Head coach Marquez Lopez said a stronger performance in the latter stages was the key to Qatar’s dramatic 3-2 win over Uzbekistan in their World Cup Qualifiers at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium on Thursday. Almoez Ali had given two-time AFC Asian Cup winners Qatar a 2-0 lead going into the break but their hard work was undone by Abbosbek Fayzullaev’s brace, which left Al Annabi facing the possibility of an early end to their hopes of automatic qualification.
Lucas Mendes, however, stepped up to net the winner in the 12th minute of time added on as Qatar moved to seven points, three behind second-placed Uzbekistan.
“We earned three very important points and showcased a positive image of the Qatari team by controlling much of the match and creating numerous scoring opportunities and scored two goals in the first half,” said Lopez.
“However, after the break, we retreated under pressure from the opponents, which allowed the Uzbek team to take the initiative and mount attacks. They were able to score twice and equalise, as they have some very talented players. The most important thing is the victory, even if it came late. Securing three crucial points in the qualifiers was our key takeaway,” added Marquez, whose side face the United Arab Emirates away on Tuesday.
Meanwhile, Ali admitted Qatar made it tough for themselves against Uzbekistan. “The match was intense and we made it difficult for ourselves, especially after going two goals ahead in the first half,” said Ali. “Our mentality and performance were not up to the mark in the second half but we showed resilience, came back strongly, and scored the winning goal in the dying moments to secure three crucial points.
“We did not perform as required, and it is natural for any team trailing in the first half to come out strongly after the break. Our team made some mistakes, but I hope these mistakes will serve as valuable lessons for the upcoming matches.”
Uzbekistan head coach Srecko Katanec expressed disappointment at the last-minute defeat but praised his team’s resilience. “Our team was unlucky, losing in the final minute,” said Katanec.
“As expected, the match was difficult and we did not perform as required in the first half, which resulted in a two-goal deficit. However, our players recovered in the second half.
“We changed our style of play in the second half and equalised. Unfortunately, we conceded a third, decisive goal, marking a great success for the opponent. Losing in the last minute was tough, but that is the nature of football.”
Uzbekistan face North Korea in Vientiane on Tuesday.
Youssef replaces
injured al-Yazidi
Meanwhile, Lopez has called up Abdullah Youssef to replaced injured Abdullah al-Yazidi for Tuesday’s match against the UAE. Right back al-Yazidi suffered an ankle injury during the closing stage of the match against Uzbekistan.
Al-Yazidi underwent tests and it was confirmed he will be out for a period ranging between 5 to 6 weeks.