The 2026 FIFA World Cup Asian Qualifiers Match Fourth Round between Oman vs Qatar will be scheduled on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at 5:20 AM GMT-4 at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium, Doha, in Qatar.
The stage is set for a crucial encounter in Doha as the Oman National Football Team faces Qatar National Football Team for the final stage of the Asian World Cup qualification journey.
This high-stakes fixture kicks off the AFC Asian Qualifiers fourth round playoffs, where only victory will keep dreams of reaching the 2026 World Cup alive. Out of 48 teams, 18 have qualified, while most of the teams have been eliminated before the October window for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Oman vs Qatar Match Details & Tournament Context
Table of Contents
- Kick-off: 7:00 PM Oman Time (3:30 PM GMT)
- Venue: Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium, Doha, Qatar
- Competition: AFC Asian Qualifiers – Fourth Round (Group A)
- At Stake: Direct World Cup qualification for the group winner
- Men’s FIFA Ranking –
- Qatar’s ranking – 53rd
- Oman’s ranking – 78th
The fourth round features six teams divided into two groups of three, with Qatar hosting Group A matches alongside the UAE and Oman.
Group winners secure automatic join the the teams of the 2026 World Cup, while runners-up advance to the November playoffs for one final qualification chance.
Oman’s Quest for History
Under the guidance of veteran Portuguese tactician Carlos Queiroz, Oman enters this campaign as the only team among the six seeking their maiden World Cup appearance.
The Red Warriors completed their third round qualification by finishing fourth in Group B with 10 points, securing their playoff spot with a crucial 1-1 draw against Palestine.
Carlos Queiroz’s Impact
The 72-year-old Queiroz, appointed in July 2025, brings extensive World Cup qualification experience having guided Iran to the 2014 and 2018 tournaments.
His impressive resume includes stints with Real Madrid, Portugal, Colombia, and ironically, Qatar itself until his dismissal in December 2023.
“I understand it is a huge challenge, and it is not an easy task. However, it can be a better challenge through our work and clear commitment,” Queiroz stated following his appointment.
The Portuguese coach has emphasized building team discipline and tactical intelligence while calling on Omani fans to become “player No. 12”.
Recent Preparations
Oman concluded intensive training in Turkey before finalizing their 27-man squad for the crucial fixtures.
Key players include goalkeeper Ibrahim Al-Mukhaini, defender Ahmed Al-Khamisi, and midfielder Salah Al-Yahyaei as the Red Warriors seek to capitalize on their historic 2-1 victory over Qatar in the December 2024 Gulf Cup – their first win against the champions since 2009.
Qatar’s Redemption Mission
Qatar enters the playoffs under Spanish coach Julen Lopetegui, who was appointed in May 2025 with the mandate to guide the reigning Asian champions back to World Cup glory.
The Maroons qualified for this stage by finishing fourth in Group A with 10 points, despite suffering a disappointing 5-0 defeat to the UAE in November 2024.qna+2
Tactical Setup Under Lopetegui
Lopetegui, known for his possession-based approach and tactical flexibility, typically employs a 4-3-3 or 4-2-3-1 formation emphasizing defensive organization and controlled build-up play.
The Spanish tactician has acknowledged Qatar’s recent inconsistent form, including a heavy 4-1 loss to Russia and a 2-2 draw with Bahrain in September friendlies.sortitoutsi+1youtube
“What matters now is giving the utmost performance, being in the present moment, and being competitive to surpass Oman and the UAE,” Lopetegui emphasized, despite concerns over key player injuries.
Home Advantage
Qatar enjoys the significant benefit of hosting all Group A matches at their home venue, Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium. The QFA has made tickets available to Qatari fans for QR 25-60, while special arrangements ensure visiting supporters can attend through their respective federations.
Oman vs Qatar Predicted XIs
| Oman Possible Starting XI (4-2-3-1) | Qatar Possible Starting XI (4-2-3-1) |
|---|---|
| Al-Mukhaini (GK) | Barsham (GK) |
| Al-Harthi (RB) | Salman (RB) |
| Al-Khamisi (CB) | Al-Hussain (CB) |
| Al-Musalami (CB) | Bahaa Ellethy (CB) |
| Al-Busaidi (LB) | Al-Hassan (LB) |
| Al-Saadi (CM) | Fathy (CM) |
| Al-Alawi (CM) | Mashaal (CM) |
| Al-Yahmadi (RW / AM side) | Al-Brake (CAM / left side) |
| Fawaz (AM / attacking midfield) | Abdurisag (RW) |
| Al-Mushaifri (LW) | Ali (LW) |
| Al-Sabhi (ST) | Akram Afif (ST) |
Head-to-Head Analysis
The historical record leans strongly in favor of Qatar, which has dominated this matchup with six wins in their last 14 encounters, while Oman has managed just one victory.
However, Oman’s recent 2-1 triumph in the 2024 Gulf Cup has injected newfound confidence into their approach against their Gulf neighbours.
Recent Form:
- Oman: 2 wins, 1 draw, 2 losses in last 5 matches.
- Qatar: Mixed results with concerns over defensive solidity
Key Tactical Battles
Oman’s Approach
Queiroz is expected to deploy a disciplined defensive structure while looking to exploit Qatar’s recent vulnerability on the counter-attack. The Red Warriors’ success will depend on maintaining tactical discipline and capitalizing on set-piece opportunities.
Qatar’s Strategy
Lopetegui’s possession-based philosophy will aim to control the tempo and create sustained pressure through their technical superiority. The Maroons’ attacking threat will center on exploiting wide areas and maintaining defensive stability.
Which is the better team in soccer – Oman vs Qatar?
Qatar is generally the stronger soccer team compared to Oman, with a higher FIFA ranking, better tournament history, and more success in the AFC Asian Cup.
Stakes and Implications
This fixture represents more than just three points – it could determine which team takes a commanding position in Group A.
With the group winner being the only one assured of World Cup qualification, both nations grasp the significance of this clash.
For Oman, victory would represent a historic step toward their first-ever World Cup appearance. For Qatar, anything less than group progression would represent a devastating blow for the reigning Asian champions seeking consecutive World Cup participations.
