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Qatar will host the 20th edition of the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025 for the first time, from Nov. 3–27, with the participation of 48 teams, also for the first time in the tournament's history. The FIFA Council has decided to grant the State of Qatar the right to host the next five editions of the FIFA U-17 World Cup, which will be held annually from 2025 to 2029.With this, Qatar becomes the 20th country in history to host the U-17 World Cup, a tournament that began in 1985, four decades ago, when China organized the first edition featuring 16 teams.The tournament was first held by FIFA under the name FIFA U-16 World Championship, before being renamed the U-17 World Championship in 1991, and later, in 2007, taking its current name, the FIFA U-17 World Cup.Throughout its history, the tournament has witnessed significant development in both the number of participating teams and the scale of competition. It began in 1985 with 16 teams divided into four groups, before expanding to 24 teams starting with the 2007 edition held in South Korea.Nigeria won the first edition, defeating West Germany 2-0 in the final. Canada hosted the second edition in 1987, where the Soviet Union claimed the title by beating Nigeria on penalties (4-2) after a 1-1 draw in regular and extra time.The third edition was hosted by Scotland, and it saw the Saudi Arabian national team become the first Arab team to win the title, defeating the hosts on penalties (5-4) after a 2-2 draw in regular and extra time.The tournament continued with the fourth edition held in Italy in 1991, where Ghana won the title by defeating Spain 1-0 in the final. Japan hosted the fifth edition in 1993, with Nigeria winning the title for the second time, this time overcoming Ghana 2-1 in the final.The tournament moved to Ecuador in 1995, where Ghana won the title for the second time in its history, defeating Brazil 3-2 in the final. Then, in 1997, Egypt became the first Arab country to host the finals, with Brazil claiming the title by defeating Ghana 2-1 in the final match.The competition then headed to New Zealand in 1999, where Brazil successfully defended its title, overcoming Australia in the final via penalty shootout (8-7) after a goalless draw in regular and extra time.In 2001, Trinidad and Tobago hosted the ninth edition of the FIFA U-17 World Cup, with France winning its first title by defeating Nigeria 3-0 in the final.Finland hosted the tenth edition in 2003, where Brazil claimed its third title, defeating Spain 1-0 in the final.The eleventh edition was held in Peru in 2005, and Mexico claimed its first-ever title after a commanding 3-0 victory over Brazil in the final.In 2007, the 12th edition of the FIFA U-17 World Cup was held in South Korea, where Nigeria claimed its third title, defeating Spain in the final via penalty shootout (3-0) after a goalless draw in regular and extra time.The 13th edition took place in Nigeria in 2009, where Switzerland won the title for the first time in its debut appearance by defeating the host nation 1-0 in the final.Mexico hosted the 14th edition, and the home team won the title for the second time, defeating Uruguay 2-0 in the final.In 2013, the United Arab Emirates became the second Arab country to host the tournament, staging the 15th edition, in which Nigeria won its fourth title, defeating Mexico 3-0 in the final.Nigeria further strengthened its record, raising its total titles to five, after winning the 16th edition in Chile in 2015, defeating Mali 2-0 in the final.India hosted the 17th edition in 2017, which saw England crowned champions for the first time after a 5-2 victory over Spain in the final.In 2019, Brazil won the 18th edition on home soil, defeating Mexico 2-0 in the final to claim its fourth title.The 19th edition of the FIFA U-17 World Cup was held in Indonesia in 2023, where Germany captured its first-ever title, defeating France in the final via penalty shootout (4-2) after a 2-2 draw in regular and extra time.

