Qatar National Football Team Captain Announces Retirement

Godwin Isaac K

In a surprising turn of events, the esteemed captain of the Qatar National Football Team, Hassan Al Haydos has officially announced his retirement from professional football, marking the end of an illustrious career that has left an indelible mark on the nation’s sporting landscape.

During his career with Al Annabi, Al Haydos played 183 international matches, scoring 41 goals. He participated in the AFC Asian Cup four times: in the Qatar 2011 edition, Australia 2015, UAE 2019, and Qatar 2023.

Al Haydos won the Gulf Cup in 2014, the AFC Asian Cup in 2019, and the Qatar Football National Team’s historic win under his captaincy in 2023. He was also named Best Player of the Year at the Association’s annual awards ceremony in 2015.

The 33-year-old football icon first rose to prominence in 2008 and has since become a symbol of Qatar’s footballing prowess. His remarkable skill on the field, coupled with his exemplary sportsmanship and dedication, endeared him to fans both at home and abroad.

Throughout his career, he played a pivotal role in Qatar’s footballing evolution, contributing to the nation’s rise as a formidable force in the global arena. The Qatar Football Association has expressed its gratitude to Hassan Al Haydos for his invaluable service to the national team and the sport of football in the last 16 years.

On their Instagram page QFA posted. “The Qatar Football Association extends its deepest thanks, appreciation, and utmost gratitude to the captain of our national team, player Hassan Al Haydos, following his decision to retire from international play after a long and distinguished career with the national teams spanning many years,”

“Al Haydos played with the Qatari national teams for 16 years, during which he witnessed many achievements and was crowned with numerous awards, being a faithful and distinguished captain of Al-Annabi with his contribution and ethics praised by all. The Qatar Football Association is confident in his success in his upcoming professional journey, wishing him all the best,”

Al Haydos, thanked The Amir HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani by posting a photo of himself with His Highness with the caption: “Words of thanks fall short in the face of your continuous support and your stand with me throughout my journey with the national team.”

Hassan Al Haydos leaves behind a legacy of exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to the sport. Under his captaincy, the Qatar National Team achieved unprecedented success, including memorable victories in regional and international competitions.