The match between the UAE and Iraq in Abu Dhabi ended in a 1-1 draw. This game was the first of two in the final stage of Asian qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. The match took place at the Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium with a large attendance of 32,000 spectators. The main reason for the draw was technical errors and defensive mistakes by the UAE team. Iraq took the lead with a goal by Ali Al-Hamadi following a defensive error by defender Lucas Vinícius. However, the UAE responded quickly: Lourenço Pereira scored a beautiful header with a precise cross from Abdullah Ramadan. UAE goalkeeper Khaled Eisa was the star of the match and was named man of the match. In the first half, the UAE team faced significant defensive problems, which allowed Iraq to control the game. In the second half, the initiative was also with Iraq, but its players failed to capitalize on several chances. The UAE team improved after substitutions made by coach Olariu Cosmin, creating several dangerous chances, including a goal that was ruled out for offside. The match ended in a draw. The return match will be held on the 18th in the city of Basra to determine the team that will represent Asia in the intercontinental playoff in Mexico in March.