The Qatar Football Association has announced the national squad for the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025, which will take place from November 3 to 27 at Aspire Academy venues and Khalifa International Stadium.This year's tournament marks a historic expansion, with 48 teams competing for the first time in a FIFA youth event, playing 104 matches over 25 days.Qatar will also host five consecutive editions of the competition through 2029, as the event becomes an annual fixture instead of being held every two years.Qatar has been drawn into Group A alongside Italy, South Africa, and Bolivia.Head coach Alvaro Mejia has selected a 21-player squad, including goalkeepers Ahmed Saber, Khaled Shukri, and Abdulrahman Khalid. Other key players include Tamim Al Qadi, Adam Riyadh, Zaid Faisal, Sultan Al Abdulrahman, Saud Al Hamad, Issa Waleed, Saifuddin Ahmed, Sheikh Mohammed, Abdulaziz Younes, Omar Al Marzouqi, Faisal Saeed, Karam Hadi, Malik Majed, Mohammed Akram, Mostafa Khalid, Muhannad Jamil, Mohammed Abdulrahman, and Yazan Hani.Qatar's campaign begins against Italy on November 3, followed by South Africa on November 6, and Bolivia on November 9 in their final group-stage match.

Wendeson Wanderley Santos de Melo – better known as Dell – wears the mantle of comparison with a maturity that belies his age. Dubbed the Hinterland Haaland, or the Haaland of the Sertão, in reference to his backcountry roots in north-eastern Brazil, the teenage sensation is unfazed by being measured against one of the most formidable goalscorers the game has ever seen.In the lead-up to Brazil’s campaign at the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025, Dell spoke exclusively to FIFA and revealed his admiration for his Norwegian counterpart.“Haaland is the player I look up to the most,” he said. “Whenever I can, I make time to watch his matches and videos, observing his behaviour both on and off the pitch. I study his positioning and movement in and around the box.”Though some may have dismissed the comparison, Dell prefers to embrace it, fuelling his inspiration to narrow the gap between himself and his idol.“I like the nickname because he’s someone I admire – I’m used to it now.”It is more than Dell’s physical traits that have drawn comparisons to Haaland – he plays like him too. The Bahia sharpshooter is a natural goalscorer, combining explosive speed with a cool head in front of goal, especially when it matters most. In 2023, he bagged 40 goals in 34 outings for Bahia’s U-17s, paving the way for him to step up to the U-20s and then the senior side.The South American U-17 Championship also bore witness to his brilliance earlier this year. He delivered when the Seleção needed him most, netting the only goal of the game against Chile in the semi-finals. He was then handed the responsibility of taking the decisive spot-kick in the final shootout against Colombia, which he dispatched with trademark composure.“There’s actually no big secret,” he laughed “It’s the result of a lot of hard work, both here at Bahia and with the national team. It’s important to always have faith, ambition and joy. The goals I scored were crucial in helping us reach the final and clinch the title. I’m so grateful, because even when times got tough I never lost faith and always trusted that we’d pull through.”Dell will now have the opportunity to strut his stuff at the on the global stage, having been called up by coach Dudu Patetuci. Brazil kick off their campaign against Honduras on 4 November.“Playing for Brazil is another dream come true," he continued."We won the South American title – now it’s time to go for the World Cup. I’m truly honoured and delighted to be playing for my country.”It is the first time that three Bahia players have been called up to represent the Canarinho at a global showpiece. Dell will be joined in Qatar by fellow forward Ruan Pablo and goalkeeper Arthur Jampa.“It’s also special to be representing the national team alongside two of my club team-mates, Jampa and Ruan Pablo," he stated. "We’ll be going for the title with Brazil after working together every day at Bahia. We trust in the coaching staff and want to make our fans proud by being good ambassadors for Brazilian football and Bahia.”This will be the biggest U-17 World Cup ever, with 48 teams set to compete for the coveted crown, and the final set for Khalifa International Stadium, one of the venues used at FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. While keeping his feet on the ground, Dell is dreaming big and hoping to make it all the way to the decider.“(Playing at Khalifa International Stadium) is an added incentive for us – FIFA nailed it with that one," he said. "It’s special to be able to play in a stadium where some of the world’s greatest stars have featured at the World Cup.“We all dream of one day playing for the senior national team. Doing well at this World Cup would bring that dream ever closer. Pulling on the shirt of the world’s greatest national team would undoubtedly be a huge privilege.”

