Jeddah:The UAE national football team secured a spot in the semi-finals of the 27th Arabian Gulf Cup following a 1-1 draw with Qatar at King Abdullah Sports City on Wednesday.
According to Emirates News Agency, the draw allowed the UAE to finish at the top of Group B with seven points, surpassing Qatar based on goal difference. This result sets up a semi-final encounter for the UAE with Group A runners-up Oman. Qatar, finishing in second place, is set to compete against Group A winners Saudi Arabia.
Qatar initially took the lead with a goal by Almoez Ali in the 33rd minute. However, Ali Saleh equalized for the UAE four minutes into first-half stoppage time.
The semi-final matches are scheduled for Saturday. The UAE will face Oman at Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Sports City at 22:30 UAE time, while Saudi Arabia will play against Qatar at King Abdullah Sports City at 19:55 UAE time.