Dec 4 : - Qatar will enter Friday’s FIFA World Cup draw in Washington with renewed purpose, determined to show that their debut in 2022 was the beginning of a lasting football journey rather than a one-off showcase.

They sealed their first-ever qualification on merit in October, edging the United Arab Emirates 2-1 in Doha to top Group A of Asia’s fourth-round playoffs. Goals from Boualem Khoukhi and Pedro Miguel sent fans into raptures at Jassim bin Hamad Stadium, marking a milestone for a team who had previously appeared only as hosts.

"Qualifying this time is a national dream fulfilled," said Khalid Salman, the former captain and 1981 World Youth Championship hero who is now a respected television analyst.

"It’s the result of years of work and a brilliant generation that won two conse

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