Qatar keep alive FIFA Arab Cup hopes with Syria draw as Palestine top group

Qatar, hosts of the FIFA Arab Cup 2025, stayed alive after drawing 1-1 with Syria in Group A at the Khalifa International Stadium in Al Rayyan to prevent a shock early elimination.

The AFC Asian Cup winners must win their opening game against Palestine to maintain their chances of progressing to the knockout stages on Thursday.

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Qatar’s nerves grew even as they dominated the game, with 18 goals attempted in the 77th minute while Syria only managed two.

Before Omar Kharbin’s 90th-minute strike denied the hosts, Ahmed Alaaeldin converted Edmilson Junior’s assist and appeared to hand his side the victory.

Palestine, who are now in the group, also came from behind to draw 2-2 with Tunisia earlier in the day.

Qatar will play Tunisia at Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor, while Syria will face Palestine at Al Rayyan on Sunday.

Palestine only needs to draw their final match in order to advance to the knockout stages, but they must also win it in order to finish in contention.

Qatar and Tunisia will have a winner-takes-all chance of qualifying for the next round if Syria loses the match.

After Amor Layouni turned in Ismael Gharbi’s 16th-minute corner in the opening kickoff against Palestine, Tunisia had taken the lead.

Six minutes into the second period, Firas Chaouat scored from a square ball laid on by Mohamed Ali Ben Romdhane for the conversion.