Breathtaking win over Oman, UAE opens door to World Cup

The match between UAE and Oman in Group A of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in Asia was full of drama and emotion. After Oman and Qatar drew in the opening match, UAE knew that a victory over Oman would open the door to the World Cup.

However, things were not easy. In the 12th minute, UAE midfielder Kouame Kouadio unexpectedly scored an own goal, helping Oman take the lead.

UAE vs Oman.jpg — The joy of UAE players after the valuable victory against Oman - Photo: AFC

Doused with cold water, UAE tried to push up the attack but were met with a disciplined Oman defense. It was not until the 73rd minute that their efforts were rewarded when Barbosa Meloni scored the equalizer after a clever pass from Saleh.

When the match seemed to end in a draw, Caio Lucas suddenly shone in the 83rd minute with an accurate finish, bringing a thrilling 2-1 victory to UAE.

This result helps UAE rise to the top of Group A with a big advantage before the final decisive match against Qatar. With just a draw, coach Paulo Bento and his team will officially win a ticket to the 2026 World Cup in North America.

Meanwhile, Oman still has a little hope of reaching the biggest football festival on the planet, if Qatar loses to UAE by 2 goals or more. Then Oman will be in second place in the group and will play a play-off match with the second team in group B to win a ticket to the inter-zone play-off.

Score

UAE: Meloni 76', Caio Lucas 83'

Oman: Kouame Kouadio 12' (own goal)

Line-up

UAE: Eisa, Amaral, Pimenta, Kouadio, Alghassani, Hassan, Lima, Gimenez, Ramadan, Barbosa Meloni, Caio Lucas

Oman: Al Mukhaini, Al Rushaidi, Al Harthi, Al Braiki, Al Busaidi, Al Alawi, Al Rawahi, Dahman, Al Saadi, Al Khamisi, Al Sabhi