Overview

• The play-off opener for the UAE is tonight against Oman at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium in Doha, with Qatar to follow on Tuesday.
• Oman and Qatar drew 0-0 in the first match, which means the UAE advance with a draw and a win, while a defeat to Oman would end their bid.
• Coach Cosmin Olaroiu said all 27 squad members are fit and ready and urged a clever, combative display against a well-organised Oman.
• Captain Khalid Essa called on teammates to give “110 per cent” to seize a rare chance and “write history in golden letters.”
• Thousands of Emirati fans have traveled to Doha, the UAE ticket allocation is sold out, and the FA arranged charter flights and on-site ticket distribution with gifts.