Overview
- Qatar beat the United Arab Emirates 2-1 in Doha to top the Asian play-off group and clinch direct qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
- Akram Afif said in a televised interview that he told home supporters to throw items to waste time, with videos showing him gesturing to the crowd.
- UAE fans hurled bottles, cups and sandals, barriers were breached and police intervened as tempers flared following Qatar’s second goal.
- UAE figures, including coach Cosmin Olaroiu and midfielder Marcus Meloni, decried hosting and ticket allocations they say favored Qatar, citing a small away allotment and scheduling disparities.
- AFC and FIFA reviews of the disturbances are anticipated, and the UAE could face disciplinary action that may affect scheduled play-off ties against Iraq, though no sanctions have been announced.