Qatar and Tunisia... their last chance in the Arab Cup

The Qatari national football team will face Tunisia on Sunday at Al Bayt Stadium in the third and final round of Group A matches in the Arab Cup Qatar 2025, currently being held in Doha. Qatar is seeking a victory to remain in contention for a place in the quarterfinals, a last chance contingent on the result of the other Group A match between Palestine and Syria, which will be played simultaneously. Qatar currently has one point, earned from a 1-1 draw against Syria in the second round, following their opening 1-0 loss to Palestine. They sit in third place, tied with Tunisia, who also drew 2-2 with Palestine and lost 1-0 to Syria in their first match. Syria and Palestine share the top spot in the group with four points each. Qatar played well against Syria, dominating much of the match and creating several chances before taking the lead. However, they conceded a late goal in the final minute, costing them two crucial points in their campaign. Spanish coach Julen Lopetegui made eight changes to the starting lineup against Syria compared to the first match against Palestine, demonstrating a bolder attacking approach. However, the team lacked effectiveness in the final third, especially during the first half. Qatar will rely on the abilities of several key players, most notably Akram Afif, along with Edmilson Junior, who provided the assist for the only goal in the previous match. The important roles played by Mohammed Manaei, Hammam Al-Amin, and Abdulaziz Hatem are also crucial. The Tunisian national team enters the match in similar circumstances to Qatar, desperately needing a win first and then hoping for a favorable result in the Syria-Palestine match. A draw would be enough for both Syria and Palestine to secure their qualification for the quarterfinals, regardless of the outcome of the Qatar-Tunisia game.