Zlatko Dalic is set to lead the UAE national football team in their opening match against Yemen at the 27th Gulf Cup, which kicks off on Thursday in Jeddah. This tournament runs from September 23 to October 6 and features eight teams divided into two groups. The UAE is placed in Group B alongside Yemen, Qatar, and Bahrain, while Group A includes Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Oman, and Kuwait, as reported by Gulf Today.
The top two teams from each group will progress to the semi-finals. The UAE has a strong history in the Gulf Cup, having first participated in 1972 and reaching the final six times, winning titles in 2007 and 2013.
This tournament marks Dalic’s debut as the UAE’s head coach, following his appointment two months ago after the departure of Cosmin Olaroiu. Olaroiu left the role after the team failed to qualify for the recent World Cup held in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
Dalic expressed his determination to deliver a strong performance, positioning the UAE as a serious contender for the title