The UAE’s hopes of qualifying for the 2018 World Cup were given a boost on Thursday evening when Australia were held to a 1-1 draw in Iraq.
In a tightly-contested Group B, where the top two gain automatic entry to next year’s World Cup in Russia, a single point separate the UAE in fourth and Australia in second with Japan sitting in third.
The UAE and Japan face each other in Thursday’s later game (kick-off 7.30pm) at Al Ain’s Hazza bin Zayed Stadium, and should the hosts do the double over their Japanese visitors, it will move Mahdi Ali’s men into the second place, two points clear of Australia and Japan.
Australia opened the door to the UAE after Ahmed Yasin’s 76th minute equaliser cancelled out Mathew Leckie’s first half opener. Australia have now been held to successive draws away from home following the 2-2 draw in Thailand in November.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia ensured their place at the top of the standings with a comfortable 3-0 win in Bangkok. Mohammad Al Sahlawi scored the opening goal in the 25th minute before an own goal by Tanaboon Kesarat doubled Saudi Arabia’s lead six minutes from time. Salman Al Muwashar completed the rout in the second minute of injury time.
Saudi Arabia sit on 13 points after six games, although Japan can move level with victory against the UAE.
* The National staff
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