Jeddah:Head coach of the Qatar national football team, Julen Lopetegui, has affirmed that his squad aims to deliver its best performance at the 27th Gulf Cup, taking place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, until October 6.

According to Qatar News Agency, Qatar will begin its Group B campaign against defending champions Bahrain on Thursday at Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Sports City Stadium. The group also includes the UAE and Yemen.

Lopetegui, speaking at a press conference, mentioned that preparations have gone smoothly and that the team is ready to meet its goals. He noted that all participating teams have improved, making the competition more balanced. Addressing the upcoming match against Bahrain, he acknowledged their strength and recent head-to-head advantage but emphasized that past records are history. The focus, he stated, must remain on the upcoming match as the starting point towards reclaiming the title.

Goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada echoed his coach's sentiments, emphasizing the tournament's special status and confirming the players' enthusiasm to compete at the highest level and advance far. Qatar last won the Gulf Cup in 2014.