Syria vs Qatar prediction, H2H and probable lineups — 4 December 2025
On December 4, 2025, in the second round of the Arab Nations Cup group stage, Syria will take on Qatar. The match kicks off at 18:00 Central European Time. Let's take a closer look at the form of both teams, key facts, and the likely outcome of this clash.
Match preview
Syria comes into this fixture on the back of a surprising victory in the first round against Tunisia. However, it's worth noting that Syria was quite fortunate in that match—Tunisia created far more chances but failed to convert, while Syria managed to capitalize on almost their only opportunity. The goal came from legendary Al Wahda (UAE) striker and Syrian icon Omar Khrbin, who struck from outside the box.
This result means Syria has now posted five consecutive wins, a feat they last achieved back in 2020. This generation of Syrian footballers is arguably one of the strongest in the nation's history, and the team is eager to make a statement at this tournament. In the Arab Nations Cup qualifiers, Spanish head coach Jose Lana's side eased past South Sudan with a 2-0 victory.
Qatar, on the other hand, suffered a shock defeat in their opening match of the Arab Nations Cup, losing 0-1 to Palestine. Having already secured a spot at the World Cup, this tournament serves more as preparation for the global stage. Despite being one of the most talented squads in this competition, it's unlikely many Qatari players are fully focused on this tournament with bigger challenges ahead.
The loss to Palestine marked a second consecutive defeat for Julen Lopetegui's men, who also unexpectedly fell to Zimbabwe (1-2) in a friendly. Against Syria, Qatar cannot afford to drop points—another slip-up could seriously jeopardize their chances in this tournament.
Match facts and head-to-head
- Syria are unbeaten in six consecutive matches.
- Syria have kept four straight clean sheets.
- Qatar, meanwhile, have conceded in three games in a row.
- The two teams previously met in 2018 World Cup qualifying, each winning once: Qatar won the first leg 1-0, while Syria took revenge with a 3-1 victory in the return fixture.
Probable lineups
- Syria: Sarraf - Aussi, Faqa, Al Shami, Al-Hajjah - Alsalkhadi, Abraham, Amin, Al-Aswad - Khrbin, Al-Hallaq
- Qatar: Abunad - Al Oui, Al-Hussain, Mendes, Al Brake - Fathi, Madibo, Naceur Almanai - Gouda, Afif, Alaaeldin
Prediction
While Syria currently looks the more confident side, Qatar simply cannot afford another slip-up. I expect the tournament hosts to do everything in their power to avoid defeat. In this scenario, Syria will have a tough challenge, so my prediction is a Qatar victory.
