UAE coach Cosmin Olaroiu finds hope after missing World Cup ticket

Dubai: Cosmin Olaroiu cut a composed yet deeply disappointed figure as the UAE saw their hopes of automatic qualification for the 2026 Fifa World Cup slip away on home soil. A goalless draw against Uzbekistan on Thursday in Abu Dhabi sealed a place at the tournament for the visitors — their first ever — while the Emiratis were left to contemplate the tougher playoff path.

Needing a win to guarantee a top-two finish in Group A, the UAE created the better chances and largely controlled the game. But they could not find a way past goalkeeper Utkir Yusupov, whose saves preserved the draw and sparked celebrations among the Uzbek players and travelling supporters.

“We are very disappointed with the draw and the loss of the opportunity to qualify directly for the World Cup,” said Romanian Olaroiu. “We were the closest to winning, but we had several opportunities that we didn’t capitalise on.

“We controlled the game and had chances, but unfortunately, we didn’t score. I’m not saying our performance was perfect, but we were good,” he added. “We’ve noticed that there are many things we can improve on to be even better, and that’s a positive point.”

The result ensured Uzbekistan’s top-two finish in Group A alongside Iran, and a place in the expanded 48-team World Cup to be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

For Olaroiu, who took over the UAE job a month ago, it was a tough blow in his first big test — but one that he believes the team can build from. “We are on the right path,” he said. “Now we have to be stronger and more focused in the playoffs.”

Uzbekistan coach Timur Kapadze, meanwhile, was understandably emotional as he dedicated the historic achievement to the nation.

“We have come a long way and achieved an important result,” said Kapadze. “We congratulate our entire people and our President. This victory belongs to all of us.”

A dramatic night across Asia saw China’s hopes of a second-ever World Cup appearance officially ended after a 1-0 loss to Indonesia. A first-half penalty from Ole Romeny in Jakarta proved decisive, leaving China bottom of a group that includes Japan, Australia, and Saudi Arabia.

“This team has been fighting for this goal for over 20 years… but we didn’t succeed,” admitted China coach Branko Ivankovic. “As head coach, I definitely bear significant responsibility.”

Elsewhere, Jordan joined Uzbekistan in qualifying for the first time, with a hat-trick from Ali Olwan sealing a 3-0 win over Oman. South Korea booked their 11th straight World Cup appearance with a 2-0 victory in Iraq, while Australia edged Japan 1-0 thanks to a last-minute strike from Aziz Behich in Perth.