UAE came from behind to secure a 2–1 win in Oman, which lifted them to the top of Group A in the fourth round of the AFC World Cup 2026 qualifiers
UAE 2–1 Oman – UAE fight back to claim comeback victory and top Group A in AFC World Cup 2026 Qualifiers and edge closer to the party next year in Mexico-USA-Canada.
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Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers – AFC (Round 4, Group A)
Venue: Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium (Ar-Rayyan, Qatar)
Date: 12 October 2025
Highlights UAE 2–1 Oman
Oman started the match brightly and stunned their opponents with an early lead. In the 12th minute, UAE defender Autonne inadvertently deflected the ball into his own net while trying to clear a cross, gifting Oman a 1–0 advantage. The early setback left the UAE struggling to regain momentum. Despite dominating possession, they found it difficult to break through Oman’s well-organized defense during the first half.
After the break, coach Cosmin’s tactical adjustments made the difference. UAE pushed forward aggressively and finally found the equalizer in the 76th minute. Substitute Ali Saleh delivered a perfect cross from the right flank, and Marcus Meloni rose highest to head the ball past goalkeeper Al Mukhaini, leveling the score at 1–1 to the delight of the home fans.
The drama peaked in the 83rd minute. Following a neat exchange with Caio Canedo, forward Caio Lucas unleashed a stunning low strike from outside the box that flew into the bottom corner, leaving Al Mukhaini with no chance. The goal completed UAE’s spirited comeback and turned the match on its head, putting them 2–1 ahead.
In the final minutes, Oman pushed forward desperately in search of an equalizer, but goalkeeper Khalid Eisa stood firm, pulling off several key saves to secure all three points for the hosts.
Group A standings after UAE’s comeback at Oman
This victory gives the UAE a massive boost in their qualification campaign, moving them to the top of Group A with three points. They now need only to avoid defeat against Qatar in the final match to officially secure a ticket to the World Cup 2026 in North America.
Meanwhile, the heartbreaking loss drops Oman to third place, leaving them with only a slim chance of advancing through the playoff route. They would now need Qatar to lose to UAE by at least a three-goal margin to keep their hopes alive — a scenario that seems highly unlikely.
Curious about your team’s real-time prospects? Explore our up-to-date World Cup Odds here.
What’s Next in Group A
Qatar vs UAE: October 15, 00:00 (local time)
Check the latest M88 Mansion odds for the decisive Qatar vs UAE clash here.
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