SOCCER: Lopetegui stresses the positives after Qatar knocked out of World Cup

SEATTLE – Qatar were eliminated from the World Cup after a defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina on Wednesday, but head coach Julen Lopetegui said his players should be proud of their progress after earning their first point at the finals.

Despite a 3-1 loss that confirmed their exit at the group stage, Lopetegui described the team’s campaign as “very positive,” calling the result “a big disappointment” but stressing the broader achievements of the squad.

Qatar had previously appeared at the World Cup only once, four years ago as hosts, when they were knocked out after losing all three matches.

This time, having qualified for the tournament for the first time, they earned a late equalizer in a surprising 1-1 draw against Switzerland in their opening match. However, they were then defeated 6-0 by co-hosts Canada, leaving them needing a win against Bosnia and Herzegovina to advance.

Lopetegui said that simply reaching the tournament through qualification was a significant milestone, adding that Qatar had shown they belong on football’s biggest stage.

He said the experience could serve as a foundation for future development, with several players likely making their final World Cup appearance.

“This last match allowed us to take one step ahead in Qatar football, Qatar history,” he said.

“I think that they showed that at least we were able to compete in these kinds of matches.”

He added: “I don’t know if this will be the last match for some of them, but the young players have to learn from this experience and take it forward for the future, to have other opportunities in history — I don’t know when that will happen.” -Reporting by Sam TobinEditing by Christian Radnedge/Reuters