Arab Cup Redemption: Lopetegui Looks to rebound as Qatar face Syria after star’s injury
3 December 2025
Match Preview and Team Updates
Julen Lopetegui, head coach of the Qatar national team, said his players intend to deliver a stronger performance and post a positive result when they face Syria on Thursday at Khalifa International Stadium in the Arab Cup Group A second round.
The Spaniard confirmed that Asim Madbou's journey with Qatar in the Arab Cup has ended after an injury suffered in the opening loss to Palestine.
Lopetegui told the press that the team must be ready to show a better display against Syria and that every player should give his all to make up for the defeat in the opening match.
He added that the team must stay confident in its players despite the challenges and focus fully on the task of beating a Syria side that performed well in their previous match, a victory over Tunisia.
The coach also described the Arab Cup as a fast-moving competition where wins and losses quickly shape the progress, and stressed the need to keep going to reach the deeper rounds of the tournament.
Balance and Renewal
Abdulaziz Hatim, a Qatar player, said the squad is ready for the Syria game and described preparations as solid, stressing the importance of victory to restore balance and strengthen their bid for a quarterfinal spot.
In the press conference he said Qatar prepared well for the Syria match and that the result will be crucial to restore balance and keep fighting for a place in the knockout stage.
He added that they forgot the Palestine loss and remain used to playing under pressure, aiming to delight the fans with a big performance and a win that keeps them in contention.
Last Hope and the Road Ahead
Palestine and Syria both seek to build on promising starts after two 1-0 wins in round two, positioning themselves well to advance to the quarterfinals.
Meanwhile, Tunisia and Qatar must regain balance to stay in the race, with a victory needed to hold onto the last hope of qualification, as a loss would end their campaign early.
Punchline: If this Arab Cup keeps moving this fast, coaches will need espresso shots instead of tactical plans.
Punchline: And remember, in football as in life, the ball is round and the jokes are always on the bench until extra time apologizes with a goal.
