Tag: UAE

UAE Shocks Football World by Sacking Paulo Bento After Narrow Win Over North Korea

Dubai – In a surprising move, the United Arab Emirates Football Association (UAEFA) has dismissed  the Portuguese Paulo Bento as head coach of the national team—just hours after a dramatic 2-1 victory over North Korea kept their slim 2026 World Cup qualification hopes alive.

The decision has left many observers puzzled, as the UAE remains in contention for a direct qualification spot. They currently sit four points behind second-placed Uzbekistan in Group A of the third round of Asian qualifiers, with two matches remaining. The top two teams from each group secure automatic entry to the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Bento, who took charge in July 2023, was relieved of his duties alongside his entire coaching staff. The UAEFA announced the decision on social media without providing further details.

Why the Sudden Move?

Despite the win over North Korea—sealed by a late stoppage-time goal—the UAE’s recent form has been inconsistent. A 2-0 loss to Iran just days earlier had already put pressure on Bento’s position.

However, the team still has a realistic chance:

  • Direct qualification: If they overtake Uzbekistan in the final two matches.
  • Playoff route: Finishing third or fourth would enter them into an additional playoff round for one of Asia’s eight guaranteed World Cup spots.

Bento’s Track Record

The 55-year-old Portuguese manager is no stranger to high-stakes football:

  • Led South Korea to the 2022 World Cup knockout stage.
  • Guided Portugal to the Euro 2012 semifinals.
  • Took over the UAE after their previous coach, Rodolfo Arruabarrena, was dismissed.

Meanwhile, Iran became the first team from Group A to secure World Cup qualification after a 2-2 draw against Uzbekistan.

The sudden dismissal raises questions about the UAEFA’s long-term vision, especially with crucial matches looming. Who will replace Bento—and can they salvage the UAE’s World Cup dreams?

Team Melli One Step Away from FIFA World Cup 2026 Qualification After 2-0 Victory Over UAE

Team Melli is now just one point away from securing a spot in the FIFA World Cup 2026 – to be held in Canada, Mexico, and the USA – after defeating the UAE national football team 2-0 at Azadi Stadium.

The match, played under heavy rain, saw a strong turnout from fans but was unexpectedly disrupted due to stadium lighting issues. The Korean referee, Ko, was forced to halt the game for nearly 30 minutes. While television broadcasts did not indicate a significant reduction in visibility, one of the floodlight towers suffered multiple failures, reportedly falling below the minimum requirement for play.

Match Summary

From the opening whistle, Team Melli took the initiative, launching relentless attacks. In the 8th minute, Sardar Azmoun delivered a precise pass to Mohammad Mohebbi, but the Rostov forward squandered a golden opportunity with a weak shot, which UAE goalkeeper Khalid Eissa comfortably cleared.

Iran dominated possession, with midfielders Saman Ghoddos and Roozbeh Cheshmi effectively controlling the game and closing down spaces, preventing the UAE from creating meaningful chances.

The breakthrough came just before halftime when Ghoddos lofted a perfectly placed ball into the box. Azmoun rose above two defenders and powered a header past Eissa, giving Iran a well-deserved 1-0 lead.

The UAE had a rare chance to equalize after an uncharacteristic mistake by Ghoddos, whose misplaced pass was intercepted, leaving the Emirati forward one-on-one with Alireza Beiranvand. However, the striker failed to capitalize, sending his shot wide.

Second Half Action

Iran continued their high-pressing approach in the second half, denying the UAE time on the ball. Midway through the half, Mohebbi seemed to have doubled the lead after an impressive solo run from the halfway line, but his goal was ruled out for a marginal offside.

Mohebbi, however, was not to be denied. Minutes later, he found the net again—this time legally—after receiving a precise assist from Mehdi Ghaedi. His composed finish secured a 2-0 victory, sending the home crowd into celebration.

