MIES (Switzerland) - Qatar's global sporting ambitions are no secret. The Middle Eastern nation is now gearing up for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027, succeeding other major global sporting events in recent years.
The national team's preparatory campaign towards hosting FIBA's flagship competition is set to begin by taking on Lebanon in the opening window of the Asian Qualifiers.
Electric atmosphere
Playing at home is a huge advantage
The 15,227-seat capacity Lusail Arena in Doha is expected to come alive to the sounds of drums, chants and flag-waving supporters, well before the 7 pm local tip-off time.
All things considered, this could turn out to be a historic night for Qatar basketball.
Against such a backdrop, the pressure inside the Qatari camp is sure to be intense. But by virtue of being future host, Qatar are already assured of a berth in the 2027 World Cup, which should lower the jitters.
Veteran and team leader Moustafa Fouda agrees.
"While the pressure to qualify may be lessened, our responsibility to proudly represent Qatar and its people remains paramount."
Fouda 'faces' Arakji
The 28-year-old 178 cm / 5'10" point guard is back in the national side after missing out on the Asia Cup 2025 in August.
"I am honored to represent our host nation in this pivotal World Cup qualifying window.
"I view this as an opportunity to showcase the growth and development of basketball in Qatar, and to demonstrate our team's capabilities on the international stage."
Fouda seems to definitely be enjoying the renewed exposure, even conducting a fun Q&A with visiting rival Lebanese point guard Wael Arakji.
The friendly banter - which included promises to explore each other's local foods, Curry vs LeBron fandom and Arakji's love for football - though, will soon be set aside when they face off on Thursday.
Lebanon's Challenge
"Regarding our matchup against Lebanon, I respect their team. They have a talented squad with a strong basketball heritage, and we know that it will be a challenging game," Fouda said.
'Challenging' is right.
With a World Ranking of 83, Qatar starts at the bottom of a Group C, that besides Lebanon, also features Saudi Arabia and India.
But for a side that has qualified to the World Cup once, back in 2006, and even pushed Lebanon to the brink at this year’s Continental Cup, optimism is sky high.
Home Advantage
"Playing at home is a huge advantage. We are building a squad that is built on hard work, discipline, and a never-give-up attitude," Fouda said.
"To our fans, I say: we are ready, we are prepared, and we are hungry for success. We ask for your support, your passion, and your energy.
"Let's come together and make this a memorable World Cup qualifying campaign!"
Qatar vs Lebanon tips off on November 27 in Doha at 19:00 local time (GMT+3), followed by the return leg in Zouk Mikael on November 30.
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