Reigning Asian champions Qatar are set to make history this week when they will make their debut at Copa America being hosted in Brazil. Qatar are featuring in the prestigious tournament as a guest team along with continental rivals Japan. It will be a stern test for the FIFA 2022 World Cup hosts as they will be up against the oppositions with higher caliber and plenty of experience.
Al Annabi coach Felix Sanchez, who guided the side to the historic Asian Cup triumph against all odds in February, has described his team’s participation as ‘a significant step in Qatar’s World Cup journey’.
As Qatar will look to leave mark in their first World Cup appearance and that too at home, the team, which comprises mostly youngsters, will gain huge experience by playing against the Latin American opponents, who have been highly successful at international stage over the years.
Qatar’s group includes giants Argentina, powered by superstar Lionel Messi, and Colombia, who have been always impressive whether at World Cup or the Copa America. Paraguay with a rich football history will be Al Annabi’s other group opponents.
Results for Qatar in the top-notch event will matter less, but the players’ attitude playing against the world class opponents will be of huge significance.
The Qatari youngsters in recent months have proved they can thrive under pressure or against big opponents.
On June 5, they put up a brave show in 2-0 defeat to Brazil in friendly in front of their home spectators at Brasilia’s Mane Garrincha Stadium. Earlier this year, the Qatari youngsters defied hostile atmosphere in the UAE to win the Asian Cup after seven consecutive victories.
In the build up for Asian Cup last November, the Sanchez’s men also stunned the then World No.8 Switzerland 1-0 on their home soil and also played out a 2-2 draw against another World Cup side Iceland. In their last game prior to the tournament on Sunday, Qatar defeated Brazilian club Madureira 2-1 to gain confidence ahead of the event.
Qatar will begin their Copa America campaign against Paraguay on June 16 before taking on Colombia on June 20. They will face Messi’s Argentina on June 23.
The team, which has ambitious and talented players like Almoez Ali, Akram Afif and Abdul Karim Hassan, has the potential to do well in the tournament.
A positive performance in Copa America will boost players’ confidence which can do wonders for the national team in their preparations for the home World Cup.
Sanchez, who is contracted with Al Annabi till the FIFA showpiece event, will have a fair idea of where his players stand against the world class sides after the tournament, and he will have more than three years to work on their weaknesses and hone their skills.
