The UAE survived a second-half scare to secure a 3-1 victory against Hong Kong in the Group C clash for the AFC Asian Cup.
The Emiratis struck first in the 34th minute, with Sultan Adil coolly converting a penalty to send the home crowd into a frenzy.
However, Hong Kong refused to be daunted. Just after the restart, Chan Siu Kwan pounced on a loose ball to equalise, injecting a jolt of excitement into the match.
Undeterred, the UAE pushed back with renewed vigour. Zayed Al Zaabi restored their lead with a precise strike, and late on, Yahya Al-Ghassani sealed the victory with another penalty, sending the UAE off to a winning start in their quest for Asian glory.
Atletico hit back to hold Arsenal in cagey Champions League semi-final first leg
Lucky loser Potapova makes history with Madrid Open semi-final run
Britain's Draper to miss French Open with ongoing knee injury
Canadian government allocates $145 million for World Cup security
Clinical Sinner holds off wildcard Jodar to reach Madrid Open semis
