The two-time AFC Asian Cup™ champions are on four points, six behind Islamic Republic of Iran and Uzbekistan, with the qualifying campaign reaching the halfway stage.

Head coach Marquez Lopez will expect a reaction from his Qatar side following their stunning 4-1 defeat to Iran on Matchday Four.

The loss was a bitter pill to swallow as Almoez Ali had given Qatar the lead but their defensive frailties cost them dearly as Iran turned on the power to grab all three points.

Lopez, who led Qatar to the AFC Asian Cup 2023 title on home soil in February, has recalled Mohammed Muntari, who makes a return after a long injury layoff, with Akram Afif and Ali are also part of a squad who desperately need a win to keep their hopes of qualifying for the FIFA World Cup on merit for the first time alive.

Uzbekistan, however, will be extremely tough opponents as they have been thriving in the AFC Asian Qualifiers with only Iran being able to take points off them so far.

Seeking a first ever appearance at the FIFA World Cup, the Central Asian side will fancy their chances of walking away with the three points against a Qatar side struggling with consistency.