Qatar, the defending champions, kick off the AFC Asian Cup as they host Lebanon in the opening match of the tournament.
Qatar won the title in 2019 but has undergone changes since then, including a coaching switch from Felix Sanchez to Carlos Queiroz and, more recently, Tintin Marquez.
Match Preview
Qatar, hosting the AFC Asian Cup for the third time, has seen changes in leadership, including the recent appointment of Tintin Marquez.
They enter the tournament as defending champions but have faced challenges, including a coaching change and a recent defeat to Jordan.
The team aims to start the competition on a positive note, considering their historical success against Lebanon, having not lost in the last six meetings.
Lebanon seeks redemption for their 2019 AFC Asian Cup heartbreak, where they narrowly missed progressing to the last 16.
Ranked 107th globally, they are the lowest-ranked team in Group A. Despite being the underdogs, Lebanon targets a strong performance against teams like Tajikistan and China.
Team News
Qatar faces setbacks with Mohamed Muntari’s ankle injury, ruling him out of the tournament. Osama Al Tairi withdrew due to a cruciate ligament tear.
Lebanon’s Hassan Maatouk receives support with the addition of Omar Bugiel and Daniel Lajud to the squad.
Predicted Lineups
Qatar: (4-3-2-1)
Al-Sheeb;
Miguel, Khoukhi, Mendes, Ahmed;
Hatem, Al Ahraq, Al Haydos;
Mohammad, Afif;
Ali
Lebanon: (4-2-3-1)
Khalil;
Zein, Shour, Sabra, El Zein;
Srour, Haidar;
Maatouk, Al Haj, Lajud;
El-Helwe
Prediction: Qatar 2-0 Lebanon
Qatar is the favorite, given their defending champion status and home advantage. Expecting an energetic atmosphere, Qatar aims for a strong start, and we predict a 2-0 victory over Lebanon in the tournament opener.
