FIFA Arab Cup: Qatar, Tunisia in Group A as Morocco, Saudi Arabia headline Group B

Doha, Qatar: Reigning Asian champions Qatar will face Tunisia and two qualifier teams in Group A as the draw for the second edition of the FIFA Arab C...

Doha, Qatar: Reigning Asian champions Qatar will face Tunisia and two qualifier teams in Group A as the draw for the second edition of the FIFA Arab Cup revealed a series of exciting group stage matchups yesterday.

Following the huge success of its inaugural tournament in 2021, the FIFA Arab Cup is set to return with matches scheduled from December 1 to 18 across six world-class stadiums in Qatar. A total of 23 nations will compete for the regional crown. 

The nine highest-ranked teams in April’s FIFA World Ranking including hosts Qatar and defending champions Algeria have received automatic qualification for the group stage, which will feature 16 teams divided into four groups. They will be joined by seven teams emerging from single-leg qualifying matches involving the 14 lowest-ranked nations. These qualifiers will take place in Qatar on November 25 and 26.

In the inaugural edition, Qatar reached the semi-finals while Tunisia finished as runners-up after a defeat to Algeria in the final. Group A will also include the winners of the Syria vs. South Sudan and Palestine vs. Libya matchups.

“This edition may be even more technical than the last. Many players and fans across the Arab world are eagerly anticipating it. With teams likely fielding local talent, especially Tunisia and Morocco, I expect a very close and highly competitive tournament,” said Qatar Football Association’s Head of Communications Ali Al Salat.