The United Arab Emirates national team, led by Zlatko Dalić, defeated Honduras 3-1 in a friendly match played on Friday at Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. It was the UAE's first friendly since the former Croatia manager took charge of the team.
The UAE took the lead in the 33rd minute through a goal by Khalifa Al-Hammadi, and Bruno Oliveira doubled the advantage in the 48th minute. Four minutes later, Jonathan Toro offered hope to Honduras, but Mohammad Juma put the 'cherry on top' with a goal in the 87th minute to confirm the home side's victory.
Dalić took over the UAE national team last summer, signing a contract until June 2030. Upon his arrival in the UAE, he was immediately 'thrown into the deep end' of the Gulf Cup, where his team lost the final to Saudi Arabia 1-2. Counting the latest triumph, Dalić has four wins, one draw and one defeat in charge of the UAE.
The match against Honduras will serve Dalić as preparation for the Asian Cup, the biggest Asian national team competition, which does not begin until 23 December 2027. The Asian Cup was originally scheduled to start in early January next year, but armed conflicts between Saudi Arabia and the Yemeni Houthis caused a postponement.
The UAE will play their next friendly against Syria on Tuesday in Al Ain.
