Doha: In preparation for the Asian playoff round of 2026 World Cup qualifying,  Qatar fell to a 4-1 defeat against Russia in a friendly match at Al-Sadd Club's Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium.

Russian players controlled the match with goals from four different scorers: Alexander Golovin (33'), Matvey Kislyak (35'), Ivan Sergeyev (45'), and Alexey Miranchuk (69'). Qatari striker Akram Afif managed a consolation goal in the 62nd minute for the hosts.

This result follows Qatar's previous friendly against Bahrain that ended in a 2-2 draw, demonstrating inconsistent form during the current international window.

The upcoming Asian playoff will see Qatar compete in Group 1 against the United Arab Emirates and Oman, while Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Indonesia form Group 2. Qatar and Saudi Arabia will host their respective groups in a centralized format from October 8-14.

The playoff format dictates that group champions earn direct qualification to the 2026 World Cup. The runners-up from each group will contest a two-legged playoff on November 13 and 18, with the victor progressing to the global intercontinental playoff.