Iraqi Legend Anticipates Passionate Arab Cup in Qatar

The FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 is set to take place from December 1-18, 2025, with anticipation building among fans and players alike. Iraqi football legend Nashat Akram expressed his excitement for the tournament, highlighting its potential to showcase the region’s deep-rooted passion for football, particularly among supporters of the Iraqi national team, known as the Lions of Mesopotamia.

In a statement to the tournament’s Local Organising Committee, Akram noted, “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.” He emphasized that Iraqi fans will provide unwavering support at every match, ensuring their presence is felt throughout the tournament.

Ticket Sales and Accessibility

Tickets for the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 are now available for purchase exclusively at www.roadtoqatar.qa. Prices start from QR25, with options for fans to buy a “Follow My Team” ticket, allowing them to attend all matches of their chosen team during the group stage. All tickets are digital and include accessible seating options for disabled fans.

Akram, who famously led Iraq to victory in the AFC Asian Cup in 2007, shared his views on the significance of the Arab Cup. He stated, “The Arab Cup has become the pinnacle of Arab football and a tribute to the rich culture of the region. 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.”

Group Dynamics and Tournament Structure

Iraq’s national team has been placed in Group D, alongside defending champions Algeria. They will also compete against the winners of the matches between Bahrain and Djibouti, as well as Sudan and Lebanon. Akram acknowledged the opportunity this tournament represents for the players, stating, “The Arab Cup will be a huge opportunity for participating teams and players. It’s an honour to play for your country.”

He praised the facilities in Qatar, highlighting that players will experience World Cup-standard stadiums and amenities. “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,” he noted. “Qatar has truly set a benchmark in football infrastructure.”

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

The tournament will kick off with the opening match on December 1, 2025, at 7:30 PM at Al Bayt Stadium, featuring hosts Qatar against the winner of the match between Palestine and Libya. The final is set for December 18, 2025, at 7:00 PM at the iconic Lusail Stadium. Other venues include Ahmad Bin Ali, Education City, Khalifa International Stadium, and Stadium 974.

Throughout the competition, fans can expect a variety of entertainment and cultural activities. All venues are interconnected by public transport, ensuring a seamless experience for attendees, including disabled fans.

The FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 is one of several major tournaments Qatar will host this year, including the FIFA U-17 World Cup from November 3-27, 2025. Qatar is also set to host the second edition of the FIFA Intercontinental Cup on December 10, 13, and 17, 2025, with future Arab Cups planned for 2029 and 2033.