Qatar set for Gulf & Asian Cup double assault

Qatar’s national team will begin their 2026-27 campaign with a packed schedule, starting with Gulf Cup 27 in Jeddah from September 23 to October 6. After a tough run of five matches without a win (0W-1D-4L since losing 0-3 to Tunisia on December 7, 2025), the team aims to bounce back under a new tactical approach.

What’s on the calendar?

The Gulf Cup 27 will see Qatar drawn in Group B alongside UAE, Bahrain, and Yemen. Immediately after, the team shifts focus to the AFC Asian Cup 2027 in Saudi Arabia from January 7 to February 5, 2027, where they will defend their title in Group F against Japan, Thailand, and Indonesia.

Why do these tournaments matter?

These continental competitions follow Qatar’s historic 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign in North America. The Asian Cup defense offers a chance to regain the momentum that delivered back-to-back titles in 2019 and 2023. Qatar will also host the FIFA U-17 World Cup from November 19 to December 13, 2026, featuring 48 teams at Khalifa International Stadium.

What’s next for the team?

Qatar’s technical staff has intensified training sessions ahead of Gulf Cup 27, focusing on quick transitions and counterattacks to break their recent losing streak. The squad is expected to welcome back key players from injuries, which could strengthen their bid for continental glory in both tournaments.