Qatar take on the visitors Bahrain in a Friendly International match. The match will be played on Wednesday, September 3rd at Al Thumama Stadium (Doha).
Qatar are preparing for the next stage of their World Cup qualifying campaign. The “Burgundy” made their World Cup debut in 2022, but only because they had the privilege of hosting the tournament. Their campaign ended in disappointment, with three defeats and a goal difference of 1-7. Still, they remain proud of their Asian Cup triumph in 2019 and their successful title defense in the following edition. In the most recent World Cup qualifiers, however, they managed only 13 points from 10 matches, finishing fourth in their group. This time, they will have another chance, with new coach Julen Lopetegui tasked with preparing the side for crucial matches against Oman and the UAE in October. Unsurprisingly, they began this training camp well in advance, at the end of the summer. Their recent friendlies have shown inconsistency, but Lopetegui is clearly experimenting with tactics and lineups. With several players featuring regularly in Europe, the squad still has potential to raise their level.
| 2 x £10 Free Bet | Review | |||
| 100$-500$ for No Lose Free Bets | Review | |||
| 100% up to £200 | Review | |||
| Not available | Review |
Bahrain can only look back fondly at the early 2000s, when they reached intercontinental playoffs in 2005 and 2009. Their Asian Cup record is modest too, highlighted by a fourth-place finish in 2004, with Round of 16 exits in both 2019 and 2023. In the latest World Cup qualifiers, though, the team fell apart: just one win, six points, and a last-place finish in their group. As a result, coach Dragan Talajić and his squad have little to prepare for right now, aside from their Arab Cup clash with Djibouti in November. For now, this camp is more about maintaining fitness than chasing any real goals. As usual, the core of the squad is made up of domestic league players, with only a couple of professionals from neighboring countries. Their recent form has been uninspiring, with poor scoring output and frequent defensive errors. Even their friendly results suggest they are struggling to stay competitive at international level.
Surprisingly, in 2021 Qatar defeated their neighbors for the first time in years. But just two years later, the “Pearl Divers” struck back and claimed revenge. Home advantage could play a decisive role here. Our bet: Qatar to secure a win over their Gulf neighbors.
Prediction for the match: Qatar to win.
