The UAE is just one match away from securing a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Having only appeared in the global tournament in 1990, Cosmin Olaroiu’s team is eager to end their 35-year World Cup absence.
On Tuesday, the UAE will face Qatar (kick-off at 9 pm UAE Time) in the final game of the fourth round of the Asian World Cup qualifiers.
The UAE secured the top spot by defeating Oman 2-1 in their first match, while Qatar and Oman ended their game in a goalless draw, each earning one point.
With just one match left, let’s explore how the UAE can qualify for next year’s World Cup, co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico.
UAE need a draw
The UAE will secure a direct World Cup spot on Tuesday if they avoid losing to Qatar. A draw will be sufficient for the UAE. However, Qatar needs a win to advance.
If the UAE lose tomorrow
If Qatar defeats the UAE in Doha tomorrow, the 2022 World Cup host will qualify for next year’s tournament. The UAE will then finish second in their group, leading to a play-off round in November against the second-placed team from Group A, which includes Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Indonesia. The winner of this play-off will move on to the intercontinental play-off scheduled for March.
Form guide
Qatar enters Tuesday’s match after a lackluster performance against Oman. The UAE remains undefeated since Olaroiu took over as head coach in April this year.
The UAE also achieved impressive victories over Qatar last year, winning 3-1 in Doha and 5-0 in Abu Dhabi during the third round of Asian World Cup qualifiers.
The UAE has momentum, but Qatar will have strong support from home fans at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium in Doha.
Can the UAE maintain their composure and avoid defeat? The nation eagerly awaits the outcome.
