DOHA: The Qatar Football Association (QFA) yesterday confirmed an international friendly with Russia. The fixture is set to take place in Doha on November 10.
The match will be of great significance for both teams since Russia and Qatar are preparing to host the 2018 and 2022 FIFA World Cup editions respectively.
“The international will be played at Al Sadd Stadium,” QFA said in a statement yesterday.
The Russia clash comes five days ahead of Qatar’s 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying game against China on November 15, QFA added.
Coached by Jorge Fossati, Qatar have played four Asian Zone qualifying fixtures in September and October.
Their last game was against Syria which Qatar won at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium. Currently Russia are ranked 53 while Qatar are 91 on the FIFA computer. Coached by Stanislav Cherchesov, Russia are currently targeting a semi-finals spot at the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
Cherchesov was appointed coach after his predecessor Leonid Slutsky stepped down following a disappointing campaign at UEFA EURO 2016 Qatar, hosts of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, are aiming to reach the finals of the next edition to be held in Russia.
Fossati has been seen at Qatar Stars League (QSL) games recently, indicating that he is busy planning for the game against China on November 15.
