Qatar Exits Arab Cup After 3-0 Defeat to Tunisia in Doha

Qatar’s hopes of progressing in the FIFA Arab Cup ended with a decisive 3-0 defeat to Tunisia during their final Group A match on July 2, 2023, at the Al Bayt Stadium. Despite their victory, Tunisia was also eliminated from the tournament, as they finished behind Palestine and Syria, who advanced to the quarter-finals following a goalless draw in a concurrent match at Education City Stadium.

With both Palestine and Syria ending the group stage with five points, Tunisia concluded their campaign with four points, while Qatar finished with only one point. The host nation struggled throughout the tournament, scoring just once and conceding five goals. Earlier in the competition, Qatar lost to lower-ranked Palestine and managed only a draw against Syria.

Tunisia Dominates Despite Red Card

In a match that saw Tunisia largely in control, they took the lead with a goal from Mohamed Ben Romdhane in the 16th minute. After pouncing on a rebound, Ben Romdhane capitalized when Qatar’s goalkeeper Meshaal Barsham blocked an initial attempt from Seifeddine Jaziri.

Qatar struggled to create meaningful chances, with their only notable effort being a weak shot from Sultan Al Brake. As the first half progressed, Tunisia looked poised to double their lead, but Firas Chaouat could not convert a promising opportunity, dragging his shot wide.

As the half drew to a close, Qatar began to find some attacking rhythm, winning several set-pieces. However, they lacked the precision to capitalize, exemplified by Ayoub Al Ouwi‘s header that went wide from an Akram Afif delivery. Tunisia went into the break with a deserved one-goal lead.

Late Goals Seal Qatar’s Exit

Qatar made changes at halftime, bringing on Tarek Salman and Edmilson Junior. They started the second half aggressively, with Lucas Mendes seeing a shot blocked. Qatar’s Mohamed Manai hit the crossbar from a corner, and Afif’s effort was saved by Aymen Dahmen, but Tunisia continued to push back.

Tunisia extended their lead in the 62nd minute when Yassine Meriah headed in from close range, exploiting a corner kick situation after a misplay by Ferjani Sassi. The match took a turn when Jaziri received a second yellow card and was sent off in the 66th minute, leaving Tunisia with ten men.

Despite the numerical advantage, Qatar failed to capitalize. Substitute Mohammed Muntari headed over the bar, and Afif’s set-piece flew well off target, marking a frustrating evening for the hosts. In stoppage time, Tunisia’s Mohamed Ben Ali sealed the victory with a powerful strike, further disappointing the more than 48,000 spectators in attendance.

Qatar’s exit from the tournament marks a disappointing chapter for the Asian champions, who will need to regroup ahead of future competitions. Tunisia’s campaign ends in heartbreak, unable to advance despite their strong performance against the hosts.