Doha: Qatar unleashed their prowess in the second half, securing a resounding 3-0 victory over Kuwait on Thursday, maintaining their flawless record in Group A of the Preliminary Joint Qualification – Round 2 for the FIFA World Cup 2026 and the AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027™. Akram Afif, the standout performer of the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™, showcased his talent by netting twice, positioning the Maroons favourably to potentially secure their berth in the third round of the FIFA World Cup Qualifiers and AFC Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2027 with another triumph over Kuwait in the upcoming fixture on Tuesday. The match witnessed an early opportunity for Qatar as Jassem Garber's thunderous half-volley narrowly missed its mark, leaving Kuwait goalkeeper Sulaiman Abdulghafoor rooted to the spot. A touching moment occurred in the 10th minute when Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium fans honoured former Qatar captain Hassan Al Haydos, who recently retired from international football, by unveiling a banner commemorating the two-time AFC Asian Cup winner. On the field, a defensive lapse in the 15th minute nearly handed Kuwait the lead, but goalkeeper Meeshal Barsham's error was rectified by Lucas Mendes, who cleared Yousef Al Sulaiman's attempt off the line. Qatar's momentum gradually intensified, with Afif, donning the captain's armband, coming close with a curling free-kick that lacked the crucial touch from teammates Almoez Ali and Yusuf Abdurisag. After the break, Marquez Lopez's side surged forward, quickly establishing a two-goal advantage. Afif found the net just two minutes into the second half from close range, followed by substitute Ahmed Alrawi extending the lead in the 51st minute. Capitalizing on Abdulghafoor's spill, Alrawi slotted home a rebound with precision. Qatar's dominance continued as Afif completed his brace in the 68th minute, capitalizing on a rebound to add a third goal for his team. As the game approached its conclusion, Afif selflessly set up Alrawi for another chance, only for the shot to be deflected by a defender. Qatar eased off in the final minutes with a comfortable lead secured, securing a comprehensive victory.