UAE one step away from historic World Cup spot

A DRAW AGAINST QATAR IS ALL OLAROIU’S MEN NEED FOR QUALIFICATION

- BY SHAMSEER MOHAMMED Staff Writer

UAE players celebrate their win at the end of the Fifa World Cup 2026 Asian qualifier match against Oman at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium in Doha last Saturday.

(AFP)

The battle for a direct ticket to the 2026 Fifa World Cup has reached its climax in the AFC Playoff Group A as the UAE face hosts Qatar at the Jassim bin Hamad Stadium in Doha today.

Contrast in form

The two nations enter this match on opposing trajectories. The UAE, under Cosmin Olaroiu, arrive with impressive momentum, unbeaten in their last seven games and on a sensational fourgame winning streak. Their morale is skyhigh following the dramatic 2-1 comeback victory against Oman — a key psychological win that demonstrates fighting spirit. Conversely, Qatar, led by Julen Lopetegui, is under immense pressure. The hosts are winless in their last five games and struggled to a frustrating 0-0 draw against Oman at home to start the playoff.

Qualification scenarios