The United Arab Emirates secured a spot in the Gulf Cup final by defeating Oman 1-0 on Saturday in a tightly contested semi-final match. Forward Ousmane Camara proved to be the deciding factor, nodding home from close range to push Zlatko Dalic’s team toward a title clash against Saudi Arabia.
This victory marks the UAE’s first appearance in the tournament final since 2018. The team remains in contention for their third Gulf Cup title, having previously claimed the trophy in 2007 and 2013. The match could have been more comfortable, but playmaker Nicolas Gimenez failed to capitalize on a 56th-minute penalty opportunity, leaving Oman within striking distance until the final whistle. Following their previous triumphs in 2007 and 2013, the victory keeps the UAE’s hopes of lifting the trophy for a third time alive.
Reflecting on the tactical adjustments, manager Zlatko Dalic noted to Abu Dhabi Sports TV that the bench provided much-needed energy. He explained that after the missed penalty, the team shifted its approach by introducing new players who managed to change the game’s rhythm. Dalic emphasized the importance of the result, stating that the squad had dedicated the last 20 days of preparation specifically for this high-stakes encounter. We worked hard for the last 20 days for what, i told my players. For this game,” the former Croatia coach added, for this night.
Oman, who entered the knockout stage after progressing ahead of Iraq via a lot-based tiebreak, struggled to find an equalizer despite mounting pressure in the closing minutes. The UAE defense maintained its composure, successfully protecting the narrow lead to close out the match.
Earlier that day, Saudi Arabia secured their own place in the championship match by defeating defending Asian champions Qatar 3-2 in a penalty shootout. The teams remained locked in a scoreless stalemate throughout 120 minutes of play, leading to a tense finish from the spot. Saudi goalkeeper Mohammed Al Owais, 34, was instrumental in the victory, stopping two efforts from the penalty mark, including a retaken kick by Boualem Khoukhi. Forcing the tie to be decided from the spot, the two sides could not find a breakthrough during 120 minutes of a largely disappointing semi-final. Owais, 34, saved Khoukhi’s penalty and then denied him again when the kick was ordered to be retaken.
Qatar’s frustrations were evident throughout the match, particularly when striker Akram Afif reacted sharply to being substituted in the 69th minute. While Qatar displayed defensive solidity—coming closest to a goal when Edmilson hit the crossbar late in the second half—they ultimately fell short against the Saudi side. However, the main talking point for Julen Lopetegui’s side was talisman Akram Afif’s frustrated reaction after being substituted in the 69th minute, with the forward appearing unhappy as he left the pitch.
The final is scheduled to take place on Tuesday at the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, where Saudi Arabia will attempt to end a 22-year drought in the competition. To support the national side, the UAE Football Association has arranged six chartered aircraft to ferry fans to Jeddah.
The association confirmed that registration for these flights will open this Sunday. This initiative aims to ensure a robust turnout of UAE supporters at the stadium to boost morale as the team competes for the trophy. Both nations now stand one win away from regional glory, promising a highly competitive showdown between two of the Gulf’s football powerhouses. Creating a strong atmosphere of support for the national team as it bids to lift the Gulf Cup trophy, the charter flights are intended to make it easier for UAE supporters to travel to Jeddah and attend the decisive encounter.
