Qatar faces uncertain path to FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage

Qatar Set for World Cup Debut as Reigning Asian Champions

Qatar is preparing for its first-ever appearance at the FIFA World Cup, set to take place in North America from June 11 to July 19. The team has qualified outright for the tournament, marking a significant milestone in the country’s football history.

Manager Julen Lopetegui spoke exclusively with Al Jazeera about Qatar’s chances ahead of the tournament. According to Lopetegui, the key to success lies in managing expectations while maintaining ambition. “We are preparing for this next big challenge, which is to try to be competitive in the next step of our dream,” he said.

Qatar will face a challenging Group B, comprising Switzerland, Canada, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Swiss team has a strong record at the World Cup, having reached the knockouts in each of their last three campaigns. Bosnia and Herzegovina, meanwhile, pulled off an upset by knocking out Italy on penalties during the qualifiers.

Qatar’s opponents, Canada, are also looking to make a positive impact, having won two of their pre-World Cup friendlies. The team has yet to reach the knockouts in previous World Cup appearances.

Lopetegui emphasized that Qatar’s achievement of qualifying for the 48-team tournament on merit is a significant accomplishment. As he prepares for his first World Cup as a coach, Lopetegui acknowledged that the team will face stiff competition but remains optimistic about their chances.

“We have to enjoy because we won the right to be there,” Lopetegui said. “Each moment that you have at the World Cup is top.” The team’s focus will be on being competitive and ready for the challenge ahead, despite being considered weaker than some of their opponents.

Source: Al Jazeera