The Coach Who Smiled Again

Julen Lopetegui wrote one of the most emotional chapters of his career by guiding Qatar to its second consecutive World Cup — but the first earned through sporting merit. His team defeated the United Arab Emirates 2–1 in a thrilling match that ended with the Spanish coach dancing alongside his players in front of a stadium bursting with joy.

The image of Lopetegui celebrating with his improvised dance moves spread quickly across social media. It wasn’t just a win; it was redemption for a manager who once saw a World Cup slip away with Spain in 2018. This time, destiny gave him back what football had once taken.

Qatar Makes History in Its Own Way

The victory over the UAE was anything but easy. Qatar took the lead, conceded the equalizer, and then found the decisive goal in the final minutes, triggering unprecedented euphoria in Doha. The stands erupted, players broke into tears, and Lopetegui was lifted on his players’ shoulders — the symbol of a transformation achieved in just five months.

Since his arrival, the Spaniard has changed the team’s course. He built his project on order, confidence, and a fierce competitive mentality that reignited hope in a nation dreaming of another shot at the global stage.

From Russia to Doha: Personal Redemption

Six years after that abrupt farewell before Russia 2018, Lopetegui returns to a World Cup — but this time with a completely different story. His work with Qatar not only restores his reputation but also brings back his smile and the respect of the football world.

In the coming months, the challenge will be even greater: to prepare a team capable of competing at the highest level and prove that Qatar isn’t just capable of hosting a World Cup… but of qualifying for one. And if things go as they are now, we might just see Lopetegui’s little dance again in 2026.