An injury-time strike from Sultan Al Menhali secured a 1-0 win for United Arab Emirates over Uzbekistan in the final Group C Asian Cup qualifier at Pakhtakor Stadium today.

In a game with little significance due to both sides having already qualified for next year's finals in Doha, Al Menhali's late strike secured top spot for the visitors.

"We are very glad that we managed to win," said Uzbekistan coach Srecko 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."

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

"I'd like to apologise for result," said Uzbekistan coach Mirjalol Kasymov. "However I wish to add also words of gratitude to the team.

"The players have given the best they can, every one of them all gave 100 per cent."