Lead:
The 2026 sporting calendar enters its final quarter with intense regional tournament action across football, athletics, and combat sports. The Gulf Cup 27 championship launched in Jeddah with dominant performances from several teams, while continental qualifiers proceed for Africa's Cup of Nations and Europe's Nations League competitions. Multiple international friendlies and domestic league fixtures are underway across the Middle East, North Africa, and Europe.
Top Stories:
United Arab Emirates national football team — defeated Yemen 4-0 in Group Two's opening match of Gulf Cup 27. Coach Zlatko Dalic emphasized the need for restraint despite the emphatic victory, cautioning his players to remain grounded.Saudi Arabia national football team — defeated Kuwait 1-0 in their Gulf Cup 27 opener at Al-Inma Stadium before over 31,000 spectators. The result ended Saudi Arabia's historical difficulty in Kuwait's home venue.Sardar Azmoon, Iran national team — returned to Iran's squad as a substitute in an international friendly, which Iran lost to Uzbekistan 3-1. The striker's reintegration follows prior absence from the team's plans.Iraq national football team — drew 1-1 with Oman in their Group Two match. Coach Graham Arnold criticized the pitch conditions and grass length at the Jeddah venue following the result.Oman national football team — drew 1-1 against Iraq. Coach Tarek Al-Shikitawi expressed satisfaction with the team's spirit and cohesion despite the level performance.United Arab Emirates track and field — finished seventh in the mixed 4x400 relay final at Aichi-Nagoya 2026 Asian Games with a time of 3:21.94 minutes.What to Watch:
Portugal faces Wales in the UEFA Nations League Group One match on Friday, 25 September 2026. The Dubai Basketball team hosts Real Madrid in the EuroLeague season opener Thursday evening.