Despite several missed chances in the latter stages, the win moves Iran within touching distance of their seventh World Cup qualification. Under the guidance of their national coach, Team Melli now needs just a draw in their next match against Uzbekistan to officially book their ticket to the finals.

Mohebbi, who was voted Man of the Match, received a yellow card from referee Ko, ruling him out of the crucial fixture against Uzbekistan on the 25th March.

Saeed Ezzatollahi Ruled Out of UAE Clash Due to InjuryTeam Melli’s Injury List

Saeed Ezzatollahi has been ruled out of Iran’s squad for Thursday’s match against the UAE due to injury.

According to Sports Three, the Iranian midfielder missed Team Melli’s final training session on Wednesday at Dastgerdi Stadium, confirming his absence from the upcoming World Cup qualifier.

Iran will also have another injury concern heading into the match. Star forward Mehdi Taremi has sustained a minor injury but is expected to make the squad. Reports suggest that he should be fit enough to feature in the lineup against the UAE.

Ezzatollahi, the fifth most experienced player in the national team, will continue his rehabilitation under the supervision of Team Melli’s medical staff. A final decision on his availability for Iran’s crucial clash against Uzbekistan will be made in the coming days.

Team Melli’s qualifications scenarios

The chances of Team Melli qualification on March 25th after the end of the match against Uzbekistan are quite high. Iran is just about on the threshold of qualification with the two next matches could see Team Melli qualify for the FIFA World Cup for the seventh time with a few two matches to spare.

In here we will review the various scenarios in which Iran can seal its qualification in the next two matches vs. UAE on the 20th and then against Uzbekistan on the 25th and both matches are held at home in Azadi Stadium.

Eight Team Melli Players at Risk of Suspension Ahead of Uzbekistan ClashTeam Melli players under the threat of suspension

Eight key Team Melli players face the risk of suspension for Iran’s crucial match against Uzbekistan on March 25 if they receive yellow cards in Thursday’s game against the UAE.

Iran will host the UAE at Azadi Stadium on the final day of the Iranian calendar year 1403 as part of the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifiers. Head coach Amir Ghalenoei will send his team onto the field under the looming threat of potential suspensions, with eight players carrying yellow cards from previous matches.

The players at risk are Alireza Jahanbakhsh, Hossein Kananizadegan, Milad Mohammadi, Sardar Azmoun, Mehdi Ghayedi, Mohammad Mohebi, Aria Yousefi, and Saeed Ezzatollahi—all just one booking away from missing the showdown with Uzbekistan.

If any of these players receive a yellow card against the UAE, they will be ruled out of the Uzbekistan match. Additionally, should any of them receive a caution against Uzbekistan, they risk suspension for Iran’s final two qualifiers.

Disciplinary issues have historically been a weak spot for Team Melli, and this trend has persisted under Ghalenoei’s tenure. Managing player discipline will be crucial in ensuring Iran fields its strongest squad for the decisive matches ahead.

UAE Faces Crucial Clash Against Iran in World Cup Qualifiers

Thursday’s game between Iran and the UAE at Azadi Stadium marks the 21st meeting between the two neighboring nations at the senior international level. The UAE has managed just one victory, a friendly match win, and has yet to defeat Team Melli in an official competition. This winless record has become a psychological hurdle for the team, adding pressure on head coach Paulo Bento as he prepares his squad for two pivotal matches in the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Apart from their encounter with Group A leaders Iran on March 20 in Tehran, the UAE will face North Korea on March 25 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. With the stakes higher than ever, Bento has unveiled a 27-man squad featuring key reinforcements, including four newly naturalized players: Caio Lucas and Luan Pereira from Sharjah, Jonatas Santos from Al Wasl, and Alaa Al-Din Zuhair from Al Wahda. Their inclusion is expected to inject fresh energy into all areas of the team. The naturalization of Latin American and African players has been a successful strategy in the Persian Gulf nations, with Qatar being a prime example of its effectiveness.

