UAE National Football Team joins Group A for 2026 World Cup qualifiers

KUALA LUMPUR: In the draw for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Asian qualifiers’ third round, the UAE national football team found itself placed in Group A alongside teams like Iran, Qatar, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and North Korea.

The draw ceremony, held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, saw representatives from all participating teams gather to learn their group assignments.

Group B features the Republic of Korea, Iraq, Jordan, Oman, Palestine, and Kuwait, while Group C includes Japan, Australia, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, China, and Indonesia.

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The final phase of qualifiers is set to take place from 5th September 2024 to 10th June 2025.

During this round, 18 teams were sorted into three groups, each comprising six teams. The top two teams from each group will directly qualify for the 2026 World Cup, securing six out of the eight spots allocated to the Asian Football Confederation (AFC). The remaining spots will be determined through Asian play-offs, with a potential additional spot available through the global play-off.

The UAE national football team, founded in 1972, carries a rich history of perseverance and national pride. From its early days, the team has grown to become a symbol of unity and aspiration for the nation. They achieved their first major triumph by winning the Gulf Cup in 1980, marking a significant milestone in Emirati football.

Over the years, the team has experienced highs and lows, including qualifying for their first FIFA World Cup in 1990 and securing notable victories in regional competitions. Their crowning achievement came in 2019 when they triumphed in the AFC Asian Cup, hosted on home soil, showcasing their resilience and skill on an international stage. The UAE national team continues to inspire and unite the country, embodying the spirit of dedication and determination in pursuit of football excellence.

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