HOUSTON, Texas: Fans travelling from Washington, New York and California were a picture of consistency at Qatar’s matches at the Gold Cup group stage.

Hundreds of flag-waving fans have been seen at Qatar’s matches against Panama, Honduras and Grenada. The Asian champions have qualified for the quarterfinals, where they take on El Salvador on Saturday.

Before entering the match venue in Houston last week, fans were also seen purchasing team merchandise at QFA’s kiosks installed around the stadium.

“The wonderful atmosphere created by Qatar fans was an opportunity for various CONCACAF media to witness the kind of fan adulation Qatar team enjoys wherever it plays,” a fan said after Qatar beat Honduras 2-0 on Tuesday.

“The tournament is being staged in the United States, and when you go out in the streets, you can see why this sport is the fastest growing game in the country,” another fan added. “It has been a pleasure to see Arab communities come out and support Qatar,” the fan said.

It is worth mentioning that Qatar is participating in the tournament for the first time.

The overwhelming fan support for the Qatar national team on the tour to the US has been a success story because of diligent efforts by the Marketing and Communications Department of QFA.

The Marketing and Communications Department planned in advance to attract a more significant number of fans in the city of Houston through the various events held at venues where Arab communities and locals visit often.

“As soon as you arrive at the George W. Bush International Airport in Houston, you will find a large sign indicating Qatar national team’s matches in the Gold Cup,” another Qatari fan said.

The Qatar Football Association has also been active on social media platforms to garner support for the national team.

In addition to the keenness of the Marketing and Communications The QFA has also met with members of the Arab communities present in Houston and distributed flyers among fans. Before the start of each Qatar match, fans have been handed over Qatar national team jerseys and flags also.