Squad Reinforcements and Key Returns

For the UAE, key players returning to the squad include Sharjah goalkeeper Khalid Tawhid and Shabab Al Ahli striker Sultan Adel, both of whom have recovered from long-term injuries. Additionally, Al Jazira’s Abdullah Ramadan makes his comeback, providing Bento with more options in midfield.

One of the most anticipated additions is Brazilian-born forward Caio Lucas, whose long-awaited call-up could be a game-changer for the UAE’s attacking strategy. The UAE has struggled to convert chances in previous qualifiers, making Lucas’ clinical finishing and creativity crucial. His impressive record this season—20 goals and seven assists in 30 matches for Sharjah—highlights his ability to make a significant impact.

Lucas, who initially joined Al Ain in 2016 before moving to Benfica and later Sharjah, has built a reputation as a versatile forward with a sharp eye for goal. His recent performances in the AFC Champions League and domestic competitions demonstrate his ability to perform under pressure. Speaking to Telecom Asia Sport, Lucas expressed his excitement about representing the UAE:

“This is an opportunity I have long awaited. The UAE has been my home for years, and I want to give back by helping the team in any way I can. I will do everything to make a difference in these crucial matches.”

Jonatas Santos (23), another Brazilian-born talent, joined Al Ain Club in January 2020 and, after several successful seasons, moved to Al Wasl on loan this season, where he has been in excellent form. His performances have made him one of Bento’s key attacking options for the upcoming matches.

Tunisian-Emirati defender Alaa Al-Din Zuhair (25), who joined Al Wahda Club in 2020, has earned a regular starting position. Known for his defensive strength and ability to contribute goals from set-pieces, Zuhair’s inclusion aims to address defensive gaps that have cost the UAE crucial goals in recent matches.

Brazilian-Emirati midfielder Luan Pereira (24) has played for Sharjah Club for five seasons and is thrilled to be part of the national team. His performances this season—31 appearances, nine goals, and nine assists—have cemented his status as a key playmaker for both club and country.

A Must-Win Scenario for the UAE

Currently third in the group with 10 points from six matches, the UAE is in a fierce battle for direct qualification. They trail second-placed Uzbekistan by three points and hold a narrow lead over fourth-placed Qatar, making these upcoming fixtures decisive.

Iran, sitting comfortably at the top with 16 points, presents a formidable challenge. However, the UAE is determined to avenge their 1-0 loss in the first leg and secure a crucial victory to boost their qualification hopes. A win against Iran would not only close the gap but also provide momentum ahead of their showdown with North Korea—a team known for its resilience.

With everything on the line, Paulo Bento’s squad must deliver a performance worthy of their World Cup ambitions. Can the UAE rise to the occasion and stake its claim for a spot at the 2026 FIFA World Cup?

Head2Head

H / A / NMatchesWonDrawLostGoalsGoal Difference
H54104 – 0+4
A971115 – 4+11
N651010 – 1+9
Total20163129 – 5+24

More players invited to Team Melli camp.

Following the latest Persian Gulf League matches, Team Melli selectors have added seven more players to the current 21-man squad in camp.

According to the coaching staff, the newly invited players are as follows:

  • Goalkeepers: Alireza Beiranvand (Tractor), Seyed Hossein Hosseini (Esteghlal)
  • Defenders: Shoja Khalilzadeh (Tractor), Saleh Hardani (Esteghlal), Roozbeh Cheshmi (Esteghlal)
  • Midfielders: Amir Mohammad Razaghnia (Gol Gohar Sirjan)
  • Forwards: Amir Hossein Hosseinzadeh (Tractor)

The newly selected players will join the rest of the squad on Monday as preparations begin for the upcoming double-header against the UAE and Uzbekistan.

Perhaps the most notable inclusion among the new call-ups is 18-year-old Amir Mohammad Razaghnia. The talented midfielder has already made a name for himself at the youth level, having won the MVP award in a tournament held in Belarus. His selection signals a potential shift in head coach Amir Ghalenoei’s approach, showing a greater willingness to incorporate young talent into the national team setup.

