Doha: Coach Marquez Lopez announced yesterday the selection of a 26-player squad for Qatar as they prepare to embark on their journey in the third round of the Asian Qualifiers for the FIFA World Cup 2026. The squad features a blend of youthful talent and experienced players, with the seasoned duo of Almoez Ali and Akram Afif leading the offensive line.
Lopez has named the team for the initial two matches in Group A, starting with a home game against the United Arab Emirates at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium on September 5, followed by an away match against North Korea in Vientiane, Laos, five days later.
A strong performance in this challenging group, which also includes formidable opponents such as Iran, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan, is essential for Al Annabi as they aim to qualify for the FIFA World Cup for the first time in their history. Qatar made their inaugural appearance in the tournament as hosts two years ago.
Veteran goalkeeper Saad Al Sheeb has been included among the four goalkeepers, joining first-choice Meshaal Barsham, along with Mohammed Al Bakri and Salah Zakaria. Additionally, young forwards Tamim Mansour and Yusuf Abdurisag have also been selected.
Shortly after the squad announcement, the team commenced their training with an initial session at the Khalifa International Stadium yesterday. Qatar secured their place in the 18-team third round by finishing at the top of their group with an unbeaten record.
The teams competing in the third round have been organized into three groups, each consisting of six teams. The winners and runners-up from these groups will earn direct qualification for the World Cup, which will take place in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
The teams within each group will face each other in home-and-away matches, with Iran being the frontrunner in Group A.
Group B features South Korea alongside Iraq, Jordan, Oman, Palestine, and Kuwait, while Group C includes Japan, Australia, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, China, and Indonesia.
In total, eight positions are available for Asian teams, with the remaining two spots to be determined through the AFC Asian Qualifiers – Road to 26 Playoff after the conclusion of the third round.
An additional spot may be claimed by an Asian team through an Intercontinental Playoff.
