For the first time in their history, United Arab Emirates walked onto the World Cup stage. Carlos Alberto Parreira led the squad into the unknown.
| Team | MP | W | D | L | GF | GA | GD | Pts | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | 10 | 3 | 7 | 7 |
| 2 |
|
3 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 6 | 5 | 1 | 6 |
| 3 |
|
3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 4 |
| 4 |
|
3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 2 | 11 | -9 | 0 |
It was a tournament to forget for United Arab Emirates, who left without a single victory to their name. Goals proved hard to come by, with just 2 in 3 matches, and their lack of firepower ultimately told.
United Arab Emirates found the group stage unforgiving, unable to pick up a single victory against their opponents. Their campaign featured a 0-2 defeat against Colombia, a heavy 1-5 defeat to West Germany, and a heavy 1-4 defeat to Yugoslavia. The World Cup dream ended earlier than hoped, with United Arab Emirates bowing out in the first round.
3lost
2scored11conceded
Lost all 3 matches conceded 11 goals in 3 matches.
Khalid Ismaïl led United Arab Emirates's attack with 1 goal at the 1990 World Cup. Shared the top-scorer honours with Jumaa, both with 1.
7yellow1red
2.7per match
Ghanim sent off vs Yugoslavia Hussain booked twice.
The tactical mind behind United Arab Emirates's 1990 campaign. Guided United Arab Emirates to their first World Cup managed 2 nations at World Cups.
The UAE's attacking strategy seemed to be focused on individual brilliance rather than cohesive teamwork. Their reliance on Khalid Ismaïl and Ali Thani Jumaa proved insufficient against top-tier opponents.
