As the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in Asia approached the final stage, the first match of the 5th stage became the focus of attention for all football fans. Because the results of this stage could determine the last team from our continent that could qualify for the World Cup.
A very tense and complex match between the UAE and Iraq national teams took place at the Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. In this match, the result was very important for both teams, as they are competing for 0.5 spots. That is, the winner of this stage will advance to the intercontinental playoffs, where they will have the opportunity to qualify for the World Cup.
The match was initially actively started by the UAE team. In the 18th minute, Luan Pereira capitalized on an opportunity near the penalty area to open the scoring. The stadium was filled with shouts for several minutes after his shot came off target.
However, the Iraqi team didn't wait long to respond. Five minutes later, in the 23rd minute, Al Hamadi shot with a serious advantage towards the goal, making the score 1:1. This goal increased the game's intrigue and encouraged both sides to act more actively.
In the second half, the teams made a series of substitutions. For the UAE, players such as Caio Lucas, Bruno, Salih were put on the field, while for Iraq, players such as Abdulkarim, Iqbal, and Karim joined the game. However, despite all efforts, the score remained unchanged. Bright play, clashes, speed - everything was there, but the goals didn't come back.
The only warning of the match was given to Iraqi Sher in the 71st minute. The match continued until the end with very impressive and rough performances, but the balance was not disrupted.
2026 World Cup Qualifiers. Asia. Stage 5
UAE - Iraq 1:1
November 13. Abu Dhabi. "Muhammad bin Zayed Stadium"
Goals: Luan Pereira (18) - Al Hamadi (23).
UAE: Eysa, Meloni (Rabi, 85), Pimenta, Zuhir, Amaral, Luan Pereira (Solih, 64), Nodir, Ramazon (Bruno, 64), Odil (Kayo Canedo, 89), Jimenez, Suhayl (Kayo Lucas, 46).
Iraq: Hashim, Ali, Hashim, Tahsin, Doski, Sher (Iqbal, 79), Jassim (Abdulkarim, 72), Al Ammari, Farji, Al Hamadi (Husayn, 46), Meme (Karim, 79).
Yellow card: Lion (71).
The return match will take place on November 18th in Iraq. In this debate, the pressure, responsibility, and anticipation will be even higher. Because it is this game that determines which team will participate in the intercontinental playoffs.
Both teams live with the dream of reaching the World Cup, and it's very interesting for fans to see which of them will make it to the finish line. The upcoming match will undoubtedly be full not only of results, but also of dramatic moments.
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