The United Arab Emirates are on the verge of making football history. With just one game left in the fourth round of the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Cosmin Olaroiu’s side need only a draw against Qatar to book their place at next year’s global event.

The UAE’s 2-1 victory over Oman in their first match in Doha on Friday put them at the top of their group with three points. Qatar and Oman, who played out a goalless draw in their encounter, trail behind with one point each.

Now, all eyes are on Tuesday’s decisive clash at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium in Doha. The equation is simple: a draw will see the UAE qualify directly for the World Cup for the first time since 1990. A loss, however, would force them into a difficult play-off route in November.

If Qatar defeat the UAE, the reigning Asian champions will leapfrog Olaroiu’s men to grab the automatic qualification spot. The UAE would then finish second in the group, setting up a play-off tie against the Group A runners-up — one of Saudi Arabia, Iraq, or Indonesia — with the winner advancing to the intercontinental play-off scheduled for March.

For Olaroiu and his squad, Tuesday’s game represents more than just a football match; it’s a shot at redemption and history. The team has been unbeaten since the Romanian coach took charge in April, showing tactical discipline, attacking flair, and renewed confidence.

The UAE have also enjoyed recent dominance over Qatar, winning both encounters in last year’s third-round qualifiers — 3-1 in Doha and 5-0 in Abu Dhabi. Those results, combined with the current form, have boosted the nation’s optimism.

Yet, Qatar will not go down without a fight. Playing at home, with strong crowd support, the 2022 World Cup hosts will look to bounce back from their lacklustre draw against Oman. Their attacking prowess, especially in front of their home fans, could pose a real challenge for the UAE defence.

For Emirati fans, this moment carries immense emotion. The nation has waited 35 years to return to football’s biggest stage since their solitary appearance at Italia ’90. Streets, cafes, and homes across the Emirates will be buzzing with anticipation when the whistle blows in Doha.

A win or a draw would not only end decades of disappointment but also reaffirm the UAE’s growing status in Asian football. As the countdown begins, the question remains — can Olaroiu’s men hold their nerve and make history?

The answer, and perhaps the beginning of a new footballing chapter, will unfold under the floodlights in Doha on Tuesday night.