Doha: The pre-match press conference for the crucial Asian qualifiers playoff – the Road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico – was held on Monday afternoon ahead of the final Group A encounter between Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. The decisive match will take place at Jassim bin Hamad Stadium at 8 p.m.

Qatar head coach Julen Lopetegui expressed confidence in his side’s readiness for the challenge, emphasizing that the team’s full focus is on securing victory and direct qualification. “We will face a strong team with an excellent coach,” Lopetegui said. “Our focus is entirely on tomorrow’s game without thinking about past results between the two sides. Winning is our only goal to reach the World Cup.”

The Spanish coach added that the players are fully prepared and motivated to bring joy to the nation. “We aim to fulfill the dream of everyone in Qatar by qualifying for the World Cup and making our fans proud. Our players are ready for this much-anticipated clash,” he noted, before concluding: “All our attention is on our team, our players, and their abilities. It’s an even contest, but our goal remains clear – to win tomorrow.”

Qatar midfielder Assim Madibo also spoke about the team’s morale and the vital role of fan support. “Our strength comes from our supporters – they are always our number one player,” he said. “We hope they’ll be there cheering us throughout the match as they always do.”

Qatar midfielder Assim Madibo also spoke about the team’s morale and the vital role of fan support. “Our strength comes from our supporters – they are always our number one player,” he said. “We hope they’ll be there cheering us throughout the match as they always do.”

Madibo added that the atmosphere in camp is positive and determined. “The mood is high, the mindset is right, and we have the mentality to win,” he said. “The match will require complete concentration from everyone, and we’ll do everything to avoid mistakes, stay focused, and deliver the victory our fans deserve.”