Lead:
Gulf Cup 27 continued in Saudi Arabia with Saudi Arabia securing semi-final qualification from Group One, while Iraq delivered an entertaining 3-2 victory over Kuwait in a competitive match. Across football and wider sport, France began its Euro Nations League campaign under new coach Zinedine Zidane with a 1-0 win over Turkey, and Egypt's national team faced internal controversy following Mohamed Salah's departure from the training camp ahead of Africa Cup of Nations qualifying.
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Saudi Arabia national team — The squad qualified for the semi-finals of Gulf Cup 27 by advancing from Group One, marking their seventh appearance at this stage of the tournament. The team seeks to win the championship on home soil for the second time in their history.Iraq vs Kuwait — Iraq defeated Kuwait 3-2 in an entertaining Group One match during the second round of Gulf Cup 27 in Jeddah, with the result described as thrilling and highly competitive. Former goalkeeper Abdel-Reda Abbas praised the "Gulf Clasico" as one of the finest matches for Kuwait.France national team under Zinedine Zidane — France won 1-0 away to Turkey in the opening round of the Euro Nations League 2026-2027, with Kylian Mbappe scoring the decisive goal. Mbappe subsequently suffered a left-knee hyperextension requiring removal from the second half, raising concerns for Real Madrid.Spain defeats England 3-2 at Wembley — World Cup champion Spain defeated England 3-2 at Wembley Stadium in the Euro Nations League, with Mikel Oyarzabal scoring the winning goal after England committed two defensive errors.Egypt national team internal controversy — Mohamed Salah departed the Egyptian national team training camp unexpectedly following the squad's goalless draw against Angola in opening Africa Cup of Nations 2027 qualifying. The Egyptian Football Association's technical staff confirmed the departure by mutual agreement.Luka Modric scores at age 41 — The veteran Croatian midfielder netted in Croatia's 2-1 victory over Czech Republic in the opening round of Euro Nations League Group Three play.What to Watch:
Qatar faces Yemen on Sunday, September 27, 2026, in Gulf Cup 27 Group Two action at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah. Upcoming matches also include the United Arab Emirates against Bahrain and the continuation of the World Handball Championship with Egyptian clubs Zamalek and Al-Ahly competing.