The National’s Sport cover for the Friday, October 9 issue, featuring the UAE national team as they were defeated 2-1 by Saudi Arabia in Riyahd in 2018 World Cup qualifying.
Writing about the result, John McAuley notes:
“Omar Abdulrahman, from hero to hopeless in a flash.
“The UAE’s golden boy, the standout star in its so-called golden generation, lost a little sheen last night in Jeddah, when he gave away a late penalty that granted Saudi Arabia a vital victory in a crucial 2018 World Cup qualifier.
“Three points gained, the Saudis’ lead over second-placed UAE is stretched to five with four Group A fixtures remaining. Mahdi Ali’s men require a substantial shift to turn this around, to somehow usurp Saudi Arabia and ensure automatic progression to the next stage.
“Seven successive losses, dating back seven years. This one will sting just as much as any that have gone before.
“It was secured in the 89th minute, when Abdulrahman’s ill-advised lunge caused Nawaf Al Abed to hit the floor in the UAE penalty area.
“Mohammed Al Sahlawi, who had earlier drawn Saudi Arabia level, made no mistake from the spot.
“In clinching it for the collective, he took his individual tally to eight goals in four qualifiers. Looking on, Abdulrahman could only lift his jersey over his face.
“In truth, the UAE were nowhere near their best, sloppy in possession and sluggish in closing down opponents. But they seemed set to escape with a draw, a precious point to keep control of their destiny on the road to Russia 2018.
“Their World Cup dream is still on, although it will take a mighty effort from all those concerned.
“Given everything Abdulrahman has given the national team, it is difficult to lament his latest contribution too long. But a rush of blood has left the UAE in a tricky spot, indeed.”
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