A win would have earned the UAE, who lost 3-1 to Great Britain at Wembley at London 2012, a place in the knock-out stage following Australia’s 2-0 victory over Vietnam earlier in the day.

But it’s now still all to play for between the top three sides going into the final round of matches on Wednesday (January 20) with Jordan and the UAE both on four points and Australia on three.

"This match was very tough," said UAE assistant coach, Noureddine Abidi.

"Both teams went into it with a huge spirit to win, taking into consideration the situation that both of us won our previous match.

"It meant a different calculation and strategy.

"We started strong and we had two good chances in the first half and if we had scored we would have been in a good situation.

"But apart from these two chances the game was very tactical."

In the day’s other game, centre-back James Donachie opened the scoring inside the first two minutes as Australia looked to bounce back from their 1-0 opening day defeat by the UAE on Thursday (January 14).

Forward Jamie Maclaren added a second goal on the hour mark to keep the Olyroos firmly in the qualification hunt.

"It was a very positive game for us," said Australia coach Aurelio Vidmar.

"I knew going into the game we had to rebound following the defeat by the UAE three days ago and I was really confident we would bounce back and that is what they did and we controlled the game for long periods.

"We got a little sloppy in the second half, but their goalkeeper made some fine saves and we potentially could have had more goals.

"But I am still very satisfied to win 2-0."

The UAE next go up against winless Vietnam, who are now unable to qualify, while Jordan play Australia in what is likely to be the decisive contest.  

Tomorrow’s action sees the final round of Group A matches take place.

Hosts Qatar meet Syria knowing a draw will be enough to secure qualification and top spot, after which Iran face China.

Three teams at the tournament will qualify for Rio 2016.