World Cup hosts Qatar suffer surprise loss to Linfield managed by David Healy in a warm-up match in Marbella

Qatar fell to a shock 1-0 defeat to Irish League champions Linfield as they continue their preparations for hosting this winter’s World Cup. The hosts fielded seven players who drew 0-0 with Slovenia in March, but they were left frustrated by the Belfast side in Marbella, with striker Chris McKee netting a first-half winner.

Ad/> Qatar had been unbeaten in nine games – a penalty shootout victory over Egypt in the FIFA Arab Cup the highlight of the run – but were brought crashing down to earth by David Healy’s Linfield. Transfers'A very creative player' — Arsenal sign Vieira on a long-term contract6 HOURS AGO /> Linfield — who will play against The New Saints in the Champions League first qualifying round next month – have history against nationals teams having famously played reigning world champions Argentina at Windsor Park in April 1990, losing 1-0 to the visiting side missing Diego Maradona.

And in September 2002, the Blues defeated Kenya 1-0 at the Belfast venue. Qatar will start their 2022 World Cup campaign on November 21 with a match against Ecuador.

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