Both teams had maximum points prior to their meeting and it was Japan who were in control when Ozu Moreira and Goto Takasuke ensured a two-goal cushion late in the second half.

However, the UAE roared back and, amid a dramatic finale, did enough to tie up top spot.

In a tight opening period, a powerful downward header from skipper an unmarked Ozu gave Japan a slender advantage going into the interval, with Goto’s close-range finish having seemingly made life more comfortable for Marcelo Mendes’ side.

However, Ali Karim sent a low free-kick into the bottom corner of the net before Hasham Muntaser levelled with less than a minute of the period remaining.

Ali Mohammed then put the UAE in front for the first time as his long-range strike bobbled in the sand to beat Terukina Shingo.

Goto brought Japan back on terms with a well-taken set-piece but UAE then did the damage as Haitham Mohamed and Ahmed Beshr registered late on to effectively seal the points.

Oba found the top corner – prompting heavy pressure from Japan in the hope of extra-time – but the UAE held firm to guarantee their semi-final place, their opponents facing a wait as to their fate.