Qatar’s football scene is abuzz with excitement as the 2024-2025 season kicks off, with local clubs and national teams gearing up for a packed schedule of domestic and international competitions. The season will see the Ooredoo Stars League, Qatar Cup, and Amir Cup in action, as well as the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) Champions League and AFC Asian qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Qatar’s league champions, Al Sadd, and runners-up, Al Rayyan, will be competing in the AFC Champions League Elite tournament, where 24 clubs will battle it out in the group stage starting from September 16. The competition will see each club play against eight opponents within their region in four home and four away matches, with the Round of 16 scheduled for March and the final stage in April.
Other Qatari clubs, such as Al Gharafa and Al Wakrah, will be participating in the AFC Champions League 2 tournament, with hopes of making an impact in their respective group stages. Additionally, Al Arabi will be taking part in the Gulf Cooperation Council Club Cup, adding even more excitement to the football calendar in Qatar.
On the international front, Qatar’s national team will be competing in the third round of the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, facing tough opponents like Iran, Uzbekistan, and the UAE. The team will kick off their matches in September and continue through the following months, aiming to secure a spot in the prestigious tournament.
In addition to their World Cup qualifying campaign, the Qatar national team will also be participating in the Gulf Cup in Kuwait and hosting the Group F qualifiers for the 2025 AFC U-17 Championship. With a busy schedule ahead, Qatar’s football scene is set for an action-packed season that promises thrills and excitement for both players and fans alike.
Lastly, Qatar has been selected to host the next five editions of the U-17 World Cup, with the tournament to be held annually until 2029. This comes on the heels of the successful organization of the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, showcasing the country’s commitment to hosting top-tier football events and further elevating its status in the global football community.
