United Arab Emirates 3-1 Honduras
International Friendly
Friday 13 November 2026 | Mohammed Bin Zayed Stadium / Sheikh Zayed Stadium, Abu Dhabi
Referee: Ahmad Al Ali

The United Arab Emirates earned a convincing 3-1 victory over Honduras in an international friendly in Abu Dhabi, giving Zlatko Dalić a positive result in his first major test since taking charge of the national team. Khalifa Al-Hammadi, Bruno Oliveira and Mohammad Juma scored for the hosts, while Jonathan Toro replied for Honduras.

First half

UAE controlled the early stages and created the better opportunities. The breakthrough arrived in the 33rd minute when Rúben Canedo delivered a dangerous free-kick/cross into the box. Al-Hammadi rose unmarked and powered a header past the Honduras goalkeeper to give the home side a 1-0 lead. The hosts maintained their advantage until the interval, with Honduras struggling to create clear chances despite occasional counter-attacks.

Second half

UAE doubled their lead just three minutes after the restart. Ali Saleh provided the assist, and Bruno Oliveira finished clinically to make it 2-0. Honduras responded quickly, reducing the deficit in the 52nd minute through Jonathan Toro, who finished after a well-worked move involving David Ruiz.

The visitors pushed for an equaliser in the latter stages, but UAE managed the game effectively. In the 87th minute, substitute Mohammad Juma sealed the result with a composed right-footed finish from inside the area, assisted by Sultan Adil, to make the final score 3-1.

Full-time: United Arab Emirates 3-1 Honduras.

Key points

The win returns UAE to winning ways under Dalić after their Gulf Cup final defeat to Saudi Arabia earlier in the autumn. The Croatian coach, who took over in August after nearly nine years with Croatia, has now guided the national team to a solid result in their first friendly of the November window. Honduras, managed by José Francisco Molina, showed moments of quality but were undone by defensive lapses, particularly at set pieces and in transition. The result provides useful preparation for both sides ahead of upcoming competitive fixtures.

Match Report by Dr. Talal Osman
Manager, GCC Sport