Look: UAE defeat South Korea to advance to brink of Qatar 2022 World Cup qualification

The UAE recorded a famous 1-0 win over South Korea on Tuesday to advance to a Qatar 2022 World Cup qualifying playoff against Australia in June.

The winner of that clash will progress to a winner-takes-all final against a team from South America for a ticket to Qatar.

Harib Abdalla scored in the second half for UAE, who are searching for their second World Cup appearance after their debut at Italia 90.

Heading into the final round of matches, Iran, South Korea, Japan and Saudi Arabia had already clinched the automatic qualification spots.

South Korea, preparing for their 11th appearance, dominated possession but could not find the target despite hitting the woodwork twice and taking 16 corners.

Earlier, Iran defeated Lebanon 2-0 to finish top of Group A ahead of South Korea.

Japan and Vietnam drew 1-1 at Saitama Stadium. Japan reached their seventh straight World Cup by topping Group B with Saudi Arabia in second place.

Abdalla, making his first start for the UAE full national senior side - stepping in for suspended goal machine Ali Mabkhout - kept the coolest head on the pitch when it mattered most as he broke free and slotted past Jo Hyeon-Woo in the South Korea goal.

“I am so happy,” Abdalla said. “I want to thank the players, the coach, the administration, and also the fans for the way they supported our team. We deserve these three points and a place in the play-off."

UAE manager Rodolfo Arruabarrena added: “Anyone who knows me from my time at Al Wasl or Shahab Al Ahli knows I always give chances to young players. If they are ready, they have to participate. I don’t care about the age of the player. The main thing for me is the desire, effort and performance of the player.”