Qatar vs Lebanon Prediction: The Maroons Will Not Be Intimidated In Their Own Turf

Qatar will welcome Lebanon to the Lusail Stadium in the first round of the AFC Asian Cup.

Having stunned the world to win their first ever AFC Asian Cup in 2019, host nation Qatar will be out to defend their title this time around as they find themselves the favorites to top Group A.

Let's have a look at the latest AFC Asian Cup predictions between Qatar vs. Lebanon, probable lineups, match facts and betting odds for you to consider!

Note: Odds are subject to change at any time!

Qatar

FIFA Ranking: 58th

Having hosted the 2022 FIFA World Cup, where their performance was lackluster, crashing out of the group stages, Qatar will be out for redemption in the 2023 Asian Cup, where they currently boast the hosting rights for the third time following the removal of China from that title due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to the postponement of the competition initially scheduled for 2023.

Qatar made headlines five years ago to win their first Asian Cup silverware, where they saw off the threat of maestros Japan winning 3-1 at the Zayed Sports City Stadium and will be seeking continued success once again this year, although it won't be an easy feat this time around considering the intense competition that is lurking.

Probable Starting XI

Formation: 4-3-3

Al-Sheeb; Miguel, Khoukhi, Mendes, Ahmed; Hatem, Al Ahraq, Al Haydos; Mohammad, Afif; Ali

Lebanon

FIFA Ranking: 107th

Lebanon might not have Asian Cup silverware to flaunt about, but hosting the competition back in 2000 goes down as a huge achievement in their history books for a side that does not boast a rich football history.

Their most recent participation in this competition was in 2019, with the UAE being the hosts. However, it's worth mentioning that this was their first appearance in 19 years, and their chances of success seemed as faint as a whisper in a crowded room, finishing third in Group E, compromising the current hosts Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and North Korea. The Cedars are aiming for a prosperous run this time, enhancing their qualification prospects in Group A, where they share space with China, Tajikistan, and Qatar.

Probable Starting XI

Formation: 4-2-3-1

Khalil; Zein, Shour, Sabra, El Zein; Srour, Haidar; Maatouk, Al Haj, Lajud; El-Helwe

Match Facts

• Qatar has won seven consecutive matches in the AFC Asian Cup.
• Lebanon have won one of their last six consecutive matches.
• Qatar averages 1.8 goals per game when playing at home, and Lebanon averages 1.3 goals per game when playing away.

Head-To-Head

In the last 5 meetings, Qatar have won 4 times, Lebanon have won 0 times, and there have been 1 draw, with the goal difference being 10-1 in favor of Qatar.

Expert Betting Tips

Qatar are the better side on paper compared to Lebanon, who are tipped for another lackluster display in the AFC Asian Cup competition. The hosts have won three consecutive home matches in this competition, preserving clean sheets in those triumphs, and taking on a Lebanon side should be a walk in the park.

The away side may be overwhelming underdogs in this one, but their solid defense shouldn't be taken for granted as they have consistently excelled in that aspect whenever the situation demands it. As such, we anticipate the host nation, Qatar, to pick up a comfortable win, with the total going under 3.5 goals.

• W1 & TU 3.5 for 1.82
• Half With Most Goals - 2nd Half for 2.10
• Both Halves Under 1.5 - Yes for 2.20