Qatar’s national football team is set to face Zimbabwe in an international friendly on November 17 at Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium in Doha, as part of their preparations for the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 and the FIFA World Cup 2026. Head coach Julen Lopetegui yesterday unveiled a 26-player squad for the upcoming training camp and friendly match.
The match, scheduled to kick off at 7:30pm, will feature a blend of seasoned internationals and emerging talents from the Qatar Stars League. Lopetegui’s selection marks a new phase in Qatar’s build-up to the FIFA World Cup 2026, with several star players being rested for the friendly.
Qatar’s Squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers
The new squad includes goalkeepers Meshaal Barsham and Mahmoud Abu Nada, alongside defenders such as Tariq Salman and Lucas Mendes. Midfielders like Asim Madibo and Jassim Jaber are also part of the team, while forwards Mohammed Muntari and Youssef Ayman are expected to play key roles.
However, several star players have been excluded from the squad, including attacking duo Akram Afif and Almoez Ali. Defenders Boualem Khoukhi, Karim Boudiaf, and Pedro Miguel, along with winger Edmilson Junior and midfielder Abdulaziz Hatem, are also among those sitting out this fixture.
FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 Group Stage
According to Lopetegui, the November camp is an opportunity to give younger players international exposure and to assess tactical options as Qatar continues building toward next year’s FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The draw for the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 has placed the home side in Group A, alongside Tunisia, the winner of the Syria–South Sudan play-off, Palestine, and Libya.
The team’s performance in the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 will be crucial in determining their progress to the next stage. A strong showing in the tournament could boost Qatar’s chances of advancing to the knockout stages.
Preparations and Expectations
Lopetegui’s strategy for the friendly match against Zimbabwe is likely to focus on testing new players and formations. The match will provide valuable experience for the younger players and help the coaching staff to fine-tune their tactics.
As Qatar continues to prepare for the FIFA World Cup 2026, their performance in the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 will be closely watched. The team’s progress in the tournament will be an important indicator of their readiness for the World Cup qualifiers.
The next step for Qatar will be to continue their preparations for the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025, with the tournament expected to take place in 2025. The team’s performance in the tournament will be crucial in determining their chances of advancing to the knockout stages.
