Abdulaziz Hatem

Early Life and Background

Abdulaziz Hatem Mohammed Abdullah is a prominent Qatari professional footballer known for his role as a midfielder. He began his football journey in Qatar, where he developed his skills and passion for the sport, eventually rising to prominence in the national and club arenas.

Club Career

Hatem's professional career kicked off in 2007 with Al-Arabi SC, where he showcased his talent for eight years until 2015. Following his stint at Al-Arabi, he transferred to Al-Gharafa SC, contributing significantly to the team's success until 2019. In July 2019, he made a move to Al-Rayyan SC, where he continues to play and has taken on the role of captain for the Qatar national team.

International Career

Hatem made his debut for the Qatar national football team in December 2009 during the 9th International Friendship Tournament. He also represented Qatar in the 2012 Summer Olympic qualifiers, where a controversial decision led to FIFA overturning a match result due to his eligibility issues. Despite this setback, Hatem has been a vital player for Qatar, being selected for the 26-man squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Achievements and Legacy

Throughout his career, Hatem has garnered numerous honors, including multiple Sheikh Jassim Cups with Al-Arabi and Qatari Stars Cups with Al-Gharafa and Al-Rayyan. He has also played a crucial role in Qatar's victories in the AFC Asian Cup in 2019 and 2023, as well as the Arabian Gulf Cup and WAFF Championship in 2014. His individual accolades include selections for the AFC Asian Cup Team of the Tournament in 2019 and the FIFA Arab Cup Team of the Tournament in 2021, solidifying his status as one of Qatar's footballing greats.