HE the Minister of Culture and Sports Salah bin Ghanem bin Nasser al-Ali praised yesterday the achievement of the Qatari national team after they won the AFC Asian Cup for the first time in their history, following the defeat of Japan 3-1. HE the Minister said that the achievement was thanks to the support of His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al-Thani and his commitment to developing Qatari sports, and belief in the role sports play in the progress of people.
HE the Minister of Culture and Sports congratulated Qatar Football Association (QFA) and its president HE Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed al-Thani, as well as every national team player who delighted all Qatari football fans with their performances on and off the pitch that reflected the values of the Qatari society. 
He stressed that the State of Qatar deserved that achievement, adding that the national side was a clear winner after some outstanding performances and record numbers worthy of the State of Qatar and Qatari sports.