Arab Cup Finalists Confirmed in Doha

TDT | Manama

Email : hussainm@newsofbahrain.com

Morocco and Jordan secured their spots in the FIFA Arab Cup final last night with composed and clinical performances in Doha. The Atlas Lions made light work of the UAE with a 3-0 win at Khalifa International Stadium, while Jordan edged past Saudi Arabia 1-0 at Al Bayt Stadium, showing that efficiency and discipline can be just as decisive as flair in knockout football.

The Moroccans set the tone early at Khalifa International Stadium and took the lead in the 28th minute. Hamza El Moussawi delivered a superb cross from the left, and Karim El Berkaoui rose highest to power a header past Ruben Canedo and into the bottom corner, making him the joint top scorer of the Arab Cup.

The UAE came close to an instant reply after the restart. Ruben Canedo’s effort was saved by Morocco’s goalkeeper Mehdi Benabid, leaving Caio Lucas with a close-range sliding attempt that struck the post. However, the assistant referee flagged Lucas offside, keeping Morocco in command.

Tarik Sektioui’s men continued to dominate but missed opportunities to extend their lead. Morocco’s Waleed Azaro had a golden chance when El Berkaoui turned provider with an inviting early ball, yet Azaro’s diving header sailed over the bar.

The Atlas Lions eventually doubled their advantage in the 82nd minute. Abdelrazzaq Hamdallah found Achraf El Mahdioui in acres of space inside the box, and the midfielder calmly slotted the ball into the bottom corner. A slight deflection off UAE’s Richard Akonnor ensured the goal went in.

Morocco put the result beyond doubt in stoppage time with a third goal. Walid El Kartii, on as a substitute, lofted a ball into the box for right-back Mohamed Boulacsout, who cut it back to Hamdallah. The forward finished first time to complete a stylish team move and seal a 3-0 win.

Meanwhile, Jordan’s clash with Saudi Arabia at Al Bayt Stadium was a more cagey affair. The Hashemite Kingdom largely controlled the first half but struggled to break down a disciplined Green Falcons defence. Their persistence finally paid off in the 66th minute when captain Mahmoud Al Mardi delivered a beautiful cross, allowing Nizar Al Rtshan to rise and head home the decisive goal.

Saudi Arabia pressed in search of an equalizer, but to make matters worse for Herve Renard’s side, Waleed Al Ahmed was sent off in the final seconds, leaving the Green Falcons to reflect on a narrow defeat and missed opportunity.

The Arab Cup final is now set for December 18 at Lusail Stadium, with Morocco facing Jordan at 7pm. Earlier, Saudi Arabia and the UAE will contest the third-place playoff at Khalifa International Stadium at 2pm, rounding off a tournament that has thrilled fans across the region.