Saudi Arabia Faces UAE In Gulf Cup Final Showdown

Al-Inma Stadium in Jeddah will host the final of the Arabian Gulf Cup "Khaleeji 27," featuring a decisive clash between the Saudi national team and the United Arab Emirates. According to Transfermarkt data, this marks the 33rd historical encounter between the two nations across all competitions. In Gulf Cup history specifically, the teams have met 18 times, with Saudi Arabia winning 11 matches, the UAE claiming three victories, and four ending in draws. The "Green Falcons" enter the showdown seeking their fourth title, while the Emirates aims to capture its third crown. The final is scheduled for Tuesday, October 6, 2026, kicking off at 9:00 PM Mecca and Doha time, and 10:00 PM UAE time. Broadcast coverage will be carried by Al Kass, Abu Dhabi Sports, Saudi Sports, MBC, Oman Sports, Sharjah Sports, Kuwait Sports, and the Shasha digital platform. Saudi Arabia advanced to the decider after topping Group A with nine points following victories over Kuwait, Oman, and Iraq, before edging Qatar 3-2 on penalties after a goalless draw in the semi-final. Meanwhile, the UAE topped Group B with seven points, defeating Yemen and Bahrain alongside a draw with Qatar, followed by a 1-0 semi-final win against Oman courtesy of Ousmane Camara’s 22nd-minute strike. Saudi Arabia’s projected lineup features goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais behind defenders Mohammed Mahzari, Abdulelah Al-Amri, Jihad Dhikri, and Moteb Al-Harbi. The midfield includes Mohamed Kanno, Saleh Abu Al-Shamat, and Nasser Al-Dawsari, with Sultan Mandash, Hammam Al-Hammami, and Firas Al-Buraikan leading the attack. The UAE’s projected starting eleven comprises goalkeeper Khalid Eisa, with defenders Marcus Meloni, Alaeddine Zouhir, Lucas Pimenta, and Rúben Canedo. Mamadou Coulibaly and Issam Faiz form the defensive midfield, supporting Ali Saleh, Luan Pereira, and Guilherme Bala behind striker Ousmane Camara.