Doha: Qatar's national football team faced a setback in their preparation for the upcoming Arab Cup, suffering a 2-1 defeat to Zimbabwe in a friendly match held at Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium. This match was part of Qatar's strategic preparations for the Arab Cup scheduled to take place in Doha from December 1 to 18.

According to Qatar News Agency, the match also served as an essential part of Qatar's long-term strategy to prepare for the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The game saw Qatar's Mohammed Khalid score the opening goal in the ninth minute. However, Zimbabwe fought back with Munashe Garananga and Bill Antonio finding the net in the 24th and 74th minutes, respectively.

The encounter, characterized by alternating spells of control between the two teams, witnessed Zimbabwe overturning an early deficit in the second half. Qatar's coach, Julen Lopetegui, took this opportunity to assess his squad by fielding a variety of young players from the training camp, as part of the evaluation process for the Arab Cup roster.

This international break marks Qatar's final opportunity to fine-tune their strategies before the Arab Cup begins. As the host nation, Qatar will kick off the tournament on December 1 at Al Bayt Stadium, facing the winner of a playoff between Palestine and Libya. Group A will also feature Tunisia and the victor of another playoff between Syria and South Sudan.