Haydos recalled from retirement for Qatar's 2026 World Cup Qualification Playoffs
Doha
Hassan Al Haydos, who led Qatar at FIFA World Cup 2022 following their fairytale Asian Cup triumph in 2019, has come back from his retirement from the national team to lead Al Annabi through the 2026 World Cup Qualification Playoffs.
The Qatar Football Association (QFA) in a statement on Saturday said that Al Haydos will be rejoining the squad for the 2026 World Cup Qualification Playoffs at the request of coach Julen Lopetegui.
It stated: 'Hassan Al Haydos is at the forefront of the national team squad for the 2026 World Cup qualification playoffs, in a positive move responding to coach Julen Lopetegui's request to strengthen the team with experienced players.
'His presence is expected to bring both technical and emotional value, providing leadership and support in the pursuit of the big dream that will delight Al Annabi's fans the dream of securing a place at the World Cup.'
A cool forward, Al Haydos has so far made 183 appearances for Qatar since his debut in 2008 scoring 41 goals. He had also been a part of Qatar U23 and U20 squads.
The 33-year-old had announced his retirement from the national team on 16th March 2024.
Last week, Qatar Stars League champions Al Sadd had announced the renewal of their captain Al Haydos' contract. One of the best Qatari footballers over the years, Al Haydos has been with Al Sadd since 1998.
Al Haydos has been at the heart of Al Sadd's success for more than two decades. He rose through the club's youth system before making his senior debut in the 2006–2007 season. Since then, he has played a vital role in guiding the team to numerous domestic and continental triumphs, including league titles and the AFC Champions League. The club had emphasized the desire to retain the veteran player in recognition of his immense contributions, leadership, and unwavering loyalty to the team.
'I thank the club for their trust and the renewal of the contract. I am very happy at Al Sadd, which is my home,' Al Haydos had said. 'Leadership is a responsibility, and the Al Sadd players are like my brothers. We have been playing together for a long time. Our goal as a family is one — to always keep Al Sadd at the top.'
Qatar's hopes of qualifying for the 2026 tournament rests on the play-offs after the team finished fourth in their third-round qualifying group, missing out on an automatic berth.
The teams that placed third and fourth in each of the three third-round groups will be regrouped into two new pools for the next stage. The stakes remain high - top teams from each group will go straight to the World Cup, while the second-placed sides will move on to the fifth and final round of qualification.
The fourth-round draw is slated for July 17, with matches kicking off in October.
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