Only 10 days remain for the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025, which will see 48 teams from across the globe convene in Qatar from November 3-27 to compete for the coveted trophy.All eyes will be on Qatar, as the country gets set to host the youth tournament for the first time. The hosts will be looking to improve on their best finish, when they claimed fourth place in the 1991 edition of the tournament that took place in Italy – becoming the first Qatari team to reach the Third-Place Playoff.Jassim al-Tamimi, who captained the 1991 U-17 team at the time, recounts the country’s historic achievement 34 years ago and the significance that the tournament continues to hold for young players.“My beginnings were like any Qatari youth, playing football in the neighbourhood. When I was selected to be part of the team for the 1991 U-17 World Cup, it was a dream come true,” said al-Tamimi, who eventually played for the Qatar senior national team from 1996–2004.During the 1991 tournament, al-Tamimi’s squad was drawn into Group B, alongside Australia, Congo and Mexico. After a slow start with a 0-0 draw against Congo, and a 1-0 defeat to Mexico, al-Tamimi’s winning goal in the 76th minute against Australia, launched the Young Maroons out of the group stage.The team would go on to beat the USA in the quarter-finals, before losing to eventual champions Ghana in a penalty shootout in the semi-finals. Despite narrowly losing to Argentina in the third-place Playoff, the Young Maroons made history by finishing fourth in the tournament.“We became the first Qatari team in the youth category to make it to this stage. This was a tremendous achievement. The joy was indescribable and the whole country was celebrating with us. This experience became the gateway to my football career,” said al-Tamimi, who went on to achieve 100 caps for his country.With Qatar now set to make its eighth appearance at the tournament, a new generation of players will be looking to make the country proud. Hosts Qatar have been drawn into Group A, alongside Italy, South Africa and Bolivia, and will play their first match against Italy on November 3, 6:45pm.“Playing in the U-17 World Cup will be an unforgettable experience for our young players. I hope it becomes a wonderful memory for them, just like it was for me. It is an honour for any player to represent their national team at the highest level,” said al-Tamimi.“Hosting tournaments such as the World Cup in Qatar will serve as a launch point for emerging talents and future stars. Qatar has already surpassed many developed football nations in terms of its sporting infrastructure and organisational abilities. It is now time for our young players to put Qatar amongst the top-ranked teams in the world,” he added.The FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025, taking place at the state-of-the-art Competition Complex at Aspire Zone, will see as many as eight matches a day, for a total of 104 matches. The final will take place on November 27, 7pm, at Khalifa International Stadium.Fans can purchase tickets at: www.roadtoqatar.qa Tickets are available as a Day Pass, which will enable fans to attend multiple matches a day as well as cultural and entertainment activities taking place around matches, in what will be an electrifying football festival-like atmosphere.Fans can also purchase a Prime Pass, which will enable them to reserve seats for high demand matches. Supporters of the Qatar national team can avail the Follow My Team ticket, which will enable them to attend all matches of the Qatari U-17 team during the group stage.All tickets will be digital and will include wheelchair accessible seating options for disabled fans.The FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar is the first of five consecutive editions that Qatar will be hosting. As the first FIFA World Cup to feature 48 teams, this will be the biggest-ever edition of the youth tournament that saw the likes of Gianluigi Buffon, Luis Figo, Xavi Hernandez, Eden Hazard, Andres Iniesta, Neymar, Ronaldinho, Son Heung-min and Francesco Totti appear on the world stage for the first time.Qatar’s spectacular line-up of mega-sporting events will kick off with the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar from November 3-27, followed by the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar from December 1-18. In addition, the country is also set to host the second edition of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2025, which will take place on December 10, 13 and 17.

