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Qatar World Cup 2026 Team Guide
Unimpressive in qualification and with preparation disrupted, at least the squad will not be burdened with the pressure of hosting this time
TL;DR
- Qatar's World Cup 2026 preparations were disrupted by cancelled friendlies due to the US-Iran war.
- Coach Julen Lopetegui had a winless streak in his first 11 games before the World Cup warm-ups.
- The team qualified narrowly, finishing fourth in their group and needing home advantage to secure passage.
- Defensive frailties were evident in qualifying, with a minus seven goal difference and 24 goals conceded in 10 matches.
- Lopetegui aims for a solid defensive setup, focusing on counter-attacks and set pieces.
- Key players include Akram Afif, a star from the 2019 and 2023 Asian Cups, and young midfielder Mohamed al-Mannai.
- Veteran defender Boualem Khoukhi, aged 35, is likely playing in his last World Cup.
- The team's likely formation is a 4-2-3-1.
- Fan support is expected to be minimal due to Qatar's small population and lack of a significant diaspora in North America.