Qatar QAT

Four years after hosting the world's biggest tournament, Qatar arrive at the 2026 World Cup as a very different proposition — quieter, less scrutinised, and perhaps all the better for it. Ranked 55th in the world by FIFA and competing under the AFC banner, the Maroons stumbled through qualifying but will be hoping that a much lower profile in these finals works in their favour.

At the helm is Julen Lopetegui, one of the most experienced coaches in world football. His blueprint is clear: absorb pressure, stay compact, and punish opponents on the counter-attack. It is a pragmatic approach that suits a squad unlikely to dominate possession against stronger nations, and Lopetegui's pedigree gives Qatar a tactical foundation they have rarely enjoyed at this level.

The concern, however, is at the back. Qatar's defence was alarmingly porous during qualifying, shipping 24 goals across 10 matches in the main section — a figure that will need dramatic improvement if they are to survive the group stage. Compounding matters, regional conflict caused significant disruption to their preparation, leaving questions about cohesion and match sharpness heading into the tournament.

Their hopes will rest heavily on a squad that includes goalkeeper Meshaal Barsham, the experienced Hassan Al-Haydos, and the creative threat of Akram Afif. Almoez Ali leads the attacking line, while Pedro Miguel, Karim Boudiaf, Assim Madibo, Abdulaziz Hatem, Ayoub Alawi, Yusuf Abdurisag, Boualem Khoukhi, and Hashmi Hussein round out a group with genuine quality in pockets.

Qatar will not be anyone's idea of favourites, but with Lopetegui organising them intelligently and the pressure of a home tournament firmly in the rear-view mirror, they could yet spring a surprise on an unsuspecting opponent.