UAE 1-1 Iraq
Match Information
- Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualifiers โ AFC (Fifth Round)
- Stadium: Mohammed Bin Zayed Stadium (Abu Dhabi)
- Date: 13 Nov 2025
Our UAE vs Iraq highlights reveal a determined effort by Al-Abyad, resulting in a draw in the first leg of the two-legged playoff series in Dubai.
Luanzinho scored a header into the corner to tie the match at the 18th minute.
The Brazilian-born forward’s heroics came after Ali Al-Hamadi opened the scoring with a close-range shot, giving Iraq a 1-0 lead in the 10th minute.
Caio Lucas nearly gave the UAE the victory in stoppage time, but his header was called offside.
For additional results, predictions, and news, visit our World Cup 2026 qualifiers coverage. Now, let’s take a closer look at team performances during the match.
UAE vs Iraq football: More Al-Abyad possessions help avoid stinging loss
The UAE’s hustlers played well early to avoid a stinging loss.
Al-Abyad were in control of 52% of possessions compared to 48% for the Lions of Mesopotamia.
Additionally, the UAE had more saves (4-2), shots blocked (5-2), and key passes (11-8) according to team statistics following the match.
On the other hand, Iraq led in Action areas (31.60-26.90) and attacks (87-78).
Stay informed about upcoming matches by reviewing our World Cup 2026 schedule and fixtures. Next, let’s consider the historical context for the UAE and Iraq’s World Cup pursuits.
Al-Abyad seeks to end 35-year World Cup wait
The UAE is attempting to return to the World Cup after a 35-year wait.
Al-Abyad made their only appearance at football’s biggest show in 1990, where they placed 24th.
On the other hand, Iraq had a longer wait for this opportunity: 39 years.
The Lions of Mesopotamia aim to qualify for the World Cup for only the second time, having last achieved this feat in 1986.
Access the most recent list of qualified teams for the tournament here. For more insight and expert coverage, explore the related content below.
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What’s Next:
The Iraq vs UAE fixture would be the second leg of the teams’ fifth round of Asian qualifying on November 18, 2025.
The two teams will travel to the Iraqi port city of Basra for the return leg of the match.
A place in FIFA’s intercontinental playoff round in March 2026 awaits the winner.
Six teams from five confederations gather to vie for two spots and join the expanded 48-team World Cup.
Find your favorite team’s latest odds on our updated World Cup Odds page. As excitement builds, see how you can get involved with our exclusive promotions below.
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