Saturday 03 / October / 2026
Jeddah: The Oman national football team will face the United Arab Emirates on Saturday, at 10:30 pm Oman time in the semi-final of the 27th Arabian Gulf Cup, being held in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia.
The match will take place at Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Sports City Stadium, with Oman seeking to reach the tournament final after securing the second qualification spot from Group A.
Oman advanced to the semi-finals after finishing level with Iraq on four points. The two teams were also level on a number of criteria, including yellow cards and goals, with the draw determining Oman as the second qualifier behind group winners Saudi Arabia, who collected nine points.
Oman secured its place in the last four following an impressive comeback against Kuwait in the final group-stage match. After falling behind early in the game, the national team scored three goals in the second half to complete the comeback and claim all three points.
The team has conducted recovery sessions over the past two days at its residence to restore the players’ physical readiness following the group-stage matches. On Friday evening, the players continued preparations with a training session at the auxiliary field of Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Sports City Stadium.
The final training session is expected to focus on technical and tactical aspects, including the strategies coach Tarik Sektioui plans to employ against the UAE. It will also help determine the starting lineup and technical options for the semi-final.
The session will further focus on improving physical and technical readiness, strengthening coordination among the players and addressing aspects identified during the group-stage matches.
The UAE reached the semi-finals after topping Group B with seven points from two wins and a draw, setting up the encounter with Oman.
Speaking at a press conference at the tournament’s media centre, Oman coach Tarik Sektioui said preparations for the match had focused on the desire to secure victory and ensuring the players’ physical and mental readiness.
He praised the efforts of the national team players, noting that Omani football has developed players capable of overcoming challenges. He added that the squad combines experienced players with others at the beginning of their international careers.
He stressed that Oman will approach the UAE with respect, as it has done against all its opponents in the tournament, while maintaining its focus on securing a place in the final.
