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The Gulf Cup of Nations entered its decisive phase with Saudi Arabia securing first place in Group One following a 2-0 victory over Iraq. Across major international competitions, Spain maintained its remarkable unbeaten streak, while Egypt dominated African Cup of Nations qualifying with a commanding 5-0 win against South Sudan.
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Saudi Arabia vs. Iraq (Gulf Cup 27) — The Saudi national team clinched top spot in Group One of the Gulf Cup of Nations with a 2-0 victory over Iraq in the third and final match of the group stage. The result kept Saudi Arabia's perfect record intact throughout the tournament phase.Spain 4-1 Croatia (UEFA Nations League) — Lamin Yamal scored two goals and contributed one assist as Spain recorded a 4-1 victory over Croatia in UEFA Nations League Group One play. The result extended Spain's unbeaten streak to 40 consecutive matches and maintained the world champions' perfect record in the competition.Egypt 5-0 South Sudan (Africa Cup of Nations Qualifying) — Egypt secured top position in Group Two of African Cup of Nations 2027 qualifying with a decisive 5-0 defeat of South Sudan. Forward Hamza Abdel Karim, Barcelona's Egyptian attacker, scored his first official goals for the national team in the dominant performance.Oman advance via penalty shootout (Gulf Cup 27) — Oman qualified for the semi-finals of the Gulf Cup of Nations after defeating Iraq on penalty kicks in a Group One decider. The victory marked a significant milestone for the Omani football program.France 1-0 Belgium (UEFA Nations League) — France claimed a narrow away victory over Belgium in UEFA Nations League competition, with the performance pleasing interim coach Zinedine Zidane. The result underscored France's resilience following an opening-match defeat.Italy 4-1 Turkey (UEFA Nations League) — Italy responded to its opening loss by thrashing Turkey 4-1 on Turkish soil in UEFA Nations League Group One play. The emphatic victory demonstrated the Azzurri's capacity to recover quickly in international competition.What to Watch:
United Arab Emirates face Qatar on Wednesday in Group Two of the Gulf Cup, with the Emirati side seeking to maintain their perfect record of six points from two matches and seven goals scored.World Padel Tour participants Fatima Al-Janaahi and Aisha Al-Awadi of the United Arab Emirates compete in the Asiad 2026 preliminary rounds following their opening victory against a Lebanese pairing.