Sultan Adel Earns 91% Public Trust to Lead National Team Offense

UAE football fans have spoken loud and clear about who they want leading their national team's attack in the crucial World Cup qualifying matches against Iraq next month. In an overwhelming show of support, over 91% of respondents in a recent poll backed striker Sultan Adel to start in the two-leg playoff that could determine the UAE's path to the 2026 World Cup.

The stakes couldn't be higher for these November matches. The UAE will host the first leg at Mohammed bin Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi on November 13, with the return fixture scheduled for Basra International Stadium on November 18. The winner advances to the intercontinental playoff, bringing them one step closer to the World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The poll results reveal just how much faith UAE supporters have in Sultan Adel's abilities. Out of 592 participants, 541 voted for him to start, representing a near-consensus at 91.3%. Only 51 voters felt it wasn't yet time for him to lead the attack.

This confidence isn't misplaced. Sultan Adel has consistently made an impact when given the chance, even in limited playing time. His most recent example came in the playoff match against Qatar, where he scored the UAE's only goal in just 23 minutes on the pitch. Though the team lost 2-1, his contribution showed exactly why fans want to see more of him.

The striker's international record backs up the public support. In 15 appearances for the national team, he's found the net eight times. That's an impressive conversion rate that highlights his clinical finishing and ability to make the most of his opportunities. For a player who often comes off the bench, these numbers suggest he could be even more dangerous with regular starts.

Sultan Adel brings qualities that UAE fans clearly value. His intelligent movement in the penalty area, sharp finishing instinct, and fighting spirit in big matches set him apart from other domestic strikers. He's the type of player who creates space for teammates while also being capable of producing individual moments of brilliance when games are tight.

Recent health issues kept him out of some matches, but his return to Al Ahli Youth's squad has reminded everyone what he offers. His direct attacking style and ability to find solutions in difficult situations make him exactly the kind of player needed in high-pressure World Cup qualifiers.

Fan comments in the poll reflected this sentiment. One supporter noted his exceptional performance and sporting spirit, saying he deserves to lead the national attack with pride. Another described him as the UAE's most promising striker who just needs a real opportunity to show his class.

The praise went further, with fans highlighting his courage in taking on defenders and his fearless approach to advancing play. Several pointed out that he makes a difference every time he enters a match, whether he scores or not, thanks to his unique fighting spirit.

Some supporters went as far as calling him a "world-class finisher" and "the best current Emirati striker." Many suggested he should start alongside Ali Saleh and Hareb Abdullah in the front line, forming what they see as the UAE's strongest attacking combination.

This level of public backing creates both opportunity and pressure. For Sultan Adel, it's validation of his abilities and a boost to his confidence heading into potentially career-defining matches. For the national team coaching staff, it's a clear message about public expectations and the trust fans have in this particular player.

The timing of this support is significant. With World Cup qualification hanging in the balance, UAE fans aren't just expressing preference - they're making a statement about who they believe gives their team the best chance of success. In football, that kind of unified public backing can be a powerful force, both for the player receiving it and the team as a whole.