Arab Cup Chaos Sweeps Doha

TDT | Manama

Email : hussainm@newsofbahrain.com

Doha once again delivered football at its most thrilling as Jordan and the UAE secured their spots in the FIFA Arab Cup 2025 semi-finals. From late handballs to nerve-shredding penalties, both quarter-finals kept fans on the edge of their seats.

Earlier at Education City Stadium, Jordan edged Iraq 1–0. Star striker Yazan Al-Naimat went down injured early, but Jordan continued to attack down the wings. The breakthrough came in the 41st minute when a header struck Iraq’s Mustafa Saadoon’s arm. VAR confirmed the penalty, and Ali Olwan calmly converted. Iraq dominated possession in the second half and tested goalkeeper Abulaila from distance, but Jordan’s defense held firm to secure the win. They will face Saudi Arabia in the semi-finals on Monday, December 15, at Al Bayt Stadium (8:30 PM).

Meanwhile, at Al Bayt Stadium, the UAE and Algeria delivered a match packed with drama. Algeria took the lead in the 46th minute when Adil Boulbina finished a rebound from a long-range strike by captain Yacine Brahimi. The UAE equalized in the 64th minute when Bruno Conceicao met a precise cross from Yahya Al Ghassani. Both sides threatened in the closing minutes — Algeria hit the post, and the UAE’s late penalty appeal was denied — sending the game into extra time. Goalkeeper Hamad Al Meqbaali produced a stunning save to deny Zakaria Draoui’s last-second volley, forcing a penalty shootout.

The shootout was a test of nerves, with Al Meqbaali’s crucial stops helping the UAE prevail. They will now meet Morocco at Khalifa International Stadium on Monday, December 15, at 5:30 PM.

With the final four confirmed — Morocco, Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and the UAE — the stage is set for two semi-finals that promise more moments that could define the 2025 Arab Cup. Doha has already delivered unforgettable nights, and the best is yet to come.