Qatar defeats UAE to secure 2026 FIFA World Cup berth
Historic win marks Qatar’s first-ever World Cup qualification through group stage, topping Asian Group A after 2-1 victory in Doha
DOHA, Qatar (MNTV) — Qatar has qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after defeating the United Arab Emirates 2-1 on Tuesday night, marking the nation’s first-ever progression through the official qualification route.
The hosts of the 2022 World Cup, who failed to advance beyond the group stage three years ago, clinched top spot in Group A of the Asian qualifiers, finishing ahead of the UAE, who now move to the fifth-round playoffs. Oman was eliminated after placing third.
Qatar’s breakthrough came shortly after halftime when defender Boualem Khoukhi headed in Akram Afif’s well-placed free kick past UAE goalkeeper Khalid Essa in the 47th minute. Seventeen minutes before the final whistle, Afif delivered another pinpoint cross, this time converted by Pedro Miguel at the far post to double the lead.
UAE’s hopes briefly revived in stoppage time when Sultan Adil struck from close range after Tarek Salman was sent off in the 87th minute, leaving Qatar with ten men.
Despite heavy pressure during the 15 minutes of added time, the Maroons held firm to seal the historic win.
The victory sends Qatar to its second consecutive World Cup appearance, but its first as a qualified team, signaling growing strength within Asian football.
Fans celebrated exuberantly at Doha’s Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium as the final whistle confirmed their team’s spot at the global tournament.
Meanwhile, Japan and South Korea — both already qualified for the 2026 World Cup — registered friendly wins against South American opponents.
Japan stunned Brazil 3-2 in Tokyo with Ayase Ueda’s decisive header in the 71st minute, while South Korea maintained their strong form ahead of next year’s competition.
Have Your Say!
Have you been affected by the issues raised in this story? Please share your experiences by emailing haveyoursay@soundvision.com.
Please include a contact number if you are willing to speak to a Muslim Network TV’s representative. You can also get in touch in the following ways:
Tweet: @MuslimNetworkTV
We must take charge of our narrative. Research indicates that 92% of their Muslim coverage is negative. Help us change that.
