Doha, Qatar: Asian champions Qatar are set to meet Iran in the final of Jordan International Quad Championship seeking a morale-boosting victory at the Amman International Stadium tonight.
The Carlos Queiroz-coached side booked their berth in the final with a 6-5 shootout win over Iraq after a goalless draw, before Iran defeated hosts Jordan 3-1 on Friday. The losing sides will also square off in a play-off today.
The competing teams are featuring in the tournament – part of international friendlies – to prepare for their 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers and the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 campaigns.
“This tournament is definitely an important opportunity for us to prepare for the Asian Cup and the World Cup Qualifiers,” Queiroz had said ahead of tournament.
Iran – placed 21st in the FIFA rankings - will be favourites against 61st ranked Qatar, coming to the final with a seven-match winning streak. Team Melli were also the winners in last five games against Qatar.
Today’s match will also mark the first time that Queiroz will face Iran after quitting as their coach following the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022. The veteran Portuguese had two stints with Iran also leading the Asian giants in 2014 and 2018 World Cups.
Following victory over Iraq, Queiroz held a couple of training sessions with Al Annabi stepping up preparations during yesterday’s drills in the evening session.
Queiroz will be hoping Qatar put up a strong show and pull off a victory against favourites before they start their FIFA World Cup qualifying battle next month.
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