'Playing in World Cup stadiums will be unfogettable' - Jordan's Yazan Al Naimat can't wait for FIFA Arab Cup 2025 in Qatar

The Arab Cup, brought under the FIFA ambit in 2021, has brought recognition to the region's footballers and the upcoming edition in Qatar is set to build on that. And Al Naimat, Jordan's striker, can't wait to don his country's colours in Doha and contribute to the region's marquee football show.

Speaking to the tournament’s Local Organising Committee (LOC), Al Naimat said: "The Arab Cup is important for the development of football in the region. The success of this competition has created a huge opportunity for Arab players to showcase their talent on a global stage. It is an honour to represent Jordan at the prestigious tournament.”

Al Naimat, who plays for Qatari side Al Sadd SC, made his debut for Jordan in 2021 and has since gone on to be a mainstay in the team. He has emerged as one of Jordan's top scorers and played a key role in helping the country secure its first ever World Cup qualification by booking a place in the 2026 World Cup.

Now, Al Naimat has a chance to fine tune preparations for the World Cup by testing themselves at the Arab Cup.

"We are ready to showcase our strength as a team, just as we did in the Asian Cup where we reached the final for the first time in our history. I will give it my all. I believe that when you have true passion and dedication, you can conquer anything,” said Al Naimat.

At the Arab Cup, Jordan has been placed in Group C, alongside Egypt and the UAE, and a qualifier. Jordan will play their first match on 3 December at Al Bayt Stadium, when they face the UAE.

Al Naimat is excited to play in the Arab Cup in Qatar, especially in stadiums which were utilised for the highly-successful 2022 World Cup. Al Naimat was quick to praise the organisational skills of Qatar and infrastructure available to fans and players alike.

The forward felt that the experience of playing in stadiums that once hosted World Cup matches will be unforgettable.

"The Arab Cup will bring back memories of a historic World Cup, where players and fans will be able to experience the country’s world-class infrastructure and high organisational standards. We will be playing in World Cup stadiums, which will truly be an unforgettable experience."

A total of 16 teams will compete for the FIFA Arab Cup 2025, set to be held in Qatar from 1st December to 18th December. The matches will be held across a total of six stadiums - Al Bayt, Lusail Stadium, Ahmad Bin Ali, Education City, Khalifa International Stadium and Stadium 974. 

Fans can purchase FIFA Arab Cup tickets exclusively on: www.roadtoqatar.qa, with prices starting from QAR 25.