The UAE take on Iran on Thursday in a crunch World Cup 2026 qualifier in Tehran. A win for Paulo Bento’s side will keep the UAE in contention to qualify for the global showcase, being held in the USA, Mexico and Canada next year.
The UAE currently sit third in Group A, three points behind Uzbekistan and six points behind table-toppers Iran, with four games to play.
The top two teams from the group will qualify automatically, while the third and fourth placed teams from each group will enter into a six-team fourth round of qualifiers.
The UAE go into the match having won their last two group games against Qatar (5-0) and Kyrgyzstan (3-0).

Draper vows to overcome injury woes after Barcelona exit
Long-time NFL coach Dave McGinnis dies at 74
Mahrez takes Al-Ahli into Asian Champions League quarters as Al-Hilal exit
Dates confirmed for DP World ILT20 Season 5
IPL debutants shine as Sunrisers beat Royals