Friday’s cover: UAE remain grounded after famous 2-1 win over Japan in 2018 World Cup qualifier

Mohanad Saleh makes the cover of The National Sport on Friday, September 2, 2016 after the UAE defender helped his country to a shock 2-1 victory over Japan in a 2018 World Cup qualifier in Saitama on Thursday.

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Mohanad Saleh makes the cover of The National Sport on Friday, September 2, 2016 after the UAE defender helped his country to a shock 2-1 victory over Japan in a 2018 World Cup qualifier in Saitama on Thursday.

Our reporter John McAuley was at the stadium to witness the famous victory, describing Salem and fellow centre-back Ismail Ahmed's performance as "titanic" in keeping Japan from scoring an equaliser, especially in the final half-hour.

The victory gives Mahdi Ali’s side the perfect start to the third round of qualifying for Russia 2018 the perfect start. They next face Australia in Group B in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday.

We have plenty of coverage, including a match report, picture gallery and things we learnt from the match. You can check it all out right here.

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