Calmness is required… and qualification is written in the second leg

The former national team captain, Ismail Matar, advised the UAE national team players of the need to remain calm and not rush during the confrontation with Iraq, which will be held this evening in the first leg of the final Asian qualifying stage for the 2026 World Cup.

Matar said in television statements before the match: “The result will not determine qualification from the first leg, and whatever the result of tonight’s confrontation, the players must realize that qualification will be determined in the return match.”

He added: “We should be careful with the Iraqi team, whose players are characterized by speed and quick transitions from defense to attack. In matches of this type, mistakes are prohibited, and the most important thing is not to concede any goal at any time during the match.

Matar pointed out that coach Cosmin Olario chose a good squad characterized by a good balance between the lines, and it is necessary for each player to give his utmost effort and dedication in order for us to achieve the result we aspire to.