Longevity has its place as Qatar's project 2022 reaps rewards

COMPACT DEFENCE

While that Ali-Afif combination is always a threat, it was the compact defence that laid the foundation for the run to the title in the UAE, conceding just the one goal in seven matches.

It is likely to be sorely tested in June at the Copa America in Brazil, however, when the Qataris will play as a guest team in a group featuring Argentina, Colombia and Paraguay.

"We're not expecting to get results but just to learn because after the World Cup, the Copa America is one of the biggest competitions in the world," said Ali.

"Asia is the weakest continent for football so at the Copa America we will learn more. As a team from the Gulf, that will help us to have a better performance in 2022."

Qatar have never qualified for the World Cup, which means they will play their maiden finals match on home soil -- the first team to do so since Italy in 1934.

The potential of embarrassment for the host nation, as well as the deep pockets and capriciousness of the Qatar FA, have led to the likes Zinedine Zidane being linked with Sanchez's job.

"We're focused on our work and enjoying this historic moment," Sanchez said when asked if he wanted to coach the team at the World Cup.

"2022 is three years away and this is football, we don't even know what's going to happen in three weeks."