Trending 
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) edged closer to a second World Cup appearance with a 2-1 comeback victory against Oman in Doha on Saturday.
Late goals from Marcus Meloni and Caio Lucas secured the win for the Emiratis at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium.
Oman opened the scoring in the 12th minute when Amjad Al Harthi fired home from Majed Hassan’s cross, which took a deflection off Kouadio Kouame before finding the net.
The UAE responded deep into the second half, with substitute Ali Saleh delivering a precise cross for Meloni to head past goalkeeper Ibrahim Al Mukhaini. Shortly afterwards, Caio Lucas scored from another cross, putting the hosts ahead.
The victory lifts the UAE to the top of Group A ahead of the final round of matches on Tuesday.
A win against Qatar would secure their first World Cup appearance in more than three decades.
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia remains in pole position to qualify from Group B, with each group winner earning a place at next year’s tournament.
