Qatar’s U-23 national football team is gearing up for the 2026 AFC U-23 Championship in Saudi Arabia under the guidance of Portuguese coach Ilidio Vale. The team has been drawn into Group B alongside Japan, the UAE, and Syria, and qualified for the tournament after topping their group with a perfect record.
The Qatari team secured their spot in the continental finals by finishing ahead of India, Bahrain, and Brunei, accumulating nine points from three matches. This impressive performance has set the stage for their upcoming challenge in Saudi Arabia.
Qatar U-23 Squad Announced
Ilidio Vale has announced a 26-player roster for the Qatari U-23 team, featuring a mix of experienced players and young talent. The squad includes goalkeepers Mohamed Ali, Mohamed Hani, Moaz Ibrahim, Abubakr Mohamed, and Amir Hassan, among others. Several players are currently playing abroad, including Bassam Adel at Calahorra FC in Spain and Ahmed Al Hashemi at Alcorcón, also in Spain.
The team’s preparation for the 2026 AFC U-23 Championship is intensifying, with the players expected to undergo rigorous training to fine-tune their skills. The squad’s composition suggests a balance between defense and offense, with players like Abdullah Mujeeb, Ali Mohammed, and Mehdi Al Muajaba expected to play key roles.
Qatar’s Chances in the 2026 AFC U-23 Championship
Qatar’s qualification for the 2026 AFC U-23 Championship marks a significant milestone for the team’s U-23 national football team. With a strong squad in place, the team is expected to be competitive in Group B. Japan, one of their opponents, is a two-time champion, indicating a high level of competition.
According to reports, the team’s coaching staff is focused on developing a winning strategy that leverages the strengths of the Qatari players. The team’s performance in the tournament will be closely watched, with fans and analysts alike eager to see how they fare against their Asian counterparts.
Tournament Implications
The 2026 AFC U-23 Championship is expected to feature top talent from across Asia, with several teams vying for the coveted title. Qatar’s participation in the tournament is seen as an opportunity for the team to gain valuable experience and exposure on the international stage. The team’s success will depend on their ability to adapt to the tournament’s competitive environment and overcome the challenges posed by their opponents.
As the tournament approaches, fans can expect to see an exciting display of football talent from the participating teams. The outcome of the 2026 AFC U-23 Championship remains uncertain, with several teams in contention for the title.
The next step for Qatar’s U-23 national team is to continue their preparations for the tournament, with the team’s coaching staff expected to make any necessary adjustments to the squad before the competition begins. The exact schedule and format of the tournament have not been announced, but it is expected to take place in Saudi Arabia in 2026.