With the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025™ set to kick off in less than two weeks, the UAE U- 17 national team is finalising preparations for what promises to be a landmark tournament for youth football globally.Scheduled from 3-27 November, the competition marks the first FIFA World Cup™ to feature 48 teams, with Qatar set to host five consecutive editions through 2029.Drawn into Group C alongside Senegal, Croatia and Costa Rica, the UAE U- 17 national team will begin their journey on 3 November at Aspire Park’s Pitch 8 against Costa Rica. For the young Emirati players, this competition is the realisation of a lifelong dream.Goalkeeper Jassim Al Hammadi looks forward to playing in Qatar after it successfully hosted a historic edition of the FIFA World Cup™: "As a fan, it was a wonderful experience to watch the World Cup in Qatar and now being able to play and train in the same facilities used by Messi and Ronaldo is really exciting."He added: "We take great responsibility and pride in playing football at the U-17 World Cup. I want to give my best for the UAE and play for the first team in the future."While Al Hammadi draws inspiration from football's greats, his teammate Abdulrahman Al Awani is focused on making his own mark. For the young player, this tournament represents uncharted territory. "This is the first major tournament I will be playing in. I am confident we will do well. I hope to make my family and country proud. Football means everything to me."Having witnessed Qatar's preparations first-hand, assistant coach and former UAE player Nawaf Mubarak is impressed by what awaits the teams. "Qatar hosted an amazing World Cup and showed its capabilities to the world. The sporting infrastructure is impressive. The country is beautiful. Everything from hotels to stadiums, and transportation is world-class."For Mubarak, the team’s ambitions are clear and bold. "In this World Cup, we hope to advance as far as possible and to showcase to the world the true potential of our country as strong contenders in international football."The tournament's unique hosting concept will see all 104 matches contested at Aspire Zone's Competition Complex.All tickets will be digital, with Day Passes available for just QAR 20, allowing fans to watch multiple matches throughout the day while enjoying cultural and entertainment activities. Supporters of the Qatar National Team can avail the Follow My Team package to follow the young Maroons through every group stage match.Accessible tickets, including wheelchair-accessible seats are available throughout the tournament. Requests for accessible tickets can be submitted to [email protected] tournament will culminate on 27 November at the Khalifa International Stadium, with tickets to the Final available across two categories, starting from QAR 15.The FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025™ marks the beginning of an exceptional period of elite football competition in Qatar. Taking place from 3-27 November, the tournament will be followed by the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025™ on 1-18 December and the second edition of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup 2025™ on 10, 13, and 17 December.For tickets and the full match schedule, visit www.roadtoqatar.qa. Follow @u17worldcupqa on social media for the latest tournament updates.

His Excellency Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani sent a cable of congratulations to the Head of Government of the sisterly Kingdom of Morocco, Aziz Akhannouch on the occasion of his country's national U-20 football team's victory in the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup.

His Highness the Deputy Amir Sheikh Abdullah bin Hamad Al-Thani sent a cable of congratulations to the King Mohammed VI of the sisterly Kingdom of Morocco on the occasion of his country's national U-20 football team's victory in the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup.

His Highness the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani sent a cable of congratulations to the King Mohammed VI of the sisterly Kingdom of Morocco on the occasion of his country's national U-20 football team's victory in the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup, wishing Morocco and its brotherly people further sporting achievements and continued progress and prosperity.

