DOHA – Qatar were defeated 4–1 by Russia in a friendly match played today at Jassim bin Hamad Stadium, part of their preparations for the upcoming AFC fourth-round playoffs for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Akram Afif netted Qatar’s only goal in the 61st minute, while Russia struck through Aleksandr Golovin (33’), Matvey Kislyak (35’), Ivan Sergeev (45’), and Aleksei Miranchuk (68’).
It was Qatar’s second international test of the September FIFA window, following their 2–2 draw with Bahrain last Wednesday.
Currently ranked 53rd in the world, Qatar have been drawn in Group A of the playoff round alongside the UAE and Oman. Group B features Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Indonesia.
The playoffs will be staged in a single round-robin format from October 8 to 14, with Qatar hosting Group A and Saudi Arabia hosting Group B.
Qatar open their campaign against Oman on October 8 before facing the UAE on October 14. The UAE and Oman will meet on October 11.
Under the format, the top team from each group will qualify directly for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while the runners-up will contest a two-legged playoff on November 13 and 18. The winner will then advance to the intercontinental playoff for a final qualification spot.