Saudi Arabia took another step forward in the Gulf Cup 27 with a solid 2-0 victory over Iraq on Tuesday. Abdullah Al Hamdan and Abdullah Al Salem scored second-half goals to seal a third consecutive win for the Green Falcons in the tournament.
Al Salem opened the scoring in the 54th minute, finishing off a precise cross from Salem Al Dawsari. Al Hamdan then doubled the lead in the 69th minute with a powerful strike from outside the box, completing a decisive pass from Nasser Al Dawsari.
Coach's Reaction
Georgios Donis, the Saudi Arabia head coach, said the team's performance was organised and efficient, praising the defensive focus and ability to finish attacks. He added that the team is building confidence with each win, as shown in the current winning streak. This third consecutive victory follows a run of positive results, with the team having taken 10 points from a possible 12 in its last four competitive matches.
Donis is managing a side that sits fourth in World Cup qualifying with two points from three games. Fans can track the team's qualifying path on our standings page.
The match saw several substitutions from both sides, with Donis introducing Mohammed Al Qahtani and Mishal Al Abu Al Shamat in the second half. Al Hamdan also received a yellow card in the 70th minute. Saudi Arabia's next fixture is a friendly against Palestine at home on 7 January 2027, and upcoming fixtures can be viewed online.
