| UAE VS Iraq | |
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MATCH INFO |
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MATCH :
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UAE VS Iraq
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COMPETITION :
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FIFA World Cup Qualifiers
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| DATE: |
18-11-2025
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TIME:
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09.30 PM IST
08.00 PM UAE
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STADIUM
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Basra International Stadium |
UAE vs Iraq: Key Absences and Players to Watch
The UAE’s hopes of cruising through this stage of World Cup qualifying have taken a major hit following confirmation that star playmaker Fabio De Lima will miss this set of fixtures after sustaining an injury during club duty.
De Lima’s absence is a significant blow — the midfielder was instrumental in the third round of qualifying, netting four goals against Qatar alone.
There are also concerns over Yahya Al Ghassani and Sultan Adil, who are both included in the squad but remain fitness doubts ahead of Thursday’s clash. The pair face a race against time to prove their readiness.
In De Lima’s absence, much of the creative responsibility will fall on Ali Saleh, who has been in fine form with four assists and three goals across 12 qualifiers so far.
For Iraq, star forward Ayman Hussein is fit and available, though he may start on the bench as he continues his recovery. Hussein has been a standout performer in this campaign, scoring eight goals, while Ali Jasim, with four goal involvements, will be expected to provide crucial support in attack.