Qatar rekindles their FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying chances with a thrilling 3-2 victory

With a thrilling 3-2 victory over Uzbekistan on Thursday at Doha's Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium, Qatar rekindled their chances of qualifying for the FIFA World Cup 2026, thanks to a last-minute goal from Lucas Mendes. 

After giving up a two-goal lead, the two-time Asian champions appeared headed for a draw, but Mendes' game-winning goal in the 12th minute of stoppage time sent the home crowd into a frenzy. 

Almoez Ali scored twice in the first half, in the 25th and 41st minutes, with two assists from Akram Afif. Abbosbek Fayzullaev led Uzbekistan in a valiant comeback, scoring twice in the 75th and 80th minutes to tie the score before Mendes sealed the victory.

With the win, Qatar's campaign has been revitalized and they now stand at seven points, three behind Uzbekistan and six behind Iran, the leaders of Group A. Marquez Lopez's team is fourth above Kyrgyzstan (3 points) and North Korea (2 points), tied with the UAE on points but behind on goal differential. 

Almoez Ali scored twice in the first half, in the 25th and 41st minutes, with two assists from Akram Afif. Abbosbek Fayzullaev led Uzbekistan in a valiant comeback, scoring twice in the 75th and 80th minutes to tie the score before Mendes sealed the victory.