Qatar will step onto the pitch at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium in Doha on Sunday for what promises to be a challenging international friendly against Russia.
The encounter comes at a crucial time, with the hosts sharpening preparations for next month’s fourth-round play-offs of the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
We are ready, and all the players are looking to give off their best. It’s going to be a strong match as Russia are a formidable side. The game is important for us, and we will follow the coach’s instructions. We are completely ready for the match and are eyeing a strong performance. We are expecting the home fans to turn out in numbers, which will be very motivating for us.
The fixture is open to the public free of charge, with Qatar hoping for a rousing atmosphere.
From Bahrain Draw to Russian Challenge
This is Qatar’s second friendly of the September international break. Earlier this week, they played out a 2-2 draw with Bahrain in a behind-closed-doors match. Against Russia, however, a strong home crowd is expected. Russia, ranked 35th in the world, arrive in Doha following a goalless draw with Jordan on Thursday. They have won four of their last five matches, and their trademark tactical discipline will present a stern test for the 53rd-ranked Qataris.
Eyes on World Cup Qualification
For Qatar, the Russia game is part of a larger mission: reaching the FIFA World Cup for a second consecutive time, and the first through qualification. Drawn into Group A of the play-offs with Oman and the UAE, Julen Lopetegui’s side will host their matches in Doha between October 8 and 14.
• October 8: Qatar vs Oman
• October 11: Oman vs UAE
• October 14: Qatar vs UAE
The group winners qualify directly for the 2026 finals, while the runners-up will face a two-legged playoff on November 13 and 18. The winner then advances to the intercontinental playoff.
Squad Updates Under Lopetegui
Head coach Julen Lopetegui has made adjustments to his 25-man squad. Ahmed Al Janahi and Ismail Mohammed have been ruled out through injury, with Youssef Abdul Razzaq called up as cover.
Qatar Squad: Meshaal Barsham, Salah Zakaria, Mahmoud Abu Nada, Ahmed Al Rawi, Ahmed Suhail, Ahmed Fathi, Bassam Al Rawi, Al Mahdi Ali, Boualem Khoukhi, Pedro Miguel, Jassim Jaber, Sultan Al Breik, Tariq Salman, Humam Al Amin, Akram Afif, Ahmed Alaa, Edmilson Junior, Asim Madibo, Abdulaziz Hatem, Guilherme Torres, Karim Boudiaf, Mohammed Khaled, Mohammed Manai, Mohammed Muntari, Youssef Abdul Razzaq.