However, the continued presence of Shoja Khalilzadeh in the squad suggests that Ghalenoei is not yet ready to part ways with his experienced core. While his selection brings valuable leadership and experience, it also highlights the ongoing balance between youth development and reliance on seasoned veterans within Team Melli.

Daniyal Eiri

Daniyal Eiri and Mohammad Khalifa Earn First National Team Call-Ups

Amir Ghalenoei has announced a 21-man squad for Iran’s upcoming Nowrooz 1404 matches against the UAE and Uzbekistan in the third round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Among the call-ups, two 20-year-old talents—Daniyal Eiri and Mohammad Khalifa—have been invited to the national team camp for the first time.

Daniyal Eiri, a promising young defender, emerged from the Zob Ahan academy and played for the Isfahan-based club in the first half of the season. However, due to military service obligations, he transferred to Malavan Bandar Anzali for the second half of the campaign. His departure from Zob Ahan was controversial, as his strong performances led to public criticism from head coach Mohammad Rabiei and then-CEO Nima Nakisa. Despite their objections, Iri ultimately joined Malavan, where he has since become a key player under head coach Maziar Zare.

Eiri Reflects on His Journey and Team Melli Call-Up

In an interview with Mehr, Eiri shared his thoughts on his journey to the national team and his ambitions moving forward.

“I am very happy. From the start of pre-season training, I gave my all to improve and stay on the path to progress. When I officially heard about my national team invitation, I was overjoyed because I felt like I had achieved part of my goal. But I know that staying in the national team is even more important than being invited.”

He also expressed gratitude to those who have supported his development.

“First, I want to thank Zob Ahan for the opportunities they provided me. I also appreciate Coach Rabiei, who introduced me to professional football in Iran. Due to my circumstances, I moved to Malavan, where Coach Maziar Zare placed his trust in me. His support has played a major role in my journey, and I owe a lot to him.”

Eiri also acknowledged the national team staff for their confidence in him.

“I am grateful to Coach Ghalenoei and the entire coaching staff. It is a great honor to be in the same camp as some of Iran’s greatest footballers. But from today, my focus is on proving myself and earning my place in the squad so I can serve the national team and the people of Iran.”

On Malavan’s Performance and the loss against Persepolis.

Eiri also reflected on Malavan’s recent 2-0 loss to Persepolis.

“It was a tough match. We went in with the mindset of getting a result, and we played bravely. Persepolis is the reigning champion and a strong contender again this season, with high-quality players. If we had taken our chances better, we could have achieved a different outcome. Now, we must turn our attention to the next matches and continue Malavan’s strong performances this season.”

With his first national team call-up, Iri now has the opportunity to showcase his talent on a bigger stage. His determination and rapid development suggest he could play a crucial role in Iran’s future defensive lineup.
It is noted that along with Amin Hezbavi and Arya Yousefi, Iri competes a trio of young talented defenders that is going to taken over the aging and vulnerable Team Melli defensive line.

Iran-Qatar match to be re-located to neutral venue.

According to Mehr news reporter, while it was previously announced that the match between the Iran and Qatar will be held at the Imam Reza Stadium in Mashhad, the Asian Football Confederation ruled, in a letter sent to the FFIRI , that this match should be held in a neutral country.

Ahmad Dunyamali, the Minister of Sports and Youth, said this Wednesday morning on the sidelines of the cabinet meeting: “Given the conditions we had in the last week or two, the AFC decided that this game should be held in a third country.” He continued: “Our proposal was to play the upcoming match against Qatar as a guest instead of as a host, and of course, this matter was subject to the approval of the AFC and the Qatari side.”

The Minister of Sports and Youth emphasized: “There is also a discussion of holding the match in another country, and our first proposal was Uzbekistan, but on the same day of the Iran-Qatar match, Uzbekistan is also hosting the UAE, and it is possible that the Iran-Qatar match will be held in another country, such as the UAE.”

