Two-time Asian champions Qatar have revitalised their AFC Asian Qualifiers – Road to 2026 campaign with a crucial victory over Kyrgyzstan. After starting their World Cup qualifying journey with a disappointing defeat and a draw, the 3-1 win at Al Thumama Stadium on Thursday secured them three precious points. Under the guidance of coach Marquez Lopez, Qatar aim for a top-two finish in their group to secure direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup, which will take place across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Qatar faced considerable pressure after an unexpected defeat to the UAE, followed by a draw against North Korea in their opening matches. However, their comprehensive win has injected confidence ahead of another pivotal Group A clash against Iran on Tuesday. Notably, the Asian Football Confederation decided to relocate the match from Mashhad to Dubai “after careful consideration of the prevailing security situation and in consultation with FIFA and the relevant stakeholders.”
Coach Lopez expressed that Qatar’s first victory in this stage of the qualifiers has boosted the players’ morale, emphasising that the team will strive to secure maximum points in their remaining fixtures. Each team in the six-team group will play 10 home and away matches, with the top two teams advancing directly to the World Cup. Qatar had played the 2022 World Cup as hosts but they have never qualified for the global football showpiece. Despite this momentum, Qatar face stiff competition, as unbeaten Uzbekistan and Iran currently lead the group with seven points each from three matches. The UAE, level on points with Qatar, are in third place due to a superior goal difference. Meanwhile, North Korea occupy the fifth spot, and Kyrgyzstan, under coach Maksim Lisitsyn, remain at the bottom after suffering their third consecutive defeat.
The match against Kyrgyzstan also saw the return of Abdelkarim Hassan, marking his first appearance for the national team since the FIFA World Cup 2022. Boualem Khoukhi was also recalled to the starting lineup. The attacking trio of Akram Afif, Almoez Ali and Edmilson Junior impressed, with Almoez contributing a goal and an assist. Afif, named the best player in the match, showcased his playmaking abilities in the crucial victory.
As Qatar prepare for the important game against group leaders Iran, signs of improvement are evident. A sharper, more precise Qatar could secure three points at Rashid Stadium. Qatar will be drawing inspiration from their memorable 3-2 win over Iran in the Asia Cup semi-final earlier this year. Afif has indicated that the best is yet to come from Qatar in the qualifiers, and the team will need to continue their upward trajectory if they hope to maintain their winning momentum following their much-needed triumph over Kyrgyzstan.
