UAE Dismisses Coach Bento Amid Qualifier Challenges

The UAE Football Association has dismissed Paulo Bento as head coach despite a 2-1 victory over North Korea that kept their World Cup qualification hopes alive. This decision comes as the UAE is four points behind second-placed Uzbekistan in Group A, with two critical qualifiers remaining. Bento, who was appointed in July 2023, managed 14 wins, six draws, and six losses, but faced criticism for inconsistent results, including a recent loss to Iran. His sudden departure leaves the UAE searching for their 10th manager in eight years, with a new coach expected to lead the team against Uzbekistan on June 5. The UAE's direct qualification hopes hinge on overtaking Uzbekistan, with further qualifying rounds possible if they finish third or fourth. Bento's tenure included notable victories and efforts towards player naturalization, but the UAE FA determined a change was necessary to reach their World Cup goals.