Qatar — Russia : Match Preview and Prediction for September 07,2025

The upcoming match against Russia represents a crucial test for the Qatar national team as they prepare for critical Asian qualification fixtures, where coach Julen Lopetegui’s squad has struggled to find their rhythm. Russia, on the other hand, aims to extend its impressive unbeaten streak and demonstrate that their recent draw with Jordan (0-0) was merely an isolated hiccup.

Despite being the reigning Asian champions, Qatar’s recent performances have been quite underwhelming. In their latest outings, Lopetegui’s side dropped points against Bahrain (2-2), suffered a surprising defeat to Lebanon (0-1), and were convincingly beaten by Uzbekistan (0-3). Victories over Kyrgyzstan or North Korea can hardly be considered indicative of strong form. Lopetegui is still searching for balance within his squad; while the attack shows promise, the defense frequently falters, having conceded 24 goals in 10 World Cup qualification matches.

In their most recent fixture against Jordan (0-0), the Russian national team failed to convert their chances despite creating 1.87 xG. Nevertheless, the team boasts an impressive 14-match unbeaten run, although it must be noted that their opponents have not always been top-tier. The lineup against Qatar is expected to be strong, with Golovin, Miranchuk, and Safonov anticipated to start, which should significantly enhance their offensive quality. However, Russia’s defense has shown some vulnerabilities, having conceded against Nigeria (1-1) and Belarus (4-1), and allowing Jordan to generate 1.12 xG. Two years ago, Valery Karpin’s side drew 1-1 with Qatar.

Russia appears to be the clear favorite in this encounter. Qatar consistently concedes goals even against mid-level opponents, but Lopetegui’s team is certainly capable of finding the net, especially given Russia’s occasional defensive lapses. I anticipate both teams will score in this match.

The Russian national team’s next test in their series of autumn friendlies will be an away match against Qatar. In a month, Lopetegui’s team faces a challenging period in the fourth round of World Cup 2026 qualifiers, making the game against Karpin’s squad an excellent preparation for the Maroons.

Following a coaching change, the Qatar national team has not secured many significant victories. In June, Lopetegui’s team concluded their qualification phase with a 1-0 win over Iran but suffered a 0-3 thrashing by Uzbekistan, failing to catch the UAE, who finished third in their group (13 points versus 15). On Wednesday, the Maroons managed a late comeback to draw 2-2 in a friendly against Bahrain. Qatar lacks top-tier players (none play in major European leagues), yet the Asian qualification structure still offers the national team a chance at World Cup 2026.

This week, Russia extended its unbeaten streak to 14 matches, a run that began in September 2023 with a 1-1 draw against Qatar. Against Jordan (0-0), Karpin’s team was closer to victory (1.87 xG vs 1.12 xG), but even with attacking substitutions, they couldn’t secure a win. It is probable that in Saturday’s match, the Russian squad will feature Sergeev, Miranchuk, Golovin, and Batrakov from the start, which should create even more scoring opportunities. In head-to-head encounters, the Russian national team has never defeated Qatar, recording two draws and one loss nine years ago. I believe a Handicap (0) bet on Karpin’s team is a strong option, as their squad offers much greater tactical flexibility.