Doha, September 03 (QNA) - Qatar played to a 2–2 draw against Bahrain in a closed-door friendly on Tuesday at Al Thumama Stadium, as part of preparations for the fourth round of the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Mohammed Muntari and Ahmed Alaa were on the scoresheet for Al Annabi in a match closed to both media and spectators by decision of head coach Julen Lopetegui.

Qatar are set to play a second and final warm-up match against Russia on September 7 at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium, ahead of entering the playoff stage.

The playoff draws placed Qatar in Group A alongside the UAE and Oman, while Group B features Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Indonesia.

Qatar and Saudi Arabia will host their respective groups in single round-robin formats between October 8 and 14.

According to the playoff format, the top team from each group will qualify directly for the 2026 World Cup. The runners-up will face off in a two-legged tie-on November 13 and 18, with the winner advancing to the intercontinental playoff. (QNA)