The United Arab Emirates secured a 1-0 victory over Oman in the Arabian Gulf Cup semi-final on October 3, 2026, at the Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal Stadium in Jeddah, advancing to the final to face Saudi Arabia. Othman Camara scored the decisive goal in the 22nd minute, heading home a cross from Mamadou Coulibaly.
Othman Camara Breaks the Semi-Final Deadlock
The match turned on a single first-half strike. On 22 minutes, Mamadou Coulibaly delivered a cross from the left flank, allowing Othman Camara to head the ball past Oman goalkeeper Ibrahim Al-Mukhaini. Reuters identified the goalscorer as Ousmane Camara, noting he scored from close range to lead Zlatko Dalic’s side to the final for the first time since 2018. The UAE entered the match having topped Group Two with seven points, following a 4-0 win against Yemen, a 3-0 defeat of Bahrain, and a 1-1 draw with Qatar.
Ibrahim Al-Mukhaini Denies Nicolas Gimenez from the Penalty Spot
The UAE maintained pressure after halftime and earned a penalty when Luan Pereira was fouled inside the box. In the 56th minute, Oman goalkeeper Ibrahim Al-Mukhaini stopped Nicolas Gimenez’s spot-kick to keep his team in contention. Reuters noted that Gimenez squandered the penalty opportunity. Oman reached the semi-finals after advancing ahead of Iraq by a draw of lots when both teams finished level on all Group A tiebreak criteria.
Saudi Arabia Awaits in the Gulf Cup Final
The UAE held their lead through the final whistle to set up a championship match against Saudi Arabia. Reuters reported that Saudi Arabia edged Asian champions Qatar 3-2 on penalties after 120 minutes ended goalless in the other semi-final. Saudi goalkeeper Mohammed Al Owais made two crucial saves in the penalty shootout, denying Jassem Gaber and Boualem Khoukhi. The final takes place on Tuesday at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium, where Saudi Arabia will attempt to end a 22-year wait to regain the Gulf Cup.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Gulf Cup Semi-Final
Who won the man of the match award?
Issam Fayez received the man of the match award after a commanding display across both halves.
How many times have the UAE won the Gulf Cup?
The UAE are seeking to win the title for a third time, following previous tournament victories in 2007 and 2013, as reported by Reuters.
When and where is the Gulf Cup final scheduled?
The final between the UAE and Saudi Arabia is scheduled for Tuesday at King Abdullah Sports City Stadium in Saudi Arabia.
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