Doha: Qatar's head coach Julen Lopetegui has expressed confidence ahead of Thursday's decisive clash against Iran at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium, part of the ninth round of Group A qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The two teams previously met in the fourth round, where Iran secured a 4-1 victory in Dubai.

According to Qatar News Agency, speaking at the pre-match press conference, Lopetegui emphasized Qatar's full readiness and the dedication of the players. He said that they are prepared for tomorrow's match and fully aware of their opponent's strength, stating that the training camp is progressing smoothly, and the players are highly motivated to win. Despite Iran already qualifying for the World Cup, Lopetegui stressed that Qatar's focus remains on their own performance, aiming for victory while analyzing Iran's key strengths.

Lopetegui added that the upcoming match is different from previous encounters, stressing that they respect the opponent, but trust in themselves, urging fans to support them, saying it will provide an extra boost for the team. Qatar forward Akram Afif, the 2023 AFC Player of the Year, underscored the match's importance in securing qualification for the fourth round of qualifiers. Afif said that they need to return to positive results and secure the place in the next phase, stating that they are facing a strong team, but motivated to win and keep World Cup dream alive.

He encouraged fans to fill the stadium and back the team, emphasizing that their presence would be a major driving force. Following a 1-3 loss to Kyrgyzstan in the eighth round, Qatar finds itself in a must-win situation, needing to finish at least fourth to secure a spot in the continental playoff, which grants two additional World Cup berths.

Other Group A fixtures tomorrow include UAE vs. Uzbekistan in Abu Dhabi and North Korea vs. Kyrgyzstan in Riyadh. Iran leads the group with 20 points, followed by Uzbekistan (17), UAE (13), Qatar (10), Kyrgyzstan (6), and North Korea (2). Iran has already secured World Cup qualification. The tenth and final group stage matches take place on June 10, with Qatar facing Uzbekistan in Tashkent, Kyrgyzstan meeting UAE in Bishkek, and Iran playing North Korea in Tehran.

The top two teams from each group qualify directly for the 2026 World Cup, while the third and fourth-placed teams advance to the fourth round, competing for two World Cup berths and one intercontinental playoff spot.