Thousands of Emirati Supporters Gather in Doha for Key World Cup Qualifier Against Oman
Assalamu Alaikum! Excitement is building as thousands of Emirati brothers and sisters have arrived in Doha, dressing the city in white to cheer on our national team ahead of the crucial World Cup qualifier play-off match.
All 5,000 tickets allocated to the UAE fans for the first match in the three-team playoff against Oman at the Jassim bin Hamad Stadium, which holds 15,000 spectators, have been sold out.
The victorious team from this group, which also includes the host nation Qatar, will secure a spot in the World Cup finals set to take place next year in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
For the UAE, this would mark a return to the World Cup stage for the first time since 1990. Qatar participated as hosts in the last tournament, while Oman is still striving to make their debut.
Given the significance of this competition and the close proximity to the UAE, the enthusiasm among fans to support the team has been overwhelming.
Many have taken advantage of specially arranged flights from various airports across the Emirates to reach Doha, while others have driven the 700km journey. The football authorities worked closely with border officials to facilitate smooth entry into Qatar.
Fans who picked up their match tickets at the UAE Football Association's delegation office in the Radisson Blu Hotel in Doha were warmly welcomed with scarves and gifts as a token of appreciation.
Later on Friday evening, large groups gathered at Souk Waqif, a lively marketplace in the heart of Qatar’s capital, to celebrate and show their support.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mubarak, president of the UAE Football Association, sent his heartfelt wishes for success to our players facing their Omani brothers.
"The UAE football fans stand united behind our national team as they strive to qualify for the 2026 World Cup," Sheikh Hamdan expressed.
"Our team is blessed with talented players who bring both local and international experience, and these gifts equip them to achieve their dreams."
UAE goalkeeper and captain Khalid Essa compared the excitement before the playoff to the Gulf Cup, a regional competition that ignites passionate support.
He recalled the memorable 2007 Gulf Cup victory, which was sealed with a win over Oman thanks to Ismail Matar’s decisive goal. That triumph sparked joyous celebrations across the Emirates.
Essa acknowledged that while the Gulf Cup holds a special place, this World Cup qualifier carries different stakes and goals.
"It feels like a mini Gulf Cup but with higher stakes," he said. "This match’s outcome will decide who moves on to the World Cup next summer."
Matches between the UAE and Oman are generally friendly and respectful, especially compared to rivalries with other teams like Qatar.
Some say the fixture means more to Oman’s players due to the greater focus on UAE football, but UAE coach Cosmin Olaroiu dismissed any notion that his players would be less driven.
"Both teams are familiar with this derby and will fight hard," Olaroiu affirmed. "We know Oman has a strong spirit, but we must give our all and believe in ourselves to succeed."
May Allah bless our team and grant them strength and success in this important match. Ameen.
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