When the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 kicks off later this year, it will mark another milestone in the tournament's status as a premier celebration of Arab football. Yet for Qatar-based fan leaders, the tournament's significance extends beyond the competition. It serves as an opportunity to showcase the unity and passion that define Arab culture. Set to take place from 1-18 December, this marks the second time Qatar will host the FIFA Arab Cup™ following the successful 2021 edition. Qatar will also host the next two editions in 2029 and 2033. Sixteen teams will compete across six stadiums that previously hosted matches during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. Algeria enters the tournament as defending champions having beat Tunisia in the 2021 Final. For Athmane Abbassi, a programmes manager who has lived in Qatar since 2013, the expectations are sky-high. “Our team's mission won't be easy, especially with the noticeable improvement in many Arab teams in recent years. However, we are aiming to win the title for the second time in a row,” says Abbassi, who has been a fan leader since the previous edition. The timing is particularly meaningful for Algerian fans, following their national team's qualification for the FIFA World Cup 2026. "Football in Algeria is more than a game, it unites people, strengthens our pride, and reflects our national spirit. The Arab Cup is even more special because it brings together countries that share the same language, culture, and passion for football. It's more than competition – it's a celebration of Arab unity, pride, and brotherhood, on and off the pitch," explains Abbassi. For Morocco's Fikria El Kaouakibi, who has been working in academia and living in Qatar for the past 15 years, football is woven into the fabric of her Moroccan identity. "As a Moroccan, football has always been part of my life. It's everywhere. It’s a sport that we play in the streets, schools, and neighbourhoods. It really is a part of our DNA," says El Kaouakibi, who has previously volunteered at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, where the Lions of Atlas secured a historic 4th place finish. She adds that Morocco's recent successes across various competitions, including their historic FIFA U-20 World Cup 2025 win—a first for the Arab world—have elevated national pride and put the country on the global stage. The Arab Cup represents another opportunity to showcase that excellence, with added significance as Morocco prepares to play in the FIFA World Cup 2026. "Every young Arab dreams of playing in tournaments like this one. Seeing their heroes on the field gives them motivation to work harder and believe that anything is possible. Whether at the stadium or watching from home, fans are able to connect deeply with the sport and their national identity," said El Kaouakibi.| Ali Kotash, founder of the Lebanese community football team in Qatar, has built many connections through sport over his fifteen years of work with the community. For him, the Arab Cup represents something deeper than competition. “On the pitch, we're not just representing our own country, we're one community. I'll never forget last year's match between Lebanon and Egypt: my kids were waving Egyptian flags while Egyptian families proudly held Lebanese flags. That's what football does, it brings everyone together and creates a sense of unity.” Kotash also believes that hosting the tournament in the region will raise the standard of football across the Arab world: “This tournament gives Arab nations the opportunity to compete at the highest level, helping us develop our sports and reach world-class standards. Through the Arab Cup, we're developing the future of Arab football and nurturing the next generation of talent and passion." For Egyptian fan leader Hossam Abu Al Ola, who has been a legal professional in Qatar for 25 years, the tournament carries profound meaning. "As an Egyptian, football for us means life. Now having an Arab tournament under the auspices of FIFA puts us on the map. This makes our participation in this tournament very valuable. This is our tournament. It's for the entire Arab world. Its success is our success." Abu Al Ola believes that Qatar's delivery of the FIFA World Cup established a blueprint for Arab sporting ambition. "After Qatar delivered what many call the best World Cup ever, we know what's possible," he said. "Qatar has proven to the whole world that it can host and organise the biggest events in sport." Fans can purchase FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 tickets exclusively on: www.roadtoqatar.qa, with prices starting from QR25. Supporters can also purchase a Follow My Team ticket, which will enable them to attend all matches of their team of choice during the group stage. All tickets are digital and include accessible seating options for disabled fans.

