UAE's thrilling victory over Oman opens the door to the World Cup.

The UAE staged a breathtaking comeback against Oman to take the lead in Group A of the 2026 World Cup qualifying round 4 in the Asian region, opening the door to North America next summer.

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 understood that a victory against Oman would open the door to the World Cup.

However, things were not so easy. In the 12th minute, UAE's central defender Kouame Kouadio unexpectedly scored an own goal, giving Oman the lead.

The joy of the UAE players after their valuable victory against Oman - Photo: AFC

Having been dealt a blow, the UAE tried to push forward in attack but were met with Oman's disciplined defense. It wasn't until the 73rd minute that their efforts paid off when Barbosa Meloni scored the equalizer after a clever pass from Saleh.

Just when the match seemed destined to end in a draw, Caio Lucas unexpectedly shone in the 83rd minute with a precise finish, securing a thrilling 2-1 victory for the UAE.

This result puts UAE at the top of Group A, giving them a significant advantage going into the final decisive match against Qatar. A draw would be enough for Paulo Bento's team to officially secure their place in the 2026 World Cup in North America.

Meanwhile, Oman still has a glimmer of hope of reaching the biggest football event on the planet, if Qatar loses to UAE by two goals or more. In that case, Oman would finish second in the group and would play a play-off match against the second-placed team in Group B to qualify for the inter-regional play-off.

Score a goal

UAE: Meloni 76', Caio Lucas 83'

Oman: Kouame Kouadio 12' (own goal)

Starting lineup

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

Source: https://vietnamnet.vn/ket-qua-bong-da-uae-vs-oman-vong-loai-world-cup-2026-2394628.html