Doha: Qatar’s national football team faces a decisive clash on Tuesday against the United Arab Emirates at Jassim bin Hamad Stadium in Al Sadd, in the final round of Group A of the AFC playoff qualifiers — the “Road to the 2026 World Cup” in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The UAE currently tops the group with three points from one match, while both Qatar and Oman have one point each. Qatar sits second on goal difference and enters this encounter with only one path forward — victory. A win would secure the Maroons a direct ticket to the World Cup, while a draw would force them into a playoff against the runner-up from Group B for a final qualification chance.

The reigning two-time Asian champions are determined to seal their place at the global stage. Spanish coach Julen Lopetegui will rely heavily on the brilliance of Akram Afif and Almoez Ali, alongside experienced stars like Hassan Al-Haydos, Mohammed Muntari, and Pedro Miguel, to lead the Maroons to triumph and fulfill the fans’ expectations.

Qatar concluded its preparations on Monday evening with a spirited training session at Khalifa International Stadium. The mood was electric, with visible focus and determination throughout the camp as the team gears up for one of its most important matches of the campaign.

In terms of head-to-head record, Qatar holds the upper hand across all competitions, having won seven of their 19 previous encounters, compared to six victories for the UAE, while six matches ended in draws.

However, the Emirati side boasts an edge in World Cup qualifying history. Out of five previous qualification meetings, the UAE has claimed three victories, Qatar just one, with one match ending level. The UAE scored 11 goals in those fixtures compared to five for the Maroons.

Only the top team in each group will advance directly to the 2026 World Cup, while the two second-place sides will face each other in a knockout playoff to determine who moves on to the intercontinental playoff stage.

Earlier in this group, Qatar drew 0–0 with Oman in the opening round, before the UAE defeated Oman 2–1 in the second round.