Qatar's Win Over Uzbekistan Keeps 2026 World Cup Hopes Alive

Lucas Mendes' dramatic late goal secures crucial win for Qatar as they battle for World Cup qualification.

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Qatar's Win Over Uzbekistan Keeps 2026 World Cup Hopes Alive

In a nail-biting encounter at Doha’s Jassim bin Hamad Stadium, Lucas Mendes’ stoppage-time strike earned Qatar a dramatic 3-2 victory over Uzbekistan, reinvigorating their bid for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The win propelled Qatar to seven points in the qualifiers, narrowing the gap to three points behind Uzbekistan, who sit second in the group following Iran's earlier triumph over DPR Korea.

Qatar’s coach, Tintin Marquez, praised his team's resilience, saying, “Securing these three points was crucial. We controlled the game and capitalized on our opportunities.”

Star striker Almoez Ali opened the scoring in the 25th minute, assisted by AFC Player of the Year Akram Afif. Ali then doubled the lead minutes before halftime, converting another pinpoint delivery from Afif. However, Uzbekistan's Abbosbek Fayzullaev sparked a comeback, scoring two headers in the second half to level the match.

With tensions high and the game seemingly headed for a draw, Mendes’ powerful shot in the 12th minute of added time clinched the win, sending home fans into a frenzy.

Qatar now looks ahead to a critical clash against the UAE, while Uzbekistan prepares to face DPR Korea.

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Qatar's Win Over Uzbekistan Keeps 2026 World Cup Hopes Alive

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