Doha: Qatar is set to face Kyrgyzstan this Thursday at Al Thumama Stadium in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier. Al-Annabi is aiming for its first win in the campaign to keep their hopes alive for qualifying for the tournament, which will take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. In other Group A matches on the same day, the UAE will face DPR Korea in Al Ain, while Uzbekistan will take on Iran in Tashkent. Uzbekistan currently leads the group with six points, ahead of Iran on goal difference. The UAE has three points, while both DPR Korea and Qatar sit at one point each. Kyrgyzstan is yet to earn any points. Led by coach Marquez Lopez, Qatar, the reigning Asian Cup champions, is determined to claim victory and secure three vital points before their challenging fourth-round match against Iran on October 15. However, Kyrgyzstan has shown resilience in the qualifiers, pushing both Iran and Uzbekistan in their earlier matches. The next round of Group A matches will be held on October 15, with Uzbekistan hosting the UAE, Kyrgyzstan playing DPR Korea in Bishkek, and Qatar facing Iran. The top two teams from each group will qualify directly for the 2026 World Cup, while the third- and fourth-placed teams will enter further rounds to compete for remaining qualification spots. During the pre-match press conference at Al Thumama Stadium, Qatar’s coach Lopez acknowledged the challenge ahead: “We know this match won’t be easy, but our goal is to secure our first win in the qualifiers. All the players are ready, and we need to stay calm and focused.” Qatar defender Jassim Jaber echoed his coach’s sentiments: “We’ve put the past behind us, and we are fully focused on this game. Playing at home, with our fans behind us, gives us great motivation. Our morale is high, and we are ready to win the three points.”