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Qatar

World Cup 2026 · Group B · AFC · FIFA Rank #52

UnderdogCoach: Julen LopeteguiBest result: Group stage (2022)Appearance #2

⚙️ Tactical Profile

Qualified on merit this time after the 2022 host campaign. The Aspire Academy blueprint runs throughout: a patient 3-5-2 with tidy combinations in the half-spaces, everything flowing through Akram Afif. Against world-class physicality, though, the gap is still glaring.

🔮 Expectations

After going home pointless in 2022, the bar is refreshingly honest: win Qatar's first World Cup point and score from open play. Two Asian Cup titles prove the level at continental level; almost everyone still has them finishing bottom of Group B.

⭐ Key Players

Akram AfifForward / Attacking Mid · Al-Sadd — The best player in Asia. Every dangerous Qatari attack starts with his left foot.78Almoez AliStriker · Al-Duhail — A poacher's poacher; lives between the width of the posts.76Meshaal BarshamGoalkeeper · Al-Sadd — Quick across the goal, brave off his line — expect him to be busy.74Tarek SalmanCentre-Back · Al-Sadd — The dependable, flexible defender every tournament squad needs.73Edmilson JuniorWinger · Al-Duhail — The naturalized winger who gives Qatar a genuine take-on threat.74

📋 Full 26-Man Squad

Mahmud AbunadaPedro MiguelLucas MendesIssa LayeJassem GaberAbdulaziz HatemAhmed AlaaeldinEdmilson JuniorMohammed MuntariHassan Al-HaydosAkram AfifKarim BoudiafAyoub Al-OuiHomam AhmedYusuf AbdurisagBoualem KhoukhiAhmed Al-GanehiSultan Al-BrakeAlmoez AliAhmed FathySalah ZakariaMeshaal BarshamAssim MadiboTahsin JamshidAl-Hashmi Al-HussainMohamed Manai

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