UAE Soccer Team's Uncertain Path After Bento's Dismissal

Paulo Bento has been dismissed as head coach of the UAE soccer team following a win against North Korea. Despite the victory, UAE's qualification for the 2026 World Cup remains doubtful. Bento's departure comes as UAE attempts to catch up with Uzbekistan in Group A standings with two matches left.

In a surprising move, Paulo Bento has been relieved of his duties as the head coach of the United Arab Emirates. This decision followed a crucial 2-1 victory against North Korea, a win that keeps UAE's slim hopes of automatic qualification for the 2026 World Cup alive.

The last-minute victory places UAE four points behind Uzbekistan in Group A, with two fixtures remaining. Only the top two teams from each group will secure an automatic spot in the tournament, slated to be held across the United States, Canada, and Mexico next year.

Appointed in July 2023, Bento previously guided South Korea to the knockout stages of the 2022 World Cup. The UAE's next challenge is a pivotal match against Uzbekistan at home on June 5.

(With inputs from agencies.)