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This is not the way things Qatar would’ve wanted things to end.
The host nation has been one of the biggest disappointments from what has been an otherwise thrilling group stage, in which 14 of the 16 nations are still in with a chance of qualifying for the knockout rounds heading into the final round of group stage matches.
Qatar, along with Canada, are the only nations officially eliminated at this stage of the competition after their first two matches.
Of the pair, Qatar has been the most disappointing nation. So much was invested in the development of this team over so many years, that the meek nature of their exit will leave a sour taste long after the tournament has finished.
This is a team we know is capable of playing at a higher level than what they’ve produced over the past nine days, and for that reason there will need to be a deep examination from within the QFA as to exactly what went wrong.
Was it the preparation? Was it the pressure? Was it any one of a thousand different things that could have impacted their readiness for this tournament.
That leaves Qatar in the cliched position of just playing for pride going into their final game tonight at the Al Bayt Stadium against a Dutch side still needing something from this encounter to advance to the knockout rounds.
Given this will be Qatar’s last involvement in this World Cup, it stands to reason that this could also be Felix Sanchez’s last involvement with the Qatar national team.
While there have been suggestions he may continue on after the conclusion of the World Cup, it is surely better for all concerned if this is where the relationship ends. Sanchez has contributed an enormous amount to Qatari football, and his success at the Asian Cup in 2019 in trying circumstances is something that will go down in the significant history of Qatari football.
But it is clear that there is a need for a fresh voice, fresh ideas and fresh players, and the best person to deliver that is a fresh coach.
Given his contribution it is sad that this is how it may end, but such is the way of football at times.
Against a Dutch side with something to play for Qatar will find it difficult, but have the motivation to finish their first ever World Cup with something on the board. It’s unlikely, however, given the form so far that that will be enough.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
MOHAMMED MUNTARI – Whatever happens against the Dutch the striker has already etched his name into history by scoring Qatar’s first ever World Cup goal. Given the energy and dynamism he has shown off the bench in the first two outings, a first start may come his way as a reward for his good form and this is his chance to press his case for more regular minutes going forward.
AKRAM AFIF – After a quiet opening game, Afif was Qatar’s most lively player in their loss to Senegal that ultimately eliminated them from the World Cup. Regarded as this generation’s most talented player, if Afif has any aspirations of playing in Europe then this is his shop window to show he belongs at a higher level.
HASSAN AL-HAYDOS – The veteran midfielder has been one of many who have disappointed in this World Cup. As one of the older players in the squad, it is possible that this may be his only World Cup, so he will be determined to get in one good performance before bowing out.
WHAT THEY SAID
Felix Sanchez – Qatar coach
“If I go back in time? It’s easy to talk about things after it’s over.
“I think we have prepared in the best possible way, but everything has to be considered in perspective, we have been working with this group for a long time.
“Sometimes things don’t go the way you want them to.
“We played against the African champions (Senegal), and Ecuador is a strong team, and we have a difficult match against the Netherlands tomorrow.
“If we continue to work on a daily basis, I think we can reduce the gap with the other teams and achieve something.
“The last cycle ended with winning the Asian Cup, then the new one began in the Copa America and the Gold Cup and ends with the World Cup.
“We are turning a page and starting a new one. Qatar are committed to football at all levels and will continue to prepare for a new tournament and play at the highest level.”
PREDICTIONS
Scott McIntyre
Qatar 0-3 Netherlands
Michael Church
Qatar 0-3 Netherlands
Paul Williams
Qatar 1-3 Netherlands
Martin Lowe
Qatar 1-3 Netherlands
Photo: FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images
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