In a nail-biting finish that had fans on the edge of their seats, Qatar has secured their spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, clinching a thrilling 2-1 victory over the United Arab Emirates in a crucial AFC third-round qualifier at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium in Doha. It is the 2nd time in the history of FIFA that Qatar Qualifies for the FIFA World Cup.
The win, sealed by second-half headers from captain Boualem Khoukhi and Almoez Ali, marks Qatar’s return to the tournament just four years after hosting the 2022 edition—making them the 24th team to qualify for the expanded 48-nation spectacle co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
Qatar Qualifies Match Recap: Headers and Heartbreak in Doha
The match kicked off with high tension, as both teams knew a win was essential for direct qualification. UAE struck first in the 38th minute through Caio Lucas, putting Qatar under pressure and silencing the home crowd momentarily. But the Maroons, under coach Carlos Queiroz, refused to back down.
The turning point came early in the second half: At the 49th minute, Khoukhi rose highest to nod in a corner from Akram Afif, leveling the score at 1-1 and igniting the stadium.
The drama peaked in the 72nd minute when Almoez Ali, the 2022 Golden Boot winner, powered home another header from a pinpoint cross, sending Qatar into ecstasy and confirming their berth with 20 points from 10 matches in Group A.
UAE pushed for an equalizer but couldn’t break through Qatar’s resilient defense, led by goalkeeper Meshaal Barsham’s crucial saves. The final whistle sparked wild celebrations, with players and fans flooding the pitch in a sea of maroon.
Post-match, Khoukhi, the match-winner, told reporters: “This is for Qatar and our people. Hosting in 2022 was special, but playing there in 2026 will be unforgettable.” Queiroz added, “We showed character tonight—now the focus shifts to preparing for North America.”
What This Means for Qatar and the 2026 Tournament
Qatar’s qualification is a massive boost for Asian football, joining six other AFC teams already through: Australia, Iran, Japan, Jordan, South Korea, and Uzbekistan. With one more direct spot and an inter-confederation playoff berth still up for grabs, the race intensifies for teams like Saudi Arabia and Iraq.
For the Qatar National Football Team, it’s redemption after a disappointing 2022 group stage exit as hosts. The 2026 draw in December will reveal their group, but expect them in a pot with familiar foes.
Globally, 28 teams are now locked in, including hosts USA, Canada, Mexico, and powerhouses like England, Brazil, Saudi Arabia, and Argentina. The expanded format promises more upsets and underdog stories—Qatar could be one of them.
Full List of Qualified Teams for 2026 FIFA World Cup (As of October 15, 2025)
| Confederation | Qualified Teams |
|---|---|
| Hosts | USA, Canada, Mexico |
| UEFA | England |
| CONMEBOL | Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador, Paraguay, Uruguay |
| AFC | Australia, Iran, Japan, Jordan, Qatar, South Korea, Uzbekistan, Saudi Arabia |
| CAF | Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Algeria, Ghana, Cape Verde, South Africa, Ivory Coast, Senegal |
| CONCACAF | – |
| OFC | New Zealand |
Total: 28 qualified, with more to come in November.
