UAE keep World Cup hopes alive

The United Arab Emirates registered their first victory over Qatar in seven years to keep their hopes alive in Group B in the Asian World Cup football qualifiers on Thursday.

Propelled by a splendid performance by debutants Faisal Khalil and Basheer Saeed, the UAE won 2-1 at Doha and moved to second place in Group B with ten points from seven matches.

Following them are Qatar, with nine, Uzbekistan, on seven, and Oman, on two points.

China heads the group with 13 points from six matches.

The UAE, which went down to Qatar 0-2 in their home match, exacted sweet revenge. It was Qatar who dominated the match but failed to convert numerous chances even as the UAE converted the few that came their way, making it a memorable day for Tini Ruijs of Holland, the caretaker coach of the UAE. Their last victory against Qatar was in the Gulf Cup in 1994.

The UAE will play their last match on October 19 in Abu Dhabi, against Oman, while Qatar face strong contenders China away in Shenyang next week. Uzbekistan play Oman in Muscat next week before hosting China in Tashkent on October 19.

The runners-up of the group will meet their counterparts from Group A and the winner of the two matches play-off will meet Ireland.