Qatar Football Association (QFA) President Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa bin Ahmed al Thani said the ‘Qatar team has made’ the country proud with their AFC Asian Cup triumph and said the title win will help the organisation develop a strong outfit for 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Battling the odds stacked against them from a hostile playing environment in the UAE, Qatar broke several records on their way to beating Japan 3-1 in the final on Friday.
Qatar scored 19 goals and conceded just one in seven matches.
Coached by Felix Sanchez, Qatar remained unbeaten in the seven fixtures and posted wins against Saudi Arabia, North Korea, Lebanon, Iraq, South Korea, the UAE and four-time champions Japan.
The QFA with the president and members of the Board of Directors was present to honour Al Annabi at a celebration of winning the Asian Cup with the participation of all administrative staff and committees.
“It was a wonderful performance (at the Asian Cup) that showed that this bunch will learn more as they play more,” said the QFA President.
“I think all clubs and players should cooperate more so that the national team keeps getting positive results.
“We deserved this win. We are happy our hard work paid off. I am sure this is a win for the entire Arab world.
“I am confident that we will be able to develop the side further and keep getting stronger before the 2022 FIFA World Cup” he added.
Earlier on Friday soon after Al Annabi’s arrival home on Friday, the QFA President had said, “This is a historic day for Qatar football. The team delivered under pressure. I congratulate the Amir HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad al Thani on this amazing victory for Qatar. The players deserve all the credit for their beautiful performance.”
The QFA chief also thanked Omani fans who backed Al Annabi throughout the three-week long championships.
“I must personally thank the Oman fans. They were supporting our team in all the games. Our fans could not make but they were here in large numbers. It was wonderful to see them show big hearts,” the QFA chief said.
Immediately after the crowning, the Qatari players went to the Omani fans and they raised the flags of the Sultanate and those of Qatar, a matter that was highlighted by social media networks and platforms and was widely admired.
The QFA President said the development of youth football in Qatar is paving the way to get quality players for the national side.
“I am confident we will do well at the 2019 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Poland this year,” the QFA President noted.
“Now we will look at our next competition which is the Copa America in June. That tournament will also help our players get the right kind of exposure,” he said.QFA President Sheikh Hamad says the win will help develop a strong team for 2022 World Cup.
