Qatar predictions, squad details, manager and tournament odds for the World Cup 2022, brought to you by the Ranks FC team.
Qatar have waited 12 years for this moment and must now deal with the pressure as the host nation.
There is no hiding the fact most of us will have all seen little - if any - of Qatar in the build up to the tournament. But over the past few years they have travelled the globe to give their players as much experience and preparation as possible for the most important three matches of their lives.
Qatar have never appeared at the World Cup yet have matches against Ecuador, Senegal and Netherlands to make their mark on the game.
Who is the Qatar manager?
Qatar will be led by Felix Sanchez, a Spanish coach who has been part of the Doha Aspire Academy since 2006. He worked his way through younger age groups before settling as the senior boss in 2017 and while it was expected that Qatar would look to name a high profile name ahead of this tournament, he held onto the job.
It looks a good decision as Sanchez knows this group of players inside out and led them to success in the Asian Cup in 2019, with a win over Japan in the final.
This is a man who learnt his trade at Barcelona but has adapted himself to understand the culture and expectations of Qatar. He’s the perfect man for this moment.
What tactics can we expect from them at the World Cup?
Their style of play is more advanced than many football fans will expect from a nation that are making their World Cup bow. They are well structured and enjoy high pressing.
A lot of friendly matches have been played in the build up to the tournament but more than that around half the squad also play for the same club team: Al Sadd.
They are Qatar’s leading club and the reigning champions of the Qatar Stars League. Formerly coached by Barcelona’s Xavi, they have been taught a passing style that makes them a very well connected team.
Their formation will flip between a 5-3-2 out of possession to a 3-5-2 in possession and once on the front foot they will look to attack with pace. We should expect a few goals from this side - they were top scorers at the 2019 Asian Cup and the 2021 Gold Cup.
Who are the players to watch for Qatar?
Hassan Al-Haydos is the epitome of Captain Leader Legend for Qatar. He wears the armband, has made more appearances than anyone else as he heads towards 200 appearances, and he is extremely influential.
He’s likely to line up on the right side of midfield for Qatar but can also be expected to weigh in with goals.
You will notice Qatar work frantically to win back the ball in the centre of the field and his experience will be key to helping his side ensure they do not lose control of any game.
Who is favourite to be top scorer for Qatar?
When Qatar need a goal they look for Almoez Ali to deliver. He was top scorer at the 2019 Asian Cup and 2021 Gold Cup and plays brilliantly off strike partner Akram Afif.
The pair have a great understanding and Afif’s creative nose helps Ali sniff out the chances that can help Qatar cause a shock.
If The Maroon are going to make it out the group, this man will need to deliver goals. Qatar have every faith in him being able to do that.
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How did Qatar qualify for the World Cup?
Qatar are the hosts so qualified automatically. They have been playing games all over the world to ensure they have a competitive edge for this tournament.
They have even appeared at Copa America in their attempts to become relevant and recognised on a global level. Outside of that, they have been organising as many friendly matches as possible, even taking on club sides like Udinese, Antwerp and Mallorca - and they played Croatia’s U-23 team too.
What are the ambitions for this Qatar team?
The ultimate aim is to get out of their group but small steps are needed and the first realistic aim is to win a match. A victory in this tournament will be a huge feat as they take this bold step into the World Cup. Their preparation is helped by the fact they have been playing regularly together of late, whilst other players from competing nations were tied down to club commitments.
Qatar World Cup Odds
The hosts are ready for action and hope they can catch everyone by surprise. Their opening match with Ecuador is a huge occasion which will bring an audience unlike anything this side have ever known - but they feel there is nothing to lose and everything to gain.
This is a unique, special moment for Qatar. They are 16/1 to win Group A, 9/2 to qualify from the group and a huge 500/1 to win the World Cup.
