Qatar’s players toss their captain Hassan Al Haydos in the air. AFP
Doha, Qatar: Hassan Al Haydos believes the outpouring of joy from his teammates after his spectacular volleyed winner against China at Khalifa International Stadium on Monday is a sign of the togetherness uniting the Qatar squad as they look to defend their AFC Asian Cup title.
The veteran midfielder was thrown into the air by his fellow players having scored a goal-of-the-tournament contender in the 66th minute from more than 20 yards that ensured the Maroons advanced to the Round of 16 with a perfect record as Group A winners.
“We have an agreement among us for the celebration after the match,” said the 33-year-old. “When we entered, me and Akram (Afif) said if either one of us scores we will celebrate in this way. We are very connected, we are brothers, all 26 players.
“We have great relationships, brotherly relationships between us and this is what led to the joy and excitement after I scored.”
Afif and Al Haydos had only been introduced from the bench when the pair linked up at a corner for the captain to score one of the best goals of the tournament so far, the 179-cap veteran lashing home his teammate’s delivery first time with a devastating right-foot volley.
The goal was another milestone in an illustrious career for Al Haydos, marking his 40th goal for the national team in his fourth appearance at the AFC Asian Cup Finals, having been an integral part of the side that won the title in the United Arab Emirates in 2019.
Qatar cruised through the group phase, picking up wins over Lebanon, Tajikistan and China PR and will go into the last 16 with growing belief they could become the first nation to successfully defend the title since Japan in 2004.
“I’m very proud of my colleagues, all the players,” said Al Haydos. “Twenty-six players have played in the three matches and done a spectacular performance.
“The three points were very important on the morale side, we have a game in the last 16 we have finished with full marks and now we will focus on the next round.”
The performances have been particularly significant given the departure of former coach Carlos Queiroz, who was replaced by Marquez Lopez just over a month before the opening game.
But Al Haydos paid tribute to the Spaniard, who had previously been in charge of Qatar Stars League side Al Wakra, and the ease with which he has adapted to his new team.
“He has expanded his experience despite the short time,” he said. “During these last two weeks we have undergone a huge transformation and this is what led to this performance.”
With their place in the next round guaranteed, Qatar are now waiting to find out who they face with the hosts due to play the third placed team from either Group C, D or E.
“In the next round, irrespective of the opponent, we believe all the teams are playing well,” said Al Haydos. “They have advanced, they have developed and for me it’s going to be a very strong match.”
