Qatar, UAE set sights on World Cup berth in blockbuster clash

Doha, Qatar: Asian champions Qatar and the United Arab Emirates are gearing up for a decisive showdown at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium tomorrow, with a di...

Doha, Qatar: Asian champions Qatar and the United Arab Emirates are gearing up for a decisive showdown at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium tomorrow, with a direct ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the line.

The clash will decide the only automatic qualification spot from Group A. Such is the anticipation surrounding this blockbuster clash that tickets were almost completely sold out more than 48 hours ahead of kickoff. Hosts Qatar are expected to enjoy massive support from their fans.

The UAE go into the decisive tie with a major boost following a dramatic 2-1 comeback win over Oman on Saturday night, a result that propelled them to the top of the group standings. Qatar, meanwhile, were held to a goalless draw by Oman in their opening match. With Oman finishing the single round-robin phase with just one point, their chances of automatic qualification have been dashed.

The equation is now clear: the UAE need only a draw to qualify directly for the World Cup while Qatar must win to avoid going through the challenging play-off route for the last remaining spot.

Qatar, who have been preparing behind closed doors, are expected to adopt an aggressive strategy in tomorrow’s must-win match, with possible changes in the starting XI likely as coach Julen Lopetegui looks to shake things up.