Qatar's Asian Cup 2019 winning football national team, headed by coach Felix Sanchez Bas, arrived back to Doha yesterday night (February 2) and was warmly welcomed at the Hamad International Airport by no less than HH Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani.

Lifting the historic Asian Cup trophy while wearing their signature maroon and white uniforms, the 23-member team was met with pomp and splendor from the moment they set foot at the airport up to the Qatar Football Association-organized hero's welcome waiting for them at the Corniche.

Before riding their float, the Amir congratulated the players, coaching and administrative staff for the historic achievement. He praised the outstanding performance and the high sporting spirit of the team in the championship and wished them success in the upcoming tournaments before smiling for the camera for official group photographs.

There were a number of exciting activities organized by the Qatar Cultural and Heritage Events Center at the venue before and during the actual parade including multiple big screens, free parking, and even a fire works display to commemorate the historic win. Besides the show of patriotism, bike rider groups as well took part in the champions' entourage.

The Qatari team arrived in Doha via Oman, as direct flights between Qatar and Asian Cup 2019 host UAE remain banned due to a nearly two-year blockade imposed on Doha by its Gulf neighbours.

Among the high-ranking officials who were present to welcome the new Asian Cup champs were the Amir's personal representative HH Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al-Thani, Qatar Olympic Committee president HE Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al-Thani, and a number of dignitaries, ministers, senior officials, and families of the players.

Olympic and youth players, and a large number of citizens, residents and members of the media, also attended the reception.

Qatar made history last Friday (February 1) when it won the well-fought Asian Cup 2019 top prize for the first time. The team conceded only one goal in the whole tournament and won all seven games, a record that easily pinned their final opponent down—Japan—with a score of 3-1.

Were you also at the Corniche yesternight to welcome the new kings of Asian football? If yes, drop us a line in the comments and also, don't forget to like and share this article—it keeps us going!

(Cover image courtesy of: The Peninsula Qatar)

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Sonkie

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