DOHA — The United Arab Emirates edged past Oman 2-1 in the fourth round of Asian qualifying for the 2026 World Cup on Saturday and now needs a draw against host Qatar on Tuesday to reach the finals for the first time since 1990.

The loss ended Oman’s chances of winning the three-team Group A and securing automatic qualification for a first World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. But the team can still finish second and advance to the fifth round.

Oman, who drew 0-0 with Qatar on Wednesday, took the lead in the 12th minute when an Amjad Al Harthi shot was deflected in by defender Kouame Autonne at the Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium in Doha.

After holding on for most of the match, Oman’s defense was finally opened up in the 76th minute when Marcus Meloni head

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