ABU DHABI — Fabio Lima delivered a sensational performance, scoring four goals to lead the UAE to a resounding 5-0 victory over Qatar at Al Nahyan Stadium on Tuesday.
The Brazil-born striker’s stunning display not only boosted the UAE’s hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup but also highlighted the team’s growing momentum in the Asian World Cup Qualifiers.
Lima, who has been a key figure in the UAE’s attacking lineup, was in irresistible form as he netted a first-half hat trick.
His relentless attacking pressure left the Qatari defense scrambling, and by the 56th minute, he had added a fourth, putting the game well beyond Qatar’s reach.
Lima’s clinical finishing and sharp positioning were evident throughout the match, and his four-goal performance was a testament to his prowess in front of goal.
Yahya Al Ghassani capped off a fine performance for the home team, scoring the fifth goal in the 73rd minute, further cementing the UAE’s dominance on the night.
The victory marked the UAE’s second consecutive win following their 3-0 triumph over Kyrgyzstan on November 14, further solidifying their position in the Group A standings.
With 10 points from six matches, the UAE remain in third place in Group A, just behind Iran (16 points) and Uzbekistan (13 points).
The top two teams from Group A will secure automatic spots in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as Asia is allotted eight direct berths for the expanded 48-team tournament.
This places the UAE in a promising position, though they still have several tough challenges ahead to secure their qualification.
The UAE’s path to qualification includes six teams in Group A: Qatar, Iran, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and North Korea. The group is highly competitive, and with only two automatic spots available, every point is crucial.
The UAE will need to maintain their winning form if they are to keep up with Iran and Uzbekistan, who currently occupy the top two spots in the group.
The competition format for the Asian World Cup Qualifiers has been expanded for the 2026 tournament, with three groups of six teams each in the third round.
The top two teams from each group will earn direct entry into the World Cup, while the third and fourth-placed teams will enter a fourth round of qualification.
From there, the winners of two groups will secure the final automatic slots, while the runners-up will enter a playoff for a chance at the inter-confederation playoffs.
Despite a strong start in the qualifiers, the UAE have not qualified for the World Cup since their debut appearance in 1990.
This year’s qualifiers have sparked renewed hope among fans and players alike, and the team’s recent form has only added to the belief that they can secure a place in the 2026 tournament.
With Lima’s outstanding performance and the support of a well-balanced squad, the UAE’s World Cup dreams are well within reach as the qualifiers progress.