Lopetegui sets Qatar’s sights on Gulf Cup 27 glory before Saudi Arabia semi-final

Julen Lopetegui says Qatar are targeting the Gulf Cup 27 title rather than simply taking part, despite injuries and limited preparation time before Saturday’s semi-final against Saudi Arabia.

Qatar face the hosts at Al Inmaa Stadium in a match expected to attract a large crowd, with Lopetegui insisting his side are ready to compete against a strong opponent on home territory.

“We made the most of the two days available to prepare, focusing mainly on helping the players recover their energy,” Lopetegui said at his pre-match news conference.

“The line-up is clear to us and everyone is ready to face a strong opponent who will play at home and in front of their supporters.”

The Spanish coach said the atmosphere inside the stadium would motivate rather than unsettle Qatar.

“A full stadium does not represent pressure for us; it is an additional incentive,” he said. “We know the fans will be behind their team, but there are no excuses. We must concentrate on the pitch, defend well and attack with intensity. We have physical, mental and tactical strength.”

Lopetegui also defended Qatar’s performances in the tournament, arguing that their place in the last four demonstrated their ability to challenge for the trophy.

“We created many chances to score, so I disagree with those who believe the Qatar national team is not good enough,” he said. “We have the mentality and the strength to compete, and our presence in the semi-final is proof of that.”

He acknowledged that Qatar are dealing with injuries and a demanding schedule, but said those factors would not be used to explain away a defeat.

“History is important, but we are talking about the present,” Lopetegui said. “We have some injuries and little time, but there are no excuses. We have great confidence and want to produce a strong performance. If we can beat Saudi Arabia, it will be fantastic.”

Lopetegui was equally clear about Qatar’s ambition in the competition.

“We did not come here simply to play or to try out players,” he said. “We are taking the tournament seriously and want to win and give our best. We came here to win the cup.”

The coach remains uncertain whether Akram Afif and Almoez Ali will feature. Afif can operate in several attacking positions but has been ill, while a decision on Almoez Ali will be made after further recovery time.

“Akram Afif can play in more than one attacking position, but he was ill and I still do not know whether he will play tomorrow,” Lopetegui said. “We are capable of competing with or without him.”

“I hope Almoez Ali is able to play and help the team. We will wait until tomorrow morning, after the players have rested and recovered, before making the final decision on the line-up.”

Qatar midfielder Abdulaziz Hatem said the squad were confident ahead of the semi-final.

“Our morale is high and everyone is ready,” he said. “We have two days to prepare, and our focus is entirely on reaching the final. We know how difficult it is to face Saudi Arabia, who have home advantage and the support of their fans.”

Hatem said the circumstances differed from those surrounding the World Cup, with new players involved during a period of transition.

“The World Cup period was different, with new players and a transitional phase,” he said. “This tournament has a different objective, but our mentality is to compete. It is wonderful to play a match in front of more than 50,000 fans.”