A little over a year ago, Qatar hosted the 22nd FIFA World Cup, bringing world football to the Gulf and Gulf culture to the world. This month, Qatar will host the 18th edition of the AFC Asian Cup, and with it comes the release of a brand new tournament theme song.
‘Hadaf’ – the Arabic word for ‘goal’ – is the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023’s Official Song. With lyrics written by Kuwaiti author Heba Hamada, the song will be performed by Qatari singer Fahad Al-Hajjaji and Kuwaiti singer Humood AlKhudher.
The new theme song’s lyrics and melody aims to inspire people to pursue their ‘hadaf’, as well as cheer on their national team as they take on the challenge, try to score goals, and secure national victory.
‘Dreamers’, Qatar’s 2022 World Cup theme song, was a global hit. Sung by Jungkook of BTS and featuring Qatari singer Fahad Al Kubaisi, the song went on to break multiple records, including becoming the first World Cup song to hit No.1 on iTunes’ Top Songs chart in over 100 countries and regions.
An opening ceremony titled The Lost Chapter of Kelileh and Demneh, will be held at Lusail Stadium on January 12 (5pm GST), and will be directly followed by the opening match Qatar vs Lebanon (8pm GST).