Qatar booked their spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday after defeating the United Arab Emirates 2-1 in Doha. The victory, achieved at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium, was secured thanks to second-half strikes from captain Boualem Khoukhi and Pedro Miguel. Both goals came off precise assists from Akram Afif, the two-time Asian Player of the Year.
This result allowed Qatar, winners of the last two Asian Cups, to finish at the top of Group A in the fourth round of Asian qualifying. With this achievement, the 2022 World Cup hosts earned direct entry to next summer’s tournament across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The UAE, who required only a draw to qualify for a second World Cup in their history, will now face Iraq in a two-legged playoff. The winner of that tie will advance to an intercontinental playoff for a final chance to reach the 2026 finals.
Match events and key moments
The opening stages saw Qatar create the first real opportunity, with Sultan Al Brake forcing a sharp save from UAE goalkeeper Khalid Essa. Ayoub Al Ouwi followed up, but his rebound attempt went wide. At the other end, UAE defender Lucas Pimenta narrowly missed from a Caio Lucas cross, while Mohammad Al Mannai failed to convert a well-delivered ball from Edmilson Junior.
Four minutes into the second half, Qatar broke the deadlock. Khoukhi connected with Afif’s curling free kick to head past Essa. The lead was doubled in the 74th minute when Pedro Miguel scored from another Afif set piece after the UAE keeper misjudged the delivery.
Late in the game, Qatar saw Tarek Salman receive a red card for a studs-up challenge. In the eighth minute of added time, UAE substitute Sultan Adil volleyed in a goal to reduce the deficit, but it was too late to change the outcome.
Reflecting on Qatar’s journey
Qatar’s qualification marks a significant milestone following their disappointing 2022 World Cup campaign, where they became the first hosts in history to lose all three group matches. Under the guidance of coach Julen Lopetegui, who has managed Spain, Real Madrid, and West Ham, the team now heads to the 2026 tournament, having secured their place on merit.
The victory showcased Qatar’s strength in set-piece situations and the influence of Afif’s playmaking ability. With the direct qualification confirmed, the focus will shift to preparations for next summer’s global competition.