Saudi Arabia faces Qatar in the Arabian Gulf Cup Gulf 27 semi-final at the Al-Inma Stadium in Jeddah on Saturday, with national team head coach Georgios Donis making a dramatic selection choice by handing Al-Hilal full-back Mohammed Mahzari his first official international appearance. The Greek manager left out Mohammed Abu Al-Shamat—who started every group-stage fixture—and bypassed occasional right-back Nawaf Boushal to start Mahzari, who played zero minutes during the tournament’s opening phase.
Donis Alters Defensive Lineup for Qatar Clash
Mahzari earns his debut following strong club form since moving to Al-Hilal from Al-Taawoun during the summer transfer window. Alongside the tactical shift at full-back, Hassan Tambakti drops to the bench. Donis has instead placed his trust in Abdulelah Al-Amri and Jihad Zikri as the central defensive pairing, with Metab Al-Harbi operating at left-back ahead of the crucial knockout fixture.
Further up the pitch, Firas Al-Buraikan leads the attacking line. Mohammed Al-Owais retains his position as the starting goalkeeper behind the altered defensive framework.
Tournament Path to the Semi-Finals
Saudi Arabia advanced to the knockout rounds after securing maximum points during the group stage. Meanwhile, Qatar collected seven points to finish second in the opposite group on goal difference, trailing group winners the United Arab Emirates. Saturday’s winner in Jeddah advances directly to face the victor of the UAE-Oman semi-final tie in the Gulf 27 tournament final scheduled for next Tuesday.
Georgios Donis drops Mohammed Abu Al-Shamat and Hassan Tambakti
Who did Saudi Arabia replace in the starting lineup for the semi-final?
Head coach Georgios Donis left out Mohammed Abu Al-Shamat—who started all group matches—and benched defender Hassan Tambakti for the match against Qatar.
Where is the Gulf 27 semi-final match being played?
The fixture takes place at the Al-Inma Stadium located in Jeddah.
Which team awaits the winner of the Saudi Arabia and Qatar match?
The winner advances to play the victor of the semi-final fixture between the United Arab Emirates and Oman in the tournament final.