The Bahrain national football team, known as "Al-Ahmar" (The Red), represents the Kingdom of Bahrain in international football. Based in Riffa, their primary home ground is the Bahrain National Stadium. The team was founded in 1951 and wears a traditional red kit. Bahraini football has historically been a competitive middleweight in Asia, with several near-misses defining their journey. Their peak period came in the 2000s, when they finished fourth in the 2004 AFC Asian Cup and came agonizingly close to qualifying for the 2006 and 2010 FIFA World Cups, losing in intercontinental playoffs each time. The modern era has seen them remain a tricky opponent in Gulf and Asian competitions, relying on a solid defensive structure and experienced campaigners like captain Sayed Mohamed Adnan. The team enjoys strong local support, with matches often creating a vibrant atmosphere. Bahrain continues to aim for a breakthrough to its first-ever World Cup finals.