Doha, October 14 (QNA) - Qatar have secured their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, following a 2-1 victory over the United Arab Emirates.

The decisive match took place Tuesday at the Jassim bin Hamad Stadium in the final round of Group A in the fourth (playoff) stage of the Asian qualifiers.

The win marks a significant achievement for Qatar as they advance to the global tournament for the upcoming edition of the World Cup.

Goals from Boualem Khoukhi (48') and Pedro Miguel (74') sealed the win for Al Annabi, with Sultan Adil pulling one back for the UAE deep into stoppage time (90+7').

Qatar finished top of Group A with four points, having drawn their first match with Oman.

The UAE, who beat Oman in their opening fixture, ended second with three points and will now face the second-placed team from Group B — which includes Saudi Arabia, Iraq, and Indonesia — for a spot in the intercontinental playoff. Oman exited the competition with one point.

Qatar dominated early chances, with strong attacking play from Akram Afif and Edmilson Junior, but the first half ended goalless. Khoukhi broke the deadlock early in the second half with a powerful header, before Pedro added a second from another Afif assist.

Despite a late red card for Tarek Salman (88') and a last-minute UAE goal, Qatar held firm to confirm their qualification for the expanded World Cup in the US, Canada, and Mexico. (QNA)