Uzbekistan had lost twice previously to their opponents at home in World Cup qualifiers and it was third time unlucky for the hosts in Asia’s showpiece competition thanks to substitute Al Menhali’s late intervention after Server Djeparov had hit the post moments earlier.

“We are very glad that we managed to win,” said Katanec .

“I said earlier that national team of Uzbekistan, they are a very strong opponent. For the United Arab Emirates, it is a big victory. Certainly, today’s win was result of our luck.”

Uzbekistan coach Mirdjalal Kasimov had highlighted the lack of match readiness for the majority of his squad prior to kick-off with the domestic league yet to get under way.

And he refused to lay the blame for the defeat at their door.

“I’d like to apologize for result. However I wish to also add words of gratitude to the team. The players have given the best they can, every one of them all gave 100 per cent,” he said.

The hosts had opportunities to win the game with Alexander Geynrikh in particular spurning three chances to find the back of the net.

Djeparov also came close in the third minute of stoppage- time as the former AFC Player of the Year found himself in front of goal with a shooting opportunity and the midfielder’s striker managed to beat keeper Majed Al Maqdami but unfortunately for the Uzbeks not the post.

And Kasimov felt the result was harsh on his men given the overall balance of play.

“I do not consider that we have lost tactically,” he added.

“If we had scored in all the moments that we had chances, nobody would remember or care about our tactics.”

However, the Uzbekistan boss underlined he would learn lessons from the loss and look to rectify them for future games.

“We have lost, we will make a thorough of analysis of the game and we will work hard to cut out the errors,” he concluded.