Lopez hails Qatar’s history makers
Head coach Marquez Lopez lauded his Qatar players for their composure and focus in their 3-1 victory over Jordan in the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ final on Saturday.
16/02/2024 11:56:48
The hosts produced a dominant display from start to finish with Akram Afif netting a hat-trick of penalties to seal the victory at a packed Lusail Stadium, a victory which meant back-to-back AFC Asian Cup titles for Qatar.
“I’m extremely happy and I congratulate the Qatari people and the players. We are so happy that we won the match. The tension was high.
“Maybe it was not beautiful football but everyone remembers the winner and I’m proud of my players and their achievements,” said Lopez.
Afif’s hat-trick took his tally to eight, with his performances landing him the Most Valuable Player and AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 Yili Top Scorer Awards, and Lopez was effusive in his praise of the striker.
“I’m happy Akram (Afif) won both the awards and he deserves to win them.”
Qatar became only the fifth nation to win back-to-back AFC Asian Cup titles with Lopez having masterminded the triumph despite having only taken charge in December.
“I have been working in Qatar and I know the players well. It was easy to work with them and they effectively implemented our ideas on the field.
“For now, I’m going to go back to work with Al Wakrah (in the Qatar Stars League). I’m not sure what will happen but we will enjoy the moment for now.”
Source: AFC
