The UAE’s march toward a potential third Arabian Gulf Cup title remains on track after a resilient 1-1 draw with Qatar secured first place in Group B and set up a semi-final encounter with Oman on Saturday. Ali Saleh’s crucial equalizer in Jeddah ensured the national team finished the group stage unbeaten and maintained its growing momentum under head coach Zlatko Dalić.
Group Winners Despite Qatar Stalemate
The draw brought an end to Dalić’s perfect winning start as UAE coach following victories over Yemen and Bahrain. However, the result was enough for the UAE to top Group B on goal difference and continue their impressive tournament run.
Having already secured qualification for the knockout stage, Dalić chose to rotate his squad heavily against Qatar. Several players with limited playing time were handed starting opportunities, a decision influenced by the demanding fixture schedule and the need to keep the squad fresh for the latter stages of the tournament.
“We are under pressure from matches in a short period of time, but we must be careful in the coming knockout matches,” said Dalić.
Ali Saleh Delivers When It Matters
Despite controlling much of the opening exchanges, the UAE found themselves trailing midway through the first half when Almoez Ali capitalized on a well-delivered cross to put Qatar ahead.
The Emiratis had created several promising opportunities through Luan Pereira, Fabio De Lima, and Khalid Al Dhanhani, but lacked a clinical finish in the final third.
Their persistence was rewarded deep into first-half stoppage time. A loose clearance from the Qatar defence fell kindly to Ali Saleh, who calmly drilled his effort into the corner to level the match and secure top spot in the group.
Squad Depth Offers Further Encouragement
One of the most encouraging aspects of the UAE’s campaign has been the contribution of emerging talent. Guilherme Bala, who announced himself with a goal on his international debut against Bahrain, once again injected pace and creativity after entering the match in the second half.
The winger nearly made an immediate impact and later tested the Qatar goalkeeper with a powerful effort after an impressive solo run. His performances have added another attacking dimension to a UAE side that continues to grow in confidence with each passing game.
Dalić praised the younger players involved and reiterated that giving opportunities across the squad remains part of his long-term vision for the national team.
Oman Present a Different Challenge
While topping the group allowed the UAE to avoid hosts Saudi Arabia in the semi-finals, Dalić has warned against viewing Oman as an easier opponent. The Croatian coach was quick to emphasize the quality and resilience of the Omani side.
“They are a strong national team and a side that should not be underestimated. We hold respect for what they have achieved, and we will try to make every effort to win the next match,” Dalić said.
The UAE coach also stressed the importance of recovery as his players prepare for a high-stakes knockout encounter.
“We have two days to recover and prepare, and we are developing little by little, and we deserve everything we have achieved so far.”
Editorial View: A Team Growing in Belief
From an editorial perspective, the biggest takeaway from the group stage is not the draw against Qatar, but the maturity shown by the UAE throughout the tournament. Rotation did not disrupt the team’s structure, younger players stepped up when called upon, and the squad demonstrated the depth required to compete for silverware.
Dalić’s influence is becoming increasingly visible. The UAE appear organized, confident in possession, and capable of adapting to different match situations. Yet the true measure of progress will come in the knockout rounds.
Oman have already proven they belong among the Gulf’s elite, and any lapse in concentration could end the UAE’s title ambitions. If the national team can combine its attacking quality with the discipline shown so far, a place in the final is well within reach.
Saturday’s semi-final promises to be a defining moment in the early stages of the Dalić era.
