Things got heated during the UAE vs Qatar World Cup qualifier, and FIFA isn’t letting it slide.
Following the fiery 2026 World Cup qualifier on October 14, FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee has announced a series of suspensions and fines targeting officials and players from both sides.
Matar Obaid Saeed Mesfer Al Dhaheri, supervisor of the UAE national team, has been hit with a 16-match suspension and a 10,000 Swiss franc fine (Dh45,500) after being found guilty of unsporting behaviour and physical assault against the match referee.
Two-match ban for Qatar
Over on the Qatari side, Tarek Salman has received a two-match ban and a 5,000 Swiss franc fine (Dh22,750) for dangerous play during the same match.
The match itself ended in a 2–1 win for Qatar, securing their qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while the UAE continues its campaign with crucial playoff matches against Iraq to keep their World Cup dream alive.
Breach of disciplinary code
In a separate decision, FIFA fined the Saudi Arabian Football Federation 11,500 Swiss francs for breaches of its disciplinary code after fans lit fireworks during Saudi Arabia’s 0–0 draw with Iraq, a result that booked Saudi Arabia’s place in the tournament.
For context, the UAE Football Association has also been enforcing stricter discipline internally. Earlier this year, it suspended players Khalid Al Dhanhani and Sultan Adel for five matches each and fined them Dh500,000 for misconduct during a national team camp.
Together, these measures underline the zero-tolerance stance of FIFA and the UAE FA when it comes to professionalism and player conduct during critical World Cup qualifying stages.
Source: KT/GN