Qatar is fighting to keep their 2026 World Cup dreams alive as they host already-qualified Iran at Khalifa International Stadium on Thursday night.
The Maroons need just one win from their final two matches to secure a spot in the fourth round of AFC qualifying. Meanwhile, Iran have already booked their ticket to the World Cup, having comfortably locked in a top-two finish in Group A.
Though Qatar made their World Cup debut as hosts in 2022, they’ve never qualified through the traditional route. Now, under new manager Julen Lopetegui, they’re determined to change that—even if direct qualification from Group A is out of reach.
Sitting third in the group, seven points behind Uzbekistan with two games left, Qatar must now focus on sealing a third or fourth-place finish to advance. With 10 points from eight matches (three wins, one draw, four losses), they’re four points clear of Kyrgyzstan, meaning a single victory in their remaining fixtures—against Iran and Uzbekistan—will be enough to progress.
While failing to secure a top-two spot may sting for the back-to-back Asian Cup champions (2019, 2023), the fourth round offers another shot at World Cup glory. There, the six advancing teams will be split into two groups of three, with the winners earning a place at the 2026 tournament.
But first, Qatar must navigate two tough tests—starting with group leaders Iran.
Iran have been flawless in qualifying, topping Group A with 20 points (six wins, two draws) and an unbeaten record. They’ve already punched their World Cup ticket and will be eager to maintain their momentum, riding a 12-game unbeaten streak across all competitions.
Qatar, however, have proven they can trouble Iran. Their thrilling 3-2 victory in the 2023 Asian Cup semifinals was a historic moment, though Iran exacted revenge with a dominant 4-1 win in the reverse qualifier.
Now, with so much at stake, Qatar will hope to channel that same fighting spirit to keep their World Cup journey alive.
