Sharjah Goalkeeper Adel Al Hosani Called Up to National Team Training Camp

UAE goalkeeper Adel Al-Housani has been called up to the national team squad as they prepare for crucial World Cup qualifying matches against Iraq on November 13 and 18. The Sharjah FC keeper joins the team's training camp in Abu Dhabi for what could be make-or-break games in their quest to reach the 2026 World Cup.

The UAE finds itself in a tight spot in Asian qualifying. These two matches against Iraq represent their final chance to secure a spot in the intercontinental playoff round, which offers one last route to the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Al-Housani's call-up comes at a critical moment. The goalkeeper has been performing well for Sharjah FC in domestic competition, and his inclusion suggests the coaching staff wants all options available for these decisive fixtures.

Here's what makes these matches so important: the UAE needs positive results to keep their World Cup dreams alive. The expanded 2026 tournament will feature 48 teams instead of 32, but that doesn't make qualification any easier for Asian nations still fighting for limited spots.

The team is currently training in Abu Dhabi, working on tactics and team chemistry before facing Iraq twice in quick succession. Playing the same opponent twice within five days creates unique strategic challenges - teams must adapt quickly after the first meeting.

For UAE football fans, these November matches carry enormous weight. The country hasn't qualified for a World Cup since 1990, and missing out on 2026 would extend that drought to nearly four decades.

The intercontinental playoff represents a final lifeline for teams that fall just short in regional qualifying. But getting there requires navigating these upcoming Iraq fixtures successfully.

Sharjah FC announced Al-Housani's selection on their official social media, highlighting the pride clubs feel when their players earn national team recognition. The goalkeeper will hope to make an impact during what could be the most important matches of his international career.