Saudi Arabia and UAE meet in Gulf Cup 27 final with fourth and third titles at stake

Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates face off in the Gulf Cup 27 final in Jeddah on Tuesday, with the hosts chasing a fourth title and the UAE seeking a third.

The Saudi side reached the decider without conceding a goal, making its defensive record a central feature of its campaign.

The UAE, meanwhile, scored nine goals on its way to the final. That attacking return sets up a test of Saudi Arabia’s unbreached defence as the two sides compete for the trophy.

The tournament also saw defending champions Bahrain eliminated, leaving the title to be contested by Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

Oman’s progress provided another notable turn, with a drawing of lots sending the team into the semi-finals at Iraq’s expense. The focus now shifts to Jeddah, where either Saudi Arabia or the UAE will add to its Gulf Cup honours.