The geopolitical situation seems to dictate the affairs and fears of escalation of hostilities in the Middle East has presented a challenge for the AFC and the host nations.

Ghalenoei and fans expectations

The fans must be less than impressed at Team Melli’s performance so far despite the minimalistic wins. The expectations were high, but the delivery has been underwhelming.

There weren’t many cheers at the end of the Kyrgyzstan game on that truly embarrassing and awful pitch of Fooladshar. The 1-0 win against a Kyrgyz team ranked 82 places lower came with a bit of luck too, as Beiranvand managed a fantastic save towards the end. The pitch conditions were a significant factor, making it difficult for both teams to play their best football. The fans, who are used to seeing their team dominate, were left disappointed by the lackluster performance.

Then came the UAE. Team Melli’s win in Al-Ain was not a vintage performance by any stretch of the imagination. However, there were positives and progress. Ghalenoei is slowly realizing that his team has many shortfalls and admitted that this was a lucky escape for his team with the late penalty against Hardani overruled by VAR. Adding to that were the many misses by the profligate Team Melli strikers, which highlighted the need for better finishing and composure in front of goal.

Two games have been played in the third – and decisive – round of FIFA World Cup qualification. So far, it has confirmed the feeling that while Team Melli relies on their legionnaires playing in professional leagues to deliver in the big moments, a team like Japan is a well-oiled winning machine. Ruthless, clinical, and disciplined, Japan hardly relies on one or two individuals. Their team cohesion and tactical discipline are exemplary, setting a benchmark for other Asian teams.

Ghalenoei and Ghoddos on touchline
Soccer Football – AFC Asian Cup – Quarter-Final – Iran v Japan – Education City Stadium, Al Rayyan, Qatar – February 3, 2024 Iran coach Amir Ghalenoei REUTERS/Thaier Al-Sudani

While Iran has the bragging rights for arguably having the two most lethal forwards of Asia in Azmoun and Taremi, who amassed more than 100 goals between them, regrettably, they were both guilty of not only failing to deliver but also raising questions about their attitudes and commitment. Their performances have been inconsistent, and their body language on the pitch has sometimes suggested a lack of motivation.

This is where Ghalenoei can make a huge difference. Granted that he will never be a Carlos Queiroz, and the culture of Iranians is different than that of Portuguese or European. Ghalenoei, for example, keeps distributing thanks to everybody and anything that moves between earth and sky. Queiroz was aggressive, demanding, and always critical of the same. Two extremes, mind you, that need to be balanced by Ghalenoei. No one is interested in his sermons of thanks and appreciation; the fans expect results and a beautiful game. If players are not delivering, especially the likes of Azmoun, Taremi, Jahanbakhsh, Ghoddos, and Ezatollahi, then the bench is their place.

Of course, it is easier said than done. The Iranian domestic league is simply not producing quality players en masse. The poor league standard, on top of atrocious playing fields and extremely amateurish management and administration, are some of the factors for poor player production. One must sympathize with Ghalenoei in this sense as he can only play with what is available to him, unlike other countries who have no issues with naturalizing the hundreds of available Brazilian and European players for hire, most of whom are second or third-rate players.

The level of expectation of the Iranian fans is high, and they are not to be blamed. Few accept ridicule, and most of the fans understand and appreciate good football when they watch one. Iran has a footballing pedigree. It is ranked among the top 20 in the world. The sport is the most popular in a land where wrestling, martial arts, and weightlifting are the real sports that bring glory to the nation. So yes, the expectations are high, tolerances low, and the patience of fans is wishful thinking.

The hope is with Ghalenoei and his coaching staff to address the various shortcomings with less than a month left for a crucial tie with the Uzbek team. A Team Melli at its near best can beat Uzbekistan at Tashkent. However, what Team Melli will turn up on October 10th? Anything like the two that played against Kyrgyzstan and UAE, then we are in trouble.

The upcoming matches will be a true test of Ghalenoei’s ability to inspire and organize his team under pressure.