A spectacular opening to the 2023 Asian Cup.

The Qatar national team begins its 2023 Asian Cup campaign with an opening match against Lebanon. With a stronger squad and the advantage of playing at home, coach Marquez Lopez's team has a great chance to win 3 points.

Qatar vs Lebanon Prediction

The Qatar national team is the reigning Asian Cup champion. Five years ago, they defeated Japan 3-1 to claim the Asian title. In this year's tournament, the team still features many of the same players, most notably midfielder Akram Aif and striker Almoez Ali.

Famous striker Almoez Ali of the Qatar national team. (Photo: Getty)

It's important to emphasize that Qatar invested considerable effort and money in building their national team for the 2022 World Cup. Therefore, after their failure at the World Cup, Qatar's stars have become even more mature and determined for this Asian Cup.

The main problem for the Qatar national team right now is the head coach position. Marquez Lopez only replaced Carlos Queiroz last December. Therefore, the stability of the Qatar team's playing style is being seriously questioned.

With the advantage of playing at home, this is an opportunity for coach Marquez Lopez to prove his talent. At the same time, his team is in a relatively easy group. Lebanon, Tajikistan, and China are unlikely to spring any surprises.

The Lebanese national team has declined significantly in recent years. Their leading star is currently defender Hassan Ali Maatouk. However, he is already 36 years old. This shows that Lebanese football is experiencing a talent shortage. Further evidence is that Lebanon only has four players currently playing abroad.

Lebanon's squad is valued at 7.43 million euros, less than half the value of Qatar's team.

Qatar vs Lebanon form

In their last five matches, the Qatar national team won four and lost one. Meanwhile, the Lebanon national team only won one of their last six matches. A draw against Bangladesh, or even a defeat against Thailand, further reinforces Lebanon's low rating at the 2023 Asian Cup.

Furthermore, in their head-to-head history, the Qatar national team is unbeaten against Lebanon. They have won 5 and drawn 1 of those matches. Their most recent victory was at the 2019 Asian Cup.

Predicted lineups for Qatar vs Lebanon

Qatar: Al-Sheeb; Miguel, Khoukhi, Mendes, Ahmed; Hatem, Al Ahraq, Al Haydos; Mohammad, Afif; Ali

Lebanon: Khalil; Zein, Shour, Sabra, El Zein; Srour, Haidar; Maatouk, Al Haj, Lajud; El-Helwe

Predicted result: Qatar 2-0 Lebanon

Van Hai

Source