Baghdad-INA
The sixth round of the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup begins today, Tuesday, with (9) matches.
The tour witnesses many important matches for the Arab teams. In the first group, the UAE and Qatar teams meet, the North Korean team faces its Uzbek counterpart, while the Iran team meets Kyrgyzstan.
In the second group competitions, our national team will meet its Omani counterpart, while Palestine will play with South Korea, and the Kuwaiti national team will face Jordan.
In the third group competitions, the Saudi national team will play with Indonesia, and the Bahrain national team will meet with Australia, while China will face its Japanese counterpart.
How has the performance of Middle Eastern football teams evolved in recent international competitions?
Interview with Dr. Ahmed Al-Mansoori, Sports Analyst and Middle Eastern Football Expert
Q: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Al-Mansoori. The Asian qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup have officially started. Can you share your insights on the significance of this sixth round for the Arab teams?
A: Thank you for having me. This sixth round is crucial because it sets the stage for the World Cup aspirations of several Arab teams. With matches like the UAE vs. Qatar and Iran vs. Kyrgyzstan, there’s a lot at stake. Qualifying for the World Cup is not just about football; it’s about national pride and unity. The results from these matches could invigorate support for the teams and could influence future investments in football across the region.
Q: The first group features competitive matches among teams like the UAE and Qatar. How do you see these two teams performing against each other?
A: The match between UAE and Qatar is particularly intriguing. Both teams have shown considerable development in recent years. While the UAE has a more experienced squad, Qatar possesses a strong attacking lineup. I anticipate a tightly contested match; the result could hinge on tactical discipline and the ability to capitalize on set pieces, which both teams are strong at. This match will likely set the tone for their subsequent games.
Q: In the second group, our national team is up against Oman. What are the key factors that could influence this match?
A: The encounter with Oman is critical for our national team. Key factors include player fitness, tactical adaptability, and home advantage, as a strong local crowd can significantly boost team morale. Historically, the matches between these two teams have been competitive, so the psychological aspect is essential. The players need to maintain composure and execute their game plan effectively.
Q: With countries like Saudi Arabia and Bahrain also competing, what challenges do you think they will face in their respective matches?
A: Saudi Arabia’s match against Indonesia and Bahrain’s with Australia are indeed challenging. Saudi Arabia should capitalize on their superior squad depth and technical skills against Indonesia. However, if they underestimate their opponent, it could lead to surprises.
Bahrain vs. Australia is a more daunting task. Australia has a robust footballing structure and experience on the international stage. Bahrain will need to employ a strong defensive strategy and take their chances on the counterattack to have a shot at a positive result.
Q: considering the wide array of matches taking place, what practical advice would you give fans who want to engage with the qualifiers?
A: For fans looking to engage with the qualifiers, I recommend staying updated on match schedules and player performances. Following various sports news platforms, including social media accounts that focus on Asian football, will provide real-time updates and insights. Participating in discussions online, or even gathering with other fans to watch matches can enhance the experience. Furthermore, understanding the historical contexts of these fixtures will enrich the viewing experience, making it more than just a game but a celebration of regional football culture.
Q: Thank you, Dr. Al-Mansoori, for your valuable insights into the Asian qualifiers. We look forward to seeing how the Arab teams perform as they pursue their World Cup dreams.
A: Thank you for having me. It’s an exciting time for Asian football, and I share your anticipation for these upcoming matches!