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 / N | Matches | Won | Draw | Lost | Goals | Goal Difference |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| H | 5 | 4 | 1 | 0 | 4 – 0 | +4 |
| A | 9 | 7 | 1 | 1 | 15 – 4 | +11 |
| N | 6 | 5 | 1 | 0 | 10 – 1 | +9 |
| Total | 20 | 16 | 3 | 1 | 29 – 5 | +24 |