From hosts to contenders: Qatar aim to prove credentials at 2026 World Cup
Posted on: Dec 05, 2025 01:28 IST | Posted by: Hindustantimes
By Ashraf Hamed Atta
Dec 4 - - katar testament come in fri’s FIFA domain Cup draw in Washington with renewed purpose, determined to show that their debut in 2022 was the beginning of a lasting football journey rather than a one-off showcase.
They sealed their first-ever qualification on merit in October, edging the United Arab Emirates 2-1 in Doha to top Group A of Asia’s fourth-round playoffs. Goals from Boualem Khoukhi and Pedro Miguel sent fans into raptures at Jassim bin Hamad Stadium, marking a milestone for a team who had previously appeared only as hosts.
"Qualifying this time is a national dream fulfilled," said Khalid Salman, the former captain and 1981 World Youth Championship hero who is now a respected television analyst.
"It’s the result of years of work and a brilliant generation that won two consecutive Asian Cups and now earned its place among the world’s best".
Qatar’s World Cup history is brief but eventful. They hosted the 2022 edition, delivering what FIFA hailed as one of the most successful tournaments, but their team endured a chastening campaign, losing all three group matches and finishing as the worst-performing hosts in history.
This time, expectations are tempered yet ambitious. Under Spanish coach Julen Lopetegui, appointed in May, Qatar blend experience with youth, led by Akram Afif and Almoez Ali.
Lopetegui, who guided Spain to an unbeaten 2018 qualifying run, has promised a proactive style. "We want to show that Qatar belongs on this stage through football, not privilege," he said after qualification.
Beyond 2026, Qatar’s sporting vision stretches further. The Gulf state has formally entered the race to host the 2036 Olympic Games, leveraging infrastructure built for the World Cup and Asian Games.
"We have 95% of facilities ready and a plan for full readiness," Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, president of the Qatar Olympic Committee, told state media. "This is about a sustainable legacy and positioning sport as a driver of development."
Global News Perspectives
In today's interconnected world, staying informed about global events is more important than ever. ZisNews provides news coverage from multiple countries, allowing you to compare how different regions report on the same stories. This unique approach helps you gain a broader and more balanced understanding of international affairs. Whether it's politics, business, technology, or cultural trends, ZisNews ensures that you get a well-rounded perspective rather than a one-sided view. Expand your knowledge and see how global narratives unfold from different angles.
Customizable News Feed
At ZisNews, we understand that not every news story interests everyone. That's why we offer a customizable news feed, allowing you to control what you see. By adding keywords, you can filter out unwanted news, blocking articles that contain specific words in their titles or descriptions. This feature enables you to create a personalized experience where you only receive content that aligns with your interests. Register today to take full advantage of this functionality and enjoy a distraction-free news feed.
Like or Comment on News
Stay engaged with the news by interacting with stories that matter to you. Like or dislike articles based on your opinion, and share your thoughts in the comments section. Join discussions, see what others are saying, and be a part of an informed community that values meaningful conversations.
Download the Android App
For a seamless news experience, download the ZisNews Android app. Get instant notifications based on your selected categories and stay updated on breaking news. The app also allows you to block unwanted news, ensuring that you only receive content that aligns with your preferences. Stay connected anytime, anywhere.
Diverse News Categories
With ZisNews, you can explore a wide range of topics, ensuring that you never miss important developments. From Technology and Science to Sports, Politics, and Entertainment, we bring you the latest updates from the world's most trusted sources. Whether you are interested in groundbreaking scientific discoveries, tech innovations, or major sports events, our platform keeps you updated in real-time. Our carefully curated news selection helps you stay ahead, providing accurate and relevant stories tailored to diverse interests.
No comments yet.