Qatar’s young guns aim to shine at World Cup

Doha, Qatar: Qatar’s final pre-World Cup warm-up against El Salvador in Los Angeles offered another look at Julen Lopetegui’s evolving plans, with the head coach rotating heavily and using almost his entire squad in a goalless draw that carried more tactical value than result pressure.

It was the final test before Qatar head into the FIFA World Cup 2026, where they open against Switzerland on June 13, followed by Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina in Group B.

Lopetegui’s approach throughout the build-up has remained consistent. He has kept a strong core of experienced players while gradually introducing younger options into the setup. The result is a 26-man squad with an average age close to 29, built on stability but with space for less experienced players to step in when required.

For Qatar, the objective in North America is to be competitive after three defeats at their home World Cup in 2022. That is where the younger players come in, not as main figures, but as squad options in specific roles.

Tahsin Mohammed: Teenage spark with Kerala roots

Tahsin Mohammed represents the clearest expression of Qatar’s long-term project. Still only 19, the Al Duhail winger has moved quickly from academy football to the international stage, carrying with him both potential and expectation.

Born in Doha to parents from Kerala’s Kannur district, Tahsin’s rise has drawn attention beyond Qatar, particularly in India where his World Cup selection has been widely followed. A graduate of Aspire Academy, he made history as the first player of Indian origin to feature in the Qatar Stars League.Qatar's Tahsin Mohammed in action during a friendly match against El Salvador on Saturday. (AFP)

On the pitch, his profile is simple but effective. Last season he made 14 appearances for Al Duhail, contributing a goal and an assist, but the numbers only tell part of the story. His value lies in movement and intent rather than output alone.

In this Qatar squad, his role is shaped by those around him. With Akram Afif operating as the creative hub and Almoez Ali leading the line, Tahsin’s task is to add width, stretch defences and bring late-game energy when matches open up. Even limited minutes could be important in tight group games where one moment can shift momentum.

Ayoub Aloui: Young defender trusted in rotation

Ayoub Aloui, 21, has been part of Qatar’s senior setup over the past year and has featured in pre-World Cup friendlies against Ireland and El Salvador. The Al Gharafa defender made his senior international debut during World Cup qualifiers last year. He has been used in central defensive roles in recent matches, reflecting growing trust from the coaching staff.

He was named Qatar Football Association’s Best Under-23 Player for the 2025-26 season after an impressive domestic campaign, where he also scored in the Qatar Stars League.

Aloui is not expected to be a regular starter but remains part of the defensive rotation.

Mohamed Al-Mannai: Midfield option with flexibility

Mohamed Al-Mannai, 22, adds depth to Qatar’s midfield group with his ability to play in multiple roles.

A product of the Al-Sadd system, he developed through the academy before a loan spell at Al Shamal, where he scored five goals in a productive season.

He is comfortable in both holding and advanced midfield positions, giving Lopetegui tactical flexibility in central areas.

Al-Mannai’s development has been steady, and he has been included in the World Cup squad as part of the midfield rotation.

Ahmed Al Janehi: Wide option in attack

Ahmed Al Janehi, 25, comes into the squad after a consistent domestic season with Al Gharafa.

A product of Aspire Academy, he made his professional debut in 2019 and has since established himself as a reliable attacking option in the Qatar Stars League.

He scored two goals last season and provides width and movement in attacking areas.

His role is expected to be rotational, offering depth in wide positions when required.

Youssef Abdurisag: Experienced winger still pushing forward

Youssef Abdurisag sits between generations in this squad, with experience at both youth and senior international levels.Youssef Abdurisag in action against the friendly against El Salvador. 

Born in Somalia and developed in Qatar’s football system, the 26-year-old winger has represented Qatar at U20, U21 and U23 levels before breaking into the senior team.

He has played for Al Sadd, Al Arabi and now Al Wakrah, gaining experience across different tactical systems.

Known for his pace and direct style of play, he remains an attacking option, particularly in transition situations where space is available behind opposition defences.Qatar’s young guns aim to shine at World Cup