Qatar
FIFA World Cup 2026 Team Profile
Julen Lopetegui
Head Coach
5-3-2
Formation
0
Titles
2
Appearances
Overview
Qatar return for their second consecutive World Cup after the 2022 home tournament, having used that experience to blood a new generation. As reigning Asian Cup champions, the Maroon are aiming to reach the knockout rounds for the first time.
Road to World Cup 2026
Qatar progressed through the AFC qualification as one of the top two in their group, building on the infrastructure and squad depth that underpinned their 2022 performance.
Qualification: AFC qualification
Key Players to Watch
- Akram Afif
- Almoez Ali
- Hassan Al-Haydos
- Pedro Correia
Strengths
Excellent goalkeeper, set-piece threat, and a team that has played together consistently for several years. The home crowd in 2022 showed the impact an organized support base can have.
Weaknesses
Lack of high-level international experience for many squad members. Defensive transitions against pace can be a problem.
World Cup 2026 Chances
Reaching the round of 32 is the explicit target. A third-place finish in Group B and a favourable tiebreaker would do it.
Historical World Cup Performance
Two prior appearances (2022) ending in the group stage. The 2019 Asian Cup triumph remains the high point of the senior team's recent history.
Best result: Group stage (2022)
Last World Cup: Group stage (2022)
Match Schedule
Qatar vs Switzerland
Canada vs Qatar
Bosnia and Herzegovina vs Qatar