The UAE national football team is still in the race to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, despite the recent sacking of head coach Paulo Bento. With a crucial victory over North Korea, the UAE remains in contention for a direct qualification spot. Here’s a breakdown of their chances, key matches, and what needs to happen for them to reach the global stage for the first time since 1990.
Why Was Paulo Bento Sacked?
- The Portuguese coach, who took charge in July 2023, was dismissed on March 26, 2025.
- Despite leading UAE to a 2-1 victory over North Korea, the UAE Football Association decided to part ways with Bento.
- Bento’s record: 14 wins, 6 draws, and 6 losses.
- The UAE now seeks a new coach to guide them through the final phase of qualifiers.
Current Standing in Group A
- Iran has already secured qualification.
- Uzbekistan currently holds second place, four points ahead of UAE.
- UAE is in third place but can still secure an automatic qualification spot.
How Can UAE Qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
1. Direct Qualification Scenario
For UAE to qualify directly:
- UAE must defeat Uzbekistan (June 5, 2025) and Kyrgyzstan (June 10, 2025).
- Uzbekistan must lose their final match against Qatar (June 10, 2025).
- If these results occur, UAE will finish with 19 points, surpassing Uzbekistan’s 17 points, securing the second automatic spot in Group A.
2. Third Place and the Playoff Route
If UAE finishes third in Group A:
- They will move to the fourth round of AFC qualifiers.
- The fourth round consists of six teams, divided into two groups of three.
- The winners of each group earn the final two direct Asian qualification spots.
- The second-place finishers in each group will face off in an AFC playoff.
- The winner of the AFC playoff will compete in an intercontinental playoff for one of the last two World Cup spots.
Key Matches That Will Decide UAE’s Fate
- June 5, 2025 – UAE vs. Uzbekistan (Must-win game for UAE)
- June 10, 2025 – UAE vs. Kyrgyzstan (Must-win game for UAE)
- June 10, 2025 – Qatar vs. Uzbekistan (UAE needs Qatar to win)
Challenges Ahead for UAE
- The search for a new head coach before the final two qualifying games.
- The pressure of needing back-to-back wins while hoping for a favorable Uzbekistan result.
- Potential fixture difficulties in the fourth-round playoffs if direct qualification is missed.
Inshort
UAE’s path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is challenging but achievable. Direct qualification depends on their performance against Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, as well as Qatar’s ability to defeat Uzbekistan. Otherwise, they must navigate through additional qualifying rounds, making their road to the tournament more complex.
With the right leadership and strong performances in the upcoming matches, UAE can still make history and return to the FIFA World Cup after 36 years.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Has the UAE ever qualified for the FIFA World Cup?
Yes, UAE qualified for the 1990 FIFA World Cup, their only appearance to date.
2. What are UAE’s chances of direct qualification?
It depends on their performance against Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, along with Uzbekistan’s result against Qatar.
3. What if UAE does not finish in the top two?
They will enter a playoff system that includes AFC and intercontinental matchups.
4. When are UAE’s next World Cup qualifying matches?
- June 5, 2025: UAE vs Uzbekistan (Home)
- June 10, 2025: UAE vs Kyrgyzstan (Away)
5. How many teams from Asia qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
Asia has eight direct slots for the 2026 World Cup, plus a possible extra spot through intercontinental playoffs.
6. Who will be UAE’s new head coach?
The UAE Football Association has yet to announce a replacement for Paulo Bento.
Stay tuned for updates as UAE fights for a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup!
