Arab Cup: Libya’s history on Qatari soil ahead of Palestine playoff clash

The Libyan national football team is set to make another appearance in the Qatari capital, Doha, marking their fifth official match on Qatari soil. The Mediterranean Knights will face Palestine in a decisive playoff for a place in the 2025 Arab Cup.

The match is scheduled for Tuesday, 25 November, at Jassim bin Hamad Stadium, kicking off at 16:00 GMT.

A History Between Libya and Doha

Libya’s story with Qatari stadiums began in 1998 during the 7th Arab Cup, where they made their first appearance in Doha. Despite an early exit in the group stage as Libya lost to Qatar and Jordan, the tournament marked the start of Libya’s association with Arab competitions hosted in Qatar.

In 2011, the Mediterranean Knights returned to Doha for the Arab tournament, facing Palestine in a tight contest that ended in a 1–1 draw.

2021 Playoff: An Exit

Libya’s third appearance in Doha came in 2021 during the Arab Cup playoff against Sudan. In a decisive match, Libya fell 1–0, ending their qualification hopes and leaving a negative memory in the team’s Arab football record.

A Renewed Clash with Palestine

Four years later, Libya return to Doha once again—this time for their fourth appearance and second Arab Cup playoff on Qatari soil. Their opponent will once again be Palestine, in what becomes their second official meeting in Doha.

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