October 14, 2025

UAE Defeat Oman 2–1 to Stay on Course for 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualification

FIFA World Cup

Doha, The Gulf Observer: The United Arab Emirates national football team earned a vital 2–1 victory over Oman on Saturday at the Jassim bin Hamad Stadium in Doha, keeping their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes alive.

With this win, the UAE top Group A in the Asian qualifying play-offs with three points, while Oman remain on one. The result means the UAE now need only a draw in their upcoming match against hosts Qatar on Tuesday to secure qualification for the World Cup.

Oman took the early lead in the 12th minute, when Issam Al Subhi’s strike deflected off defender Kwame Atun and found the back of the net past goalkeeper Khalid Eisa.

The UAE fought back strongly in the second half. Although a VAR review overturned an initially awarded penalty after Ali Saleh was brought down in the box, the Emiratis continued to press forward. Their efforts paid off in the 76th minute when Marcos Miloni equalized with a brilliant header from a Saleh cross.

Just eight minutes later, Caio Lucas sealed the comeback victory with a stunning long-range shot that left the Omani goalkeeper helpless.

Goalkeeper Khalid Eisa produced several vital saves in the closing stages to maintain the lead and secure a crucial win for the UAE. With this result, the team stands one step away from booking their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.