Palestine return to Doha with World Cup landmark in sights

Doha, Qatar: After their historic run in the AFC Asian Cup earlier this year, Palestine have returned to Qatar with their sights set on making more me...

Doha, Qatar: After their historic run in the AFC Asian Cup earlier this year, Palestine have returned to Qatar with their sights set on making more memories in Doha.

The Lions of Canaan won hearts with their brilliant performance, reaching the last 16 stage of the continental showpiece for the first time, before eventual champions and hosts Qatar ended their memorable run in the tournament.

Palestine, led by Tunisian coach Makram Daboub, are now seeking to write a new chapter in their footballing history as they aim to advance to the third round of FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers.

Placed alongside strong opponents in Australia, Lebanon and Bangladesh, they stand second in the group with seven points from four games as Australia occupy the top spot with a five-point lead. The top two teams from the group will enter the next stage of the qualifiers.       

Palestine will meet Lebanon – third in the group with two points – at Doha’s Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium tomorrow and even a draw would be enough to take them to the third round besides confirming their spot in the next edition of the Asian Cup.