The United Arab Emirates are through to the Gulf Cup final for the first time since 2018 after a 1-0 win over Oman on Saturday, sealed by a close-range header from forward Ousmane Camara.
Camara's moment
Camara's goal was the only one of the match, and it was enough to send Zlatko Dalic's side into Tuesday's final at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, where Saudi Arabia await. The UAE are seeking a third Gulf Cup title after their triumphs in 2007 and 2013.
Oman, the runners-up in the previous edition, had reached the last four in unusual fashion — advancing ahead of Iraq by lot after the two teams finished level on every Group A tiebreak criterion. UAE playmaker Nicolas Gimenez squandered the chance to double the lead when he missed a penalty in the 56th minute.
Saudi survive shootout
In the earlier semi-final, Saudi Arabia edged Asian champions Qatar 3-2 on penalties after 120 goalless minutes. Goalkeeper Mohammed Al Owais, 34, was the hero, making two saves in the shootout — denying Jassem Gaber and then stopping Boualem Khoukhi twice after the kick was ordered retaken.
Qatar's best chance came late in the second half when substitute Edmilson struck the crossbar. Saudi coach Julen Lopetegui also had to deal with talisman Akram Afif's frustrated reaction after being substituted in the 69th minute.
Saudi Arabia will hope to end a 22-year wait to regain the Gulf Cup when they host the UAE on Tuesday.
Sources:
Reuters: UAE beat Oman to reach Gulf Cup final against Saudi
Camara's moment
Camara's goal was the only one of the match, and it was enough to send Zlatko Dalic's side into Tuesday's final at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, where Saudi Arabia await. The UAE are seeking a third Gulf Cup title after their triumphs in 2007 and 2013.
Oman, the runners-up in the previous edition, had reached the last four in unusual fashion — advancing ahead of Iraq by lot after the two teams finished level on every Group A tiebreak criterion. UAE playmaker Nicolas Gimenez squandered the chance to double the lead when he missed a penalty in the 56th minute.
Saudi survive shootout
In the earlier semi-final, Saudi Arabia edged Asian champions Qatar 3-2 on penalties after 120 goalless minutes. Goalkeeper Mohammed Al Owais, 34, was the hero, making two saves in the shootout — denying Jassem Gaber and then stopping Boualem Khoukhi twice after the kick was ordered retaken.
Qatar's best chance came late in the second half when substitute Edmilson struck the crossbar. Saudi coach Julen Lopetegui also had to deal with talisman Akram Afif's frustrated reaction after being substituted in the 69th minute.
Saudi Arabia will hope to end a 22-year wait to regain the Gulf Cup when they host the UAE on Tuesday.
Sources:
Reuters: UAE beat Oman to reach Gulf Cup final against Saudi