Qatar, the 2022 World Cup hosts, are gearing up for the 2026 tournament with a new coach, Julen Lopetegui, and a renewed focus on tactical solidity and exploiting set-piece opportunities. Following a challenging qualification campaign and a disappointing performance in their home tournament, the Maroons are determined to present a more competitive face to the world.
New Leadership, Familiar Challenges
The appointment of Julen Lopetegui in May 2025 marked a new chapter for the Qatari national team. Lopetegui, a former manager for Spain and Real Madrid, inherited a squad whose preparations were disrupted by the cancellation of crucial friendlies against Serbia and Argentina due to geopolitical tensions. His initial tenure saw mixed results, with only one win in eleven games prior to the warm-up matches.
Despite the setbacks, Lopetegui successfully guided Qatar through a tight qualification process. The team finished fourth in their main qualifying group and secured their spot in the finals through a combination of home advantage and crucial performances against Oman and the UAE. This achievement, while a relief, highlighted the areas needing significant improvement.
Tactical Evolution Under Lopetegui
Lopetegui has been experimenting with various formations, but a 4-2-3-1 system is anticipated for the tournament. The lessons learned from the 2022 World Cup, where the hosts faltered early after conceding two goals within the first 31 minutes of their opening match against Ecuador, are a significant consideration.
The emphasis this time is expected to be on a more defensively robust setup, aiming to frustrate opponents and capitalize on counter-attacking chances against group stage rivals Canada, Switzerland, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Defensive frailties were evident during qualifying, with the team conceding 24 goals in 10 games, resulting in a minus-seven goal difference. Lopetegui’s primary task has been to address these defensive vulnerabilities.
A key strategic focus for Qatar will be their proficiency in set-pieces, an area they believe can be a potent weapon. “We are aware of the magnitude of the responsibility placed upon us,” Lopetegui stated. “We will spare no effort and will give everything we have to make the fans who stand behind us and support us happy and proud.”
Key Figures for Qatar
The Coach: Julen Lopetegui
Lopetegui brings a wealth of experience from his time managing at the highest levels in Spain and England. His appointment by Qatar represents a significant opportunity to rebuild his reputation after a tumultuous period. “Life owed me a World Cup,” he remarked upon qualification, emphasizing the personal significance of the achievement. His previous World Cup experience as Spain manager ended abruptly when his move to Real Madrid was announced just before the tournament began, leading to his dismissal.
Star Player: Akram Afif
Akram Afif has emerged as a standout talent in Asian football, particularly since the 2019 Asian Cup where he recorded 10 assists. In the 2023 edition, he was instrumental in Qatar’s triumph, scoring eight goals and famously celebrating a final hat-trick by revealing playing cards from his socks. After brief spells in Europe, Afif returned to Qatar in 2020. The 2026 World Cup presents his prime opportunity to showcase his talent on the global stage, having not fully demonstrated his capabilities in the previous tournament.
One to Watch: Mohamed Al-Mannai
The Tunisian-born Mohamed Al-Mannai offers a significant physical presence in Qatar’s midfield. Versatile enough to play in various roles, the 22-year-old has shown considerable potential. After debuting for Al-Sadd as a teenager, a loan spell at Al-Shamal proved fruitful, contributing five goals and earning him the Under-23 Player of the Season award. Lopetegui appears to be a keen admirer of his abilities.
Unsung Hero: Boualem Khoukhi
Set to turn 36 during the tournament, Boualem Khoukhi represents a veteran presence in the Qatari defense. The Algerian-born defender has earned over 100 caps for his adopted nation, showcasing remarkable versatility and contributing 21 goals. While many of his goals came when playing further forward, he remains a reliable option wherever Lopetegui needs him. His experience, confidence, and professionalism have made him a valued asset for successive national team coaches.
Looking Ahead
Qatar’s journey in the 2026 World Cup will be closely watched as they aim to overcome the ghosts of their previous tournament. The success of Lopetegui’s tactical adjustments, particularly in shoring up the defense and maximizing their set-piece threat, will be crucial. The development of young talents like Al-Mannai, alongside the experience of veterans like Khoukhi and the star power of Afif, will be key factors in determining Qatar’s performance on the global stage.
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