The United Arab Emirates and Iraq played out a hard-fought 1-1 draw in the first leg of their FIFA World Cup 2026 AFC qualifying playoff at the Mohamed Bin Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. The result leaves the tie finely poised ahead of the return leg in Basra.

Iraq struck first, with striker Ali Al-Hamadi giving the visitors the lead just 10 minutes into the match. However, the UAE responded swiftly. Luanzinho leveled the score in the 18th minute, connecting with an Abdalla Ramadan cross to head the ball into the net.

The remainder of the match was an intense affair, with both teams creating opportunities to find a winner. The UAE appeared to have secured a late victory, but their goal was disallowed for a clear offside, ensuring the contest ended in a stalemate.