When the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025™ kicks off later this year, it will mark another milestone in the tournament's status as a premier celebration of Arab football.Yet for Qatar-based fan leaders, the tournament's significance extends beyond the competition. It serves as an opportunity to showcase the unity and passion that define Arab culture.Set to take place from 1-18 December, this marks the second time Qatar will host the FIFA Arab Cup™ following the successful 2021 edition. Qatar will also host the next two editions in 2029 and 2033. Sixteen teams will compete across six stadiums that previously hosted matches during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™.**media[371573]**Athmane Abbassi, Algerian Fan LeaderAlgeria enters the tournament as defending champions having beat Tunisia in the 2021 Final. For Athmane Abbassi, a programmes manager who has lived in Qatar since 2013, the expectations are sky-high."Our team's mission won't be easy, especially with the noticeable improvement in many Arab teams in recent years. However, we are aiming to win the title for the second time in a row," says Abbassi, who has been a fan leader since the previous edition.The timing is particularly meaningful for Algerian fans, following their national team's qualification for the FIFA World Cup 2026™."Football in Algeria is more than a game, it unites people, strengthens our pride, and reflects our national spirit. The Arab Cup is even more special because it brings together countries that share the same language, culture, and passion for football. It's more than competition – it's a celebration of Arab unity, pride, and brotherhood, on and off the pitch," explains Abbassi.**media[371574]**Fikria El Kaouakibi, Moroccan Fan LeaderFor Morocco's Fikria El Kaouakibi, who has been working in academia and living in Qatar for the past 15 years, football is woven into the fabric of her Moroccan identity."As a Moroccan, football has always been part of my life. It's everywhere. It’s a sport that we play in the streets, schools, and neighbourhoods. It really is a part of our DNA," says El Kaouakibi, who has previously volunteered at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022™, where the Lions of Atlas secured a historic 4th place finish.She adds that Morocco's recent successes across various competitions, including their historic FIFA U-20 World Cup 2025™ win—a first for the Arab world—have elevated national pride and put the country on the global stage. The Arab Cup represents another opportunity to showcase that excellence, with added significance as Morocco prepares to play in the FIFA World Cup 2026™."Every young Arab dreams of playing in tournaments like this one. Seeing their heroes on the field gives them motivation to work harder and believe that anything is possible. Whether at the stadium or watching from home, fans are able to connect deeply with the sport and their national identity," said El Kaouakibi.**media[371572]**Ali Kotash, Lebanese Fan LeaderAli Kotash, founder of the Lebanese community football team in Qatar, has built many connections through sport over his fifteen years of work with the community. For him, the Arab Cup represents something deeper than competition.“On the pitch, we're not just representing our own country, we're one community. I'll never forget last year's match between Lebanon and Egypt: my kids were waving Egyptian flags while Egyptian families proudly held Lebanese flags.That's what football does, it brings everyone together and creates a sense of unity.”Kotash also believes that hosting the tournament in the region will raise the standard of football across the Arab world: “This tournament gives Arab nations the opportunity to compete at the highest level, helping us develop our sports and reach world-class standards. Through the Arab Cup, we're developing the future of Arab football and nurturing the next generation of talent and passion."For Egyptian fan leader Hossam Abu Al Ola, who has been a legal professional in Qatar for 25 years, the tournament carries profound meaning."As an Egyptian, football for us means life. Now having an Arab tournament under the auspices of FIFA puts us on the map. This makes our participation in this tournament very valuable. This is our tournament. It's for the entire Arab world. Its success is our success."Abu Al Ola believes that Qatar's delivery of the FIFA World Cup™ established a blueprint for Arab sporting ambition. "After Qatar delivered what many call the best World Cup ever, we know what's possible," he said. "Qatar has proven to the whole world that it can host and organise the biggest events in sport."Fans can purchase FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025™ tickets exclusively on: www.roadtoqatar.qa, with prices starting from QAR 25. Supporters can also purchase a Follow My Team ticket, which will enable them to attend all matches of their team of choice during the group stage. All tickets are digital and include accessible seating options for disabled fans.For the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025™ official match schedule, visit www.roadtoqatar.qa.For all tournament-related information, follow @arabcupqa and @roadtoqatar on all major social media platforms.

