As the countdown to the FIFA World Cup 2026 Asian qualifiers continues, Qatar prepares for Asian play-offs with two important friendly matches in September. These games will help finalize the squad and sharpen tactics.
The Qatar Football Association confirmed the fixtures earlier this week. The team will play Bahrain on September 3 at Al Thumama Stadium. Four days later, they will face Russia at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium.
Qatar prepares for Asian play-offs under the guidance of head coach Julen Lopetegui. These games will serve as the final rehearsals before the decisive qualifying round in October.
Qatar has been placed in Group A for the play-offs. They will host Oman on October 8 and the United Arab Emirates on October 14. Both matches will take place in Doha at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium.
Meanwhile, Group B includes Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Indonesia. Only the group winners will automatically advance to the next stage of qualifiers.
However, the runners-up from both groups will face each other in a two-legged playoff. The winner of that tie will secure a spot in the FIFA Playoff Tournament in November.
Recently, the team held a training camp in Austria to prepare for the challenges ahead. The camp marked the return of veteran striker Hassan Al-Haydos. He came out of retirement to support the team.
Additionally, midfielder Guilherme Torres received his first call-up to the national squad. He plays for Al Sadd and impressed during domestic competitions.
Lopetegui, who took over earlier this year, already led the team to a win over Iran. However, they narrowly lost to Uzbekistan during the third round of qualifiers.
Now, as Qatar prepares for Asian play-offs, these friendlies will allow coaches to assess performance and make final adjustments. Each game provides a chance to strengthen team chemistry and evaluate strategy.
Ultimately, the goal remains clear. Qatar prepares for Asian play-offs with determination to earn their place at the 2026 World Cup through performance—not by hosting.
