Lead:
The 27th Arabian Gulf Cup commenced on Wednesday 25 September 2026 in Jeddah with eight national teams competing for regional supremacy. The tournament features opening matches between Iraq and Oman, and Saudi Arabia against Kuwait, with preparations and squad adjustments underway across all participating nations.
Multiple football federations finalized rosters and coaching strategies ahead of the competition. Regional broadcasters secured transmission rights while domestic league competitions and international athletics events continued to progress across the Arab Gulf states.
Top Stories:
Iraq versus Oman (Gulf Cup 27) — The Iraqi national team opened its tournament campaign on Wednesday evening at Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal Stadium in Jeddah. Head coach Graham Arnold confirmed the squad possesses both experienced players and emerging talent, while injury-related roster changes were finalized, including the inclusion of Mustafa Qabil from Erbil to replace an injured player.United Arab Emirates at Gulf Cup 27 — The Emirati delegation arrived in Jeddah with enthusiasm as coach Zlatkovic Dalic finalised squad composition for Thursday's match against Yemen. Dalic emphasised the national team's objective to reach the furthest possible stage and bring joy to supporters, describing the competition as beneficial for squad experience and development.Saudi Arabia opens against Kuwait — Head coaches George Donis (Saudi Arabia) and Helio Souza (Kuwait) both confirmed winning remained their sole objective ahead of the opening match. Both teams entered the tournament targeting victory in their opening fixture.Ahmed Shalaby death — Ahmed Shalaby, a prominent youth sector figure at Egypt's Al-Ahly club and former player with Al-Ahly and Port Said, died on Wednesday morning. Shalaby's name remained associated with youth football development across multiple Egyptian clubs during his career.Arsenal manager contract renewal — Mikel Arteta reached agreement with Arsenal on an improved new contract following months of negotiations. The Spanish coach continues leading the Premier League club with enhanced terms.Al-Zawraa Iraqi football — Al-Zawraa emerged as the strongest defensive and offensive unit in the Iraqi league after eight rounds of competition within the 20-team Iraqi Stars League. The club distinguished itself significantly across both statistical categories.What to Watch:
Emirates faces Yemen in Gulf Cup 27 on Thursday evening at 1955 local time as the tournament progresses through group stage matches. Al-Zawraa continues pursuit of league supremacy in Iraq's domestic championship while international clubs finalize preparations for upcoming continental competitions.