Doha [Qatar], September 10: Qatar's Under-23 national football team is stepping up preparations for their Asian Games campaign, with coach Jose Angel Lacunza also using domestic competition to give his young players valuable match experience.
Qatar will open their Asian Games campaign against Republic of Korea on September 15 before taking on Saudi Arabia three days later on September 18.
With the tournament fast approaching, Lacunza believes the team's participation in the Jetour League is providing an important platform for the players to develop and gain experience against senior opposition.
The Spanish coach has welcomed the opportunity to compete in the Second Division, saying the regular matches are helping both the coaching staff and players prepare for the challenges ahead.
The Asian Games men's football tournament will feature 15 teams, with the competition running from September 14 to October 3 across venues in Japan's Chubu and Kansai regions.
The tournament will be played by Under-23 national teams, with squads allowed to include up to three overage players.
Qatar have been drawn in Group D with Republic of Korea and Saudi Arabia. The top two teams from each group will advance to the quarter-finals.
Republic of Korea enter the tournament as defending men's champions.
For Qatar, the immediate focus will be on building rhythm and ensuring the players are ready for the two group matches, with the Jetour League providing Lacunza with another opportunity to assess his squad before the Asian Games.
Source: Qatar Tribune
