AFC U17 Asian Cup
Hazaa Faisal’s last-gasp header cancelled out Hoang Trong Duy Khang’s first half opener before the Emiratis had to endure an agonising wait to confirm their place in the knockout stage after Japan topped Group B despite losing 3-2 to Australia in their match.
The result meant Japan, UAE and Australia all finished on four points – with the West Asian side going through ahead of Australia on the head to head criteria.
#AFCU17 | Group B: Vietnam 1-1 UAE
“We knew in our hearts that we would qualify, and we were praying for the good news after the match. We made history by reaching the World Cup. It’s a great opportunity for us,” said Adel.
As soon as news broke that UAE had qualified to the FIFA U-17 World Cup Qatar 2025, the team’s dressing room erupted with joy, with the players and coaching staff later returning to the pitch in celebration.
UAE, who will face Group A winners Uzbekistan in Sunday’s quarter-final, also qualified for the FIFA U-17 World Cup for the first time since 2013.
Head coach Majed Salem was ecstatic to guide his team to the knockout stage, a task made arduous on the back of the 4-1 opening defeat against Japan.
“We achieved our goal of reaching the World Cup. We played two tough matches against Japan and Australia, which affected the players physically,” said Salem.
“We tried to conserve some energy in the first half against Vietnam, but once our opponent’s scored, we needed to work hard to get the equaliser.”
Vietnam head coach Cristiano Roland was proud of his players’ efforts, who exited the tournament without a loss.
“My players deserve more, but this is football,” said Roland.
“They fought till the end for Vietnam, and gave everything until the final whistle. I want them to know they have great futures for their careers.”
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