All roads in the country will lead to the Jassim bin Hamad Stadium today as Qatar takes on Oman in the first of two crucial AFC Asian Qualifiers – Road to 26 Playoffs Group A matches. The game will kick off at 6pm.

With only one automatic qualification spot available in the group, both sides will be keen to take a win. UAE is the other team hoping to advance to next year’s global showpiece competition.

Qatar will be looking to feature in their second FIFA World Cup on the trot, after hosting the 2022 event. However, they are in modest form. They have lost two and drawn a game since coach Julen Lopetegui took charge, including a heavy 1-4 defeat at home against Russia last month.

While 34-year-old captain Hassan Al Haydos has been brought out of international retirement, the mercurial Akram Afif will play a stellar role in Qatar’s attacks.

They lost their friendly games against Lebanon (0-1) and Russia, and drew Bahrain 2-2. Lopetegui’s side will be keen to improve on their recent record against Oman (a win, a loss and a draw). The country will rely on Almoez Ali to deliver the goods, with Afif providing the creative spark.

Speaking on the eve of the match, Lopetegui said the players had prepared in all aspects — physical, technical, and tactical — given the high significance of the match.

“We’re aware of the magnitude of the responsibility placed on our shoulders to achieve our dream of qualifying for the World Cup finals, having played in the previous tournament as hosts. We’ll do our best to achieve this goal,” the Spaniard said.

Centre-back Boualem Khoukhi said the team’s morale was high and playing on home turf would help.

“We’re ready for the match, which will not be easy. The players’ morale is high, and we seek to stay focused. The presence of our fans will be a great incentive for the players and motivate them to achieve victory,” he said.

Oman, seeking a maiden FIFA World Cup appearance, will have the experienced Carlos Queiroz guiding them. The Portuguese tactician has focused on shaping the side into a more organized and disciplined unit since taking over in July.

Queiroz will once again turn to Issam Al Sabhi to spearhead the attack, with the 28-year-old in fine form after netting three goals in his last four national team appearances.

“We’re excited to begin our campaign against Qatar. The team has prepared well and we believe in our ability to get a positive result to kick off our journey,” said Queiroz.

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