Sunday 12 / October / 2025
MUSCAT: Oman’s head coach Carlos Queiroz praised his players’ determination after a closely-contested 2-1 defeat to the United Arab Emirates in Group A of the AFC Asian Qualifiers – Road to 26 Playoffs on Saturday at Doha’s Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium.
Oman took the lead early through an own goal by UAE’s Kouame Kouadio, but late strikes from Marcus Meloni and Caio Lucas handed UAE the win.
"Our players created many opportunities but failed to capitalise on them but they deserved a better result," said Queiroz.
The Portuguese manager added: "Oman's chances of qualifying remain, and our fans should be proud of the players' efforts and high fighting spirit despite all the challenges."
UAE will be bidding for a second appearance at the finals after having made their debut in 1990 and need to avoid a defeat to hosts Qatar to advance on Tuesday.
Oman's dream for their global stage bow now depends on the Qatar-UAE result, with the second-placed team from the group advancing to a playoff against the Group B runners-up, with the winners to bid for one final chance in the FIFA playoff tournament.
UAE coach Cosmin Olaroiu admitted the match tested his side. “It was very difficult, and I congratulate our players for their determination. We had to make tactical changes at halftime, and the team responded to win the match,” he said.
