In a crucial AFC World Cup Qualifier clash on Thursday night, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will take on North Korea at Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium. Both teams are vying to secure a top-two spot in Group A of the third round of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup.
The UAE, currently third in the group, will look to build on their solid start, having secured three points from their first two games. Meanwhile, North Korea remains winless and will be eager to claim their first victory in this round.
UAE’s Recent Form
Coached by Paulo Bento, the UAE has faced two formidable opponents in their opening matches: Qatar and Iran, both participants in the 2022 World Cup. Despite a narrow defeat to Iran, the UAE pulled off an impressive 3-1 win against Qatar, with goals from Harib Abdalla Suhail, Khaled Aldhanhani, and Ali Saleh. With three points, the UAE sits just behind Uzbekistan and Iran, who have made perfect starts to their campaigns.
The UAE is targeting their second-ever World Cup appearance, having last qualified in 1990. With a competitive group and a home game advantage, they will be confident of making a strong push for qualification.
North Korea’s Struggles
North Korea, coached by Sin Yong-nam, is determined to return to the World Cup stage for the first time since 2010. However, their qualification journey has been rocky so far, with no wins in two matches. After a heavy 2-0 defeat to Uzbekistan, they salvaged a 1-1 draw against Qatar, with a late goal from Kuk-Chol Kang II, despite being reduced to 10 men early in the game.
North Korea’s squad largely comprises domestic league players, but a few, such as forward Kwang-Song Han, have experience in European football. If they are to compete for a top-two finish in the group, North Korea must start picking up points soon, and Thursday’s match could be a turning point.
Team News
For the UAE, defensive pairing Khalifa Al Hammadi and Kouame Autonne are expected to start again, despite conceding against Iran. Coach Bento may shuffle the attack, with Ali Saleh and Fabio Lima pushing for a starting spot. Yahya Al Ghassani, who struggled against Iran, could make way in the lineup.
North Korea will be without defender Kuk-Chol Jang due to suspension following his red card against Qatar. Kum-Song Jong is expected to step in, partnering Yu-Song Kim at center-back.
Predicted Lineups
UAE:
Eisa; Aldhanhani, Al Hammadi, Autonne, Idrees; Nader, Suhail, Hamad, Al Zaabi, Saleh; Caio
North Korea:
Ju-Hyok; Ok-Chol, Kum-Song, Yu-Song, Pom-Hyok; Chung-Song, Kuk-Bom, Kuk-Chol K, Il-Song; Hwang-Song, Jo-Guk
Prediction
With home advantage and a solid start to their qualifying campaign, the UAE will be confident of securing three points. North Korea, despite their resilience, has struggled away from home, and they may find it difficult to contain the UAE’s attack.
Prediction: UAE 2-0 North Korea
The UAE is expected to dominate possession and capitalize on their opportunities, while North Korea may struggle to pose a consistent threat in attack. This match is crucial for both teams’ qualification hopes, but the UAE enters as the favorite.
