Team Qatar ready to make nation proud at World Cup 2026, says Abu Nada
DOHA: Qatar goalkeeper Mahmoud Abu Nada says the national team is fully prepared to rise to the challenge of the FIFA World Cup 2026 and deliver performances that reflect the remarkable progress of Qatari football.
Speaking in an interview released by the Qatar Football Association (QFA), Abu Nada described qualifying for the World Cup through the qualification process for the first time as an unforgettable achievement.
The goalkeeper credited Qatar’s supporters for playing a crucial role in the team’s successful Asian playoff campaign last October, highlighting the impact of their backing throughout the journey to qualification.
“Our goal is to represent Qatar in the best possible way and make our fans proud,” Abu Nada said. “We want to show the development of Qatari football on the world stage.”
The shot-stopper also reflected on his international career, recalling the pride he felt when he received his first national team call-up in 2020. Since then, he said, he has been determined to give everything for the national side whenever called upon.
Abu Nada praised head coach Julen Lopetegui and his staff for their work in preparing the squad, noting that the Spanish coach continually motivates players to perform at their highest level in both training and matches.
He also emphasized the importance of fan support, particularly during the decisive playoff victory over the United Arab Emirates, and expressed hope that Qatari supporters will once again be present in large numbers during the World Cup.
Qatar continue their preparations for the tournament and will begin their campaign against Switzerland in San Francisco on June 13 before facing Canada in Vancouver on June 18. Al Annabi will conclude their group-stage fixtures against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Seattle on June 24.
