Iraqi Fans to Energize FIFA Arab Cup 2025 in Qatar

The FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025, scheduled to take place from December 1-18, 2025, is set to showcase the passion of Iraqi football fans, according to Iraqi football legend Nashat Akram. As tickets go on sale, Akram emphasized the vibrant role that fans will play in energizing the tournament, particularly supporters of the Iraqi national team, known as the Lions of Mesopotamia.

Speaking to the Local Organising Committee (LOC), Akram, who previously played in the Qatar Stars League, stated, “Iraqi fans will be the life of the Arab Cup. Fans in Qatar witnessed the fervour and passion that Iraqi supporters brought to the stadiums and beyond in previous tournaments. This time will be no different. Our Lions of Mesopotamia will hear the roar of fans at every match, they will have our full support.”

Tickets for the tournament are available exclusively at www.roadtoqatar.qa, with prices starting at QR25. Supporters can also opt for a Follow My Team ticket, granting access to all matches of their chosen team during the group stage. All tickets are digital and include accessible seating options for fans with disabilities.

A Celebration of Arab Football Culture

For Akram, who famously captained Iraq to victory in the AFC Asian Cup in 2007, the FIFA Arab Cup represents not only competitive football but also a celebration of Arab culture. He remarked, “Qatar has been successful in celebrating Arab and Islamic identity through all the tournaments it has organised. It is a matter of pride to see our culture celebrated on such a global stage.”

Recognized as “The Maestro” for his exceptional vision on the field, Akram looks to the new generation of Iraqi players to make their mark. “The Arab Cup will be a huge opportunity for participating teams and players. It’s an honour to play for your country, for your national team,” he said, highlighting the significance of the tournament for aspiring athletes.

Iraq has been placed in Group D alongside defending champions Algeria, with additional teams set to be determined from matches between Bahrain and Djibouti, as well as Sudan and Lebanon. “Our players are going to play in World Cup stadiums in Qatar and will have access to state-of-the-art facilities that are not available even in some of the most football-developed countries. Qatar has truly set a benchmark in football infrastructure,” Akram added.

Exciting Tournament Details and Upcoming Matches

A total of 16 teams will compete for the coveted FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 trophy. Nine of the highest FIFA-ranked teams have qualified automatically, while 14 others will compete for the remaining seven spots in qualifying matches scheduled for November 25-26, 2025, in Qatar.

The tournament will kick off on December 1 at 7:30 PM at Al Bayt Stadium, featuring hosts Qatar against the winner of the match between Palestine and Libya. The final will take place on December 18 at 7 PM at the iconic Lusail Stadium. Other venues hosting matches include Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium, Education City Stadium, Khalifa International Stadium, and Stadium 974.

Fans will enjoy a variety of entertainment and cultural activities throughout the tournament. All venues are seamlessly connected by public transport, ensuring a barrier-free experience for disabled attendees.

The FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 is part of a series of tournaments that Qatar will host, including the FIFA U-17 World Cup from November 3-27, 2025, and the second edition of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup on December 10, 13, and 17. Qatar is also set to host the FIFA Arab Cup again in 2029 and 2033.