Qatar must maintain ‘100 percent focus’ for win over UAE, says Lopez

Doha: Qatar head coach Marquez Lopez described his team s last minute victory over Uzbekistan as a major morale boost in their FIFA World Cup 2026 qua...

Doha: Qatar head coach Marquez Lopez described his team’s last-minute victory over Uzbekistan as a major morale boost in their FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying campaign but cautioned his players to stay vigilant against the United Arab Emirates in today’s high-stakes clash.

The neighbouring opponents will face off at Abu Dhabi’s Al Nahyan Stadium in a blockbuster Group A game, with both sides aiming for crucial points to bolster their qualifying prospects. 

Qatar and the UAE are tied on seven points, trailing group leaders Iran by six and second-placed Uzbekistan by three. The UAE hold a slight advantage on goal difference having rallied for a 3-1 win over Al Annabi in their opening fixture in September.

Qatar’s campaign has been marred by missed opportunities to hold onto leads. After the UAE match, they surrendered a 2-2 draw to North Korea from a winning position and were overrun 4-1 by Iran after taking an early lead.