The battle for the final direct spots in the 2026 FIFA World Cup reached a fever pitch in the AFC Asian Qualifiers playoffs yesterday, as the UAE staged a dramatic late comeback against Oman and Iraq secured a vital win over Indonesia. The results have set the stage for two high-stakes final group matches that will determine which nations book their ticket to North America.
Group A: UAE Edges Out Oman in Late Drama
In a thrilling Gulf Derby in Doha, the United Arab Emirates defeated Oman 2-1, thanks to two late goals that overturned an early deficit. Oman, needing a result to stay in contention for automatic qualification, took a well-deserved 12th-minute lead when an attempted cross was deflected into the net for an own goal. The game looked set for a massive upset until the UAE’s late surge. Midfielder Marcus Meloni rose highest to head home the equalizer in the 76th minute. Just seven minutes later, the comeback was complete when Caio Lucas delivered a curling effort from the left flank that found the back of the net, sealing the crucial three points.
The win puts the UAE, with 3 points, at the top of Group A. They now need only a draw against hosts Qatar on Tuesday to secure their first World Cup qualification since 1990. Oman’s hopes of winning the group for automatic qualification have been dashed after two matches.
Group B: Iqbal’s Strike Keeps Iraq’s Dream Alive
In Jeddah, Iraq overcame a stubborn Indonesia side with a 1-0 victory. The single goal came late in the second half from substitute Zidane Iqbal. The former Manchester United prospect found the back of the net in the 76th minute, breaking a tactical deadlock where Indonesia had put up a spirited, disciplined performance, controlling parts of the first half. The loss, their second in the playoff round, officially eliminates Indonesia from the race for the 2026 World Cup.
For Iraq, the win moves them to 3 points, level with Saudi Arabia. This sets up a winner-takes-all clash against the Saudis on Tuesday. The winner of that match will claim the direct qualification spot for the World Cup.
The two Asian Qualifier groups now head into a nail-biting final round of fixtures, with everything to play for among the UAE, Qatar, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia. The two group runners-up will move on to a subsequent Asian Playoff round.
