Doha:Qatar's participation in the Gulf U-17 Cup, currently hosted in Doha until November 4, is part of a strategic initiative to provide young players with valuable competitive experience. The aim is to prepare them for significant commitments in 2027, according to Mohammed Jaber Dharman, the Youth Teams Supervisor in the National Teams Department at the Qatar Football Association (QFA).

According to Qatar News Agency, Qatar faced defeats in all four Group A matches against China, Bahrain, Oman, and the United Arab Emirates, resulting in their early exit from the tournament at the group stage. Despite this outcome, Dharman emphasized that the participation serves as a crucial step in a broader development program for the youth national teams. The program includes tournaments and training camps coordinated with clubs and Aspire Academy.

The QFA's technical department made the decision to field a U-16 team, making Qatar one of the youngest squads in the competition. Dharman pointed out that this is an essential factor when assessing the team's performance and participation. He described the event as part of several preparatory stages for the U-17 national team, aimed at the ultimate challenge of the 2027 FIFA U-17 World Cup.

Dharman further mentioned that the players will continue their preparation with official and continental tournaments, training camps, and friendly matches, all designed to enhance their technical skills and readiness. He also stressed the importance of coordination between the National Teams Department, clubs, and particularly Aspire Academy, in building strong national teams across age groups. Regular meetings with clubs are conducted to align efforts and offer the best environment for player development.

The program targeting the 2026 FIFA U-17 World Cup began nearly 18 months ago and has included various domestic and international training camps, participation in official and friendly tournaments, and numerous matches against technically skilled national teams.