“We have come a long way and achieved an important result,” said Kapadze. “We congratulate our entire people and our President. This victory belongs to all of us. 

“Yesterday and today, the phone calls have not stopped. Everyone said they would support us and pray for us, the wishes for victory were a great inspiration for us."

“My players showed determination in every game, they did their best, and that is why we achieved the result," added Kapadze, who replaced Srecko Katanec as head coach in January.

The stalemate meant UAE’s hopes of a second appearance at the FIFA World Cup will have to be realised through the playoffs, where an additional two tickets are at stake, with newly installed head coach Cosmin Olaroiu admitting he had mixed feelings.

"We are very disappointed with the draw and the loss of the opportunity to qualify directly for the World Cup,” said Olaroiu. “We were the closest to winning, but we had several opportunities that we didn't capitalise on.

"We controlled the game and had chances, but unfortunately, we didn't score. I'm not saying our performance was perfect, but we were good. We've noticed that there are many things we can improve on to be even better, and that's a positive point.”

Tuesday’s fixtures will see Uzbekistan host Qatar while UAE will face Kyrgyz Republic in Bishkek.