The United Arab Emirates have punched their ticket to the Gulf Cup final following a hard-fought 1-0 victory against Oman this past Saturday. Forward Ousmane Camara emerged as the hero for Zlatko Dalic’s squad, nodding in a close-range header that ultimately decided the match and moved the team into their first tournament final since 2018. This win keeps alive the UAE’s quest for a third Gulf Cup trophy, building on their previous successes in 2007 and 2013. The result marks another important step for Dalic’s team as they aim to add another Gulf Cup title to their collection.
The match was not without its moments of tension, particularly in the 56th minute when the UAE earned a penalty. Playmaker Nicolas Gimenez was unable to convert the spot-kick, keeping the score narrow and forcing the UAE to rely on a disciplined defensive effort to preserve the lead against an aggressive Omani side. Oman, who had reached this stage after advancing through a tie-breaking lot against Iraq in the group phase, pushed hard for an equalizer in the dying moments but failed to break through. However, Gimenez was unable to convert, keeping Oman within touching distance and setting up a tense finish. But the UAE’s defence held firm to protect their narrow advantage until the final whistle, oman pushed forward in search of an equaliser.
Reflecting on the tactical adjustments, Dalic explained to Abu Dhabi Sports TV how his side regrouped after the missed penalty. The coach highlighted the impact of his substitutions, noting that the new personnel injected fresh energy and altered the team’s rhythm during the final stretch. Dalic emphasized the importance of the result, telling his players that the hard work invested over the previous 20 days was intended for precisely these high-stakes moments. 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.
Earlier in the day, Saudi Arabia secured their own berth in the final after a grueling battle against Asian champions Qatar. Following 120 minutes of goalless, cagey play in a semi-final that failed to produce a breakthrough, the match proceeded to a penalty shootout. Saudi Arabia eventually triumphed 3-2, with goalkeeper Mohammed Al Owais proving decisive. The 34-year-old shot-stopper made two crucial saves, including a retaken effort from Boualem Khoukhi, to help seal the win. Owais, 34, saved Khoukhi’s penalty and then denied him again when the kick was ordered to be retaken.
Qatar’s exit was marked by a moment of controversy, as star forward Akram Afif appeared visibly frustrated after being substituted in the 69th minute. While the defending champions were solid defensively—notably hitting the crossbar through substitute Edmilson—they could not find the net. Saudi Arabia will now look to break a 22-year drought in the competition when they host the final against the UAE this Tuesday at the King Abdullah Sports City Stadium.
To support the team in this decisive clash, the UAE Football Association (UAEFA) has organized a logistical effort to mobilize fans. The governing body announced it will provide six chartered flights to transport supporters to Jeddah for the showdown. This initiative aims to ensure a significant presence of UAE faithful in the stands, turning the atmosphere in their favor as the side seeks the trophy.
The UAEFA confirmed that the process for fans to secure passage on these flights will open on Sunday, with a registration portal provided to the public. As both nations prepare for the final, the match is set to be a highly contested spectacle between two of the region’s football powerhouses, with both sides eyeing regional supremacy.
