Qatar and DPR Korea seek redemption after opening day defeats

Vientiane: Both Qatar and DPR Korea will be eager to secure their first points in the AFC Asian Qualifiers™ – Road to 26 after suffering narrow defeats on the opening day. Qatar, despite taking an early lead, were stunned 3-1 by the United Arab Emirates at home, undone by a determined second-half comeback from their Gulf rivals.

The loss was unexpected for Qatar, but head coach Marquez Lopez remains optimistic. “The chances in the group are still there and we have nine matches left in the qualifiers, and everything can change in terms of calculations and chances to qualify,” he said.

DPR Korea, meanwhile, put up a strong fight but were edged 1-0 by Uzbekistan. Despite the loss, they left the match with their heads held high, believing they can build on their solid performance. With the upcoming clash against Qatar at a neutral venue in Vientiane, DPR Korea will be confident in their ability to secure a positive result.