The group stage of the FIFA Arab Cup 2021™ came to its conclusion on Tuesday, leaving us with eight remaining teams in what promises to be action-packed quarter-finals. FIFA.com has selected some of the best photos from the opening 24 matches.

Emotional Almoez The undeniably talented Qatari star, Almoez Ali, came on as a second half substitute against Iraq to grab himself a goal in the 82nd minute. After failing to score in the first two games of the tournament, Ali celebrated in style.

First goal delight Amro Elsoulia’s strike against Algeria was special in more ways than one. Not only did it secure a point for the Pharaohs, but it was also his first goal in an Egyptian shirt. The Egyptian captain will be glad to be off the mark for his national team as he finally replicates his fine goal-scoring form shown for his club Al Ahly in the CAF Champions League.

Palestinian heartbreak Tamer Seyam played a vital part in helping Palestine qualify for the Arab Cup 2021 after he scored a brace against Comoros in the qualifiers back in June. The 29-year-old striker was again heavily involved in the final group match against Jordan, reducing the deficit with his side two down. He did, however, miss several golden chances to add to that tally, and his disappointment was evident after his team’s 5-1 defeat.

Shock exit Syria’s victory over Tunisia in the second round of games was probably the biggest upset of the group stages. The result left the Qasioun Eagles needing the same outcome against Mauritania in the final group game to reach the quarter-finals. However, the latter managed to get their first victory of the tournament, denying Syria a place in the next round. Moaiad Alkhouli could not hide his despair following an early exit from the tournament.

Eye catching tattoo Despite Lebanon’s hard-fought victory over Sudan, captain Mohamad Haidar was not able to prevent his team’s exit from the competition. However, his affection for his two sons, Naji and Sultan, was clearly on show with this striking tattoo inked on his chest.

A flying Red Omani striker Khalid Al Hajri has so far played a crucial role for Oman in the tournament. After bagging a goal against both Qatar and Bahrain, he is the team's top scorer. Al Hajri's marksmanship is more than matched by his trademark celebration, which he produces without fail. Will we be seeing this acrobatic celebration against Tunisia on Friday?

Celebrate good times The Algerian team booked their place in the last eight after recording their second win of Group D against Lebanon. Coach Madjid Bougherra’s players celebrated qualification in a jovial manner, as Sofiane Bendebka joked around with Hocine Benayada in the above photo.

Eyes on the prize? Mahmoud Almardi led his Bahraini club, Al-Muharraq, to the AFC Cup title last month and is continuing his winning streak with Jordan here in Qatar. Almardi helped Al Nashama to beat Saudi Arabia in the first group game and scored a goal in the resounding victory over Palestine. Will the midfielder be able to lead his country to victory as he did with his club?

Large attendance The Arab Cup group games drew substantial crowds, and there was no shortage of excitement for fans with games living up to expectations. The opening match between Qatar and Bahrain was attended by 47,813 spectators, while the Egypt-Algeria clash drew more than 32,000 in what was an enthralling contest from beginning to end.