressure. We are determined to deliver a great performance and secure three points to make our fans happy,” Hatem added. “It will be a difficult match but we have no other option but to win as our aim is to go far in the tournament.”
Qatar will be tough: Syria coach
Meanwhile, Syria coach Jose Lana said Qatar will pose a strong challenge but remained confident in his team’s ability to compete against the hosts.
“We are up against Qatar which will be a difficult challenge for us after starting the tournament with a win,” said the Spanish tactician.
“Qatar are a formidable side but in football anything is possible and we are looking forward to the match.”
Lana said he will finalise the formation after the team’s last training session.
“We will enter the match fully prepared. All the players are looking forward to giving their best and achieving the desired result,” he said.
While Qatar will rely heavily on playmaker Akram Afif, Syria will look to star striker Omar Khribin to shine again after his stunning free-kick against Tunisia that sealed their victory.
