DOHA – Qatar have officially booked their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a thrilling 2–1 victory over the United Arab Emirates in the Asian qualifiers at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium.
Goals from Boualem Khoukhi and Pedro Miguel ensured Qatar’s passage to the World Cup, marking the first time the reigning Asian champions have qualified through the competitive rounds rather than as host nation.
Khoukhi opened the scoring with a powerful header early in the second half, followed by Miguel’s decisive strike from close range. The UAE pulled one back in stoppage time through Sultan Adil, after Qatar were reduced to ten men when Tarek Salman was sent off in the 89th minute, but the hosts held firm to secure the win.
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Under head coach Julen Lopetegui, Qatar topped Group A, sealing direct qualification and reaffirming their growing stature in Asian football. The victory also extends their impressive home record, with the team remaining unbeaten in Doha during the qualifiers.
The UAE, meanwhile, face a tougher path ahead as they look to keep their World Cup hopes alive through the playoff route.
