The final whistle at Jassim bin Hamad Stadium brought a sudden end to the UAE’s direct qualification hopes for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as a 2-1 defeat to Qatar left fans across the Emirates heartbroken. Despite the result, the night was marked by an unprecedented display of national unity, with thousands gathering in public spaces to support their team.
A Nation United in Support
From packed malls to dedicated cinema screenings, the country came together in a remarkable show of support for the national team, known as the Whites. Cinema City and VOX Cinemas, alongside cafes, parks and restaurants, hosted public viewings that drew crowds of all ages. Families, students, and elders who fondly remember the UAE’s 1990 World Cup appearance sat side-by-side, united in a shared dream.
“Tonight showed what football means to us and how we rally behind the whites,” fan Hamad Alshehhi told Khaleej Times. “Seeing our grandparents sitting with us and shouting, coming from the office, my younger brothers coming straight from school, everyone united behind our team. That spirit will not disappear with this sad result.” The communal atmosphere was a powerful reminder of how the country comes together, not unlike the city-wide events that mark occasions like Emirati Women’s Day.
Playoff Hopes Remain Alive
Although Qatar secured victory with goals from Boualem Khoukhi and Ró-Ró before Sultan Adil Alamiri scored a late consolation for the UAE, supporters insisted the journey is not over. The young team still has a chance to reach the World Cup, although the path through the playoffs is now more difficult.
“The 35-year wait continues, but the wait isn’t over, it’s just longer,” said Yousef AlNaqbi. “Our team is young and talented. Sultan’s goal proved that we have the quality. We have another chance through the playoffs, and our team will be stronger inshallah for this experience.”
Scrutiny Over Officiating
The match was not without controversy, as many fans took to social media to voice their frustration with several officiating decisions during the 105-minute contest. Supporters pointed to what they saw as inconsistent foul calls, an early corner not awarded to the UAE, and minimal stoppage time despite lengthy delays. These public gatherings for the match, much like popular festivals such as the Taste of Abu Dhabi, became forums for passionate debate.
“The referees allowed for this to happen, an obvious way to waste time and with multiple fouls and dives that were not accounted for,” one user posted on X. Another, Abdalla Alkaddeed Almehrzi, noted that while “‘arbitration justice’ was absent,” he still extended congratulations to Qatar, adding, “The dream of the homeland has not ended, and every delay has some good in it.”
As thousands left the screenings and switched off their televisions, the prevailing mood was one of disappointment mixed with pride. While the direct route to the World Cup is closed, the belief in the team’s talent and the conviction that the 35-year wait will eventually end remains strong. As Yousef AlNaqbi concluded, “The dream isn’t over. It’s just taking the long road home.”