Qatar's star striker Akram Afif expressed his delight at the team’s historic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico, saying that reaching the tournament through the qualifiers marks a new milestone for Qatari football.Afif, who was among the three finalists for the AFC Player of the Year award at the annual awards ceremony in Riyadh and lost out to Saudi Arabia’s Salem al-Dawsari. said he felt proud to be nominated once again for Asia’s top individual honour.“I congratulate the Qatari fans on qualifying for the World Cup, which is a significant achievement for Qatari football after our participation in the last edition as host,” the Al Sadd forward said.The two-time AFC Player of the Year winner, who helped lead Qatar to a 2-1 victory over the United Arab Emirates in Tuesday’s Asian play-off, added that the national team’s qualification reflected the hard work and spirit of the players. “I feel proud to be among the nominees for the award, and more importantly, to have qualified for the World Cup,” he said, expressing his gratitude to the fans for their strong support throughout the campaign.Afif has been in exceptional form, contributing decisively to both club and country. Last season, he registered 45 goal involvements for Al Sadd — scoring 23 goals and providing 22 assists in 36 matches — while leading the club to a second consecutive league title and the Qatar Cup. He was also the league’s top assist provider and guided Al Sadd to the AFC Champions League quarter-finals.During the AFC Awards ceremony, Afif drew attention for comments made in a televised interview regarding the closing moments of Qatar’s win over the UAE, in which he was seen gesturing toward supporters. Responding to questions about the incident, Afif said with a smile that he had encouraged fans to throw objects onto the pitch “just to waste time,” before quickly adding that he also asked them to stop so the referee would not extend the stoppage period.The tense finish in Doha saw Qatar secure a vital 2-1 win to top Group A of the Asian playoffs and confirm their place at the 2026 World Cup—the country’s second appearance at the global showpiece, and the first achieved through qualification.

The unique experience of Spanish coaching was marked successfully by the Qatari national football team, demonstrating its competence, excellence, and ability to achieve historic accomplishments with Qatari football, the latest of which was qualifying for the FIFA World Cup 2026. Qatar secured qualification for the World Cup, which will be held next year in the US, Canada, and Mexico, after defeating the UAE 2-1 in the final round of Group A of the Asian play-offs. Spanish coach Julen Lopetegui led the Qatari team to make history by successfully qualifying for the World Cup, adding a new chapter to Spain's record of success with Qatari football. Lopetegui took over the Qatari national team at the beginning of May, succeeding his compatriot, Luis Garcia. Despite the short period he spent in charge before the decisive matches, he was able to prepare the team in the necessary manner and gave the opportunity to many of them to participate in the starting lineup for the first time, despite the difficulty of the task. The team proved their worth and earned the coach's trust, contributing together to successfully qualify for the World Cup. This secured Qatar's second consecutive participation in the World Cup, and its first through the qualifiers after qualifying for the last FIFA World Cup, Qatar 2022, as the host nation. The Spanish coach's achievements with Qatari football are not a recent development, but extend over the past decade, which has witnessed the presence of Spanish coaches who have left a clear mark and achieved historic accomplishments with Qatar's national teams. Spain's success with the Qatari national team began in gradual stages, beginning with coach Felix Sanchez, who successfully led Qatar to the 2014 AFC U-20 Championship title. Sanchez joined Aspire Academy in 2006, coming from Barcelona's renowned La Masia academy, to work on developing football in Qatar. In 2013, he took over as coach of the U-19 national team, and just one year after taking over, he succeeded in winning the AFC U-19 Championship, the team's first continental title in this age group. In line with Qatar's vision, Sanchez assumed responsibility for the youth teams, both U-20 and U-23, until he was chosen in 2017 to take over the first team, the majority of which was composed of members of the generation he had coached in previous youth groups. Just two years after taking charge of the national team, the Spanish coach led Qatar to win the AFC Asian Cup 2019 title in the UAE, marking the country's first continental title in an unprecedented historic achievement. He then went on to become the first coach to lead Al-Annabi to its historic appearance at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. After a period during which Portuguese Carlos Queiroz took over as coach of the national team, Qatar returned to the Spanish footballing sphere with the appointment of Bartolome Marquez Lopez as coach shortly before the start of the 2023 Asian Cup in Doha. Lopez lived up to expectations, continuing the journey of achievements after successfully defending the title, leading Al-Annabi to win the continental cup for the second time in a row, which was also a historic achievement. Spain's successes with the Qatari national team continued when Julen Lopetegui led the Qatari national team to qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2026, a historic achievement as it marked the first time the Qatari national team had qualified for the World Cup through the qualifiers. The Spanish coach's unique achievements confirm his outstanding success with Qatari football, writing a distinguished history, and his aspirations for further success.