FORMER Premier League boss Julen Lopetegui was left in agony after his own player smashed the ball into his face in a crucial World Cup qualifier.
The Spaniard is now head coach of Qatar and he booked a place in next year’s tournament with a 2-1 win over UAE.
It will be the second time Qatar have appeared at a World Cup finals and the first they have qualified for.
But the crunch match was not without its trouble for Lopetegui who was hit by the ball flush in his face.
The incident occurred when his own midfielder Assim Madibo threw himself into a full blooded challenge on Ali Saleh.
He won the ball, which appeared to ricochet off Saleh before hitting Lopetegui, who fell to the floor in agony.
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Madibo went to check on his manager, who was able to return to his feet after a few minutes.
He still looked a little dazed as cameras panned to him, but he was resilient and was soon back encouraging his players on the touchline.
The former Wolves and West Ham boss took over Qatar in May.
The win over UAE was just his second victory in six matches, with a draw against Oman helping them top group A in the fourth round of qualifying.
He said after the win: “It is amazing. Incredible day. Incredible achievement.
“It is historic. It has never happened in the country’s history.
“I’m very happy for my players and the fans… We achieved a big dream!”
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