Bento looking to extend winning start as UAE kick off 2026 World Cup qualifiers

15.11.2023 - 09:47 arabnews.com

DUBAI: Another ticket to the World Cup after more than three decades away, or another false dawn? That is the burning question which hangs over Paulo Bento’s UAE side ahead of Thursday’s competitive debut versus Nepal, when qualifying kicks off.

The ex-Portugal and South Korea tactician’s start has been exemplary. It has included a trio of friendly victories, opening with September’s 4-1 bow against Keylor Navas’ Costa Rica.

The UAE’s stale squad appears rejuvenated by fresh faces, and a renewed sense of purpose has radiated out to the country’s often jaded fanbase.

How Saudi Arabia’s Roberto Mancini and Bento’s Portuguese compatriot Carlos Queiroz with Qatar must envy this efficacious introduction.

Football Sexual assault Court cup qualifiers as Lionel Messi Roberto Mancini Luis Suarez Emma Hayes Dani Alves Carlos Queiroz Paulo Bento Rodolfo Arruabarrena Argentina Qatar Portugal Brazil Usa Australia Uae Saudi Arabia county Hayes Uruguay South Korea Costa Rica Nepal Salem

RIYADH: The journey toward qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is underway, with Asia’s big guns kick-starting their campaigns over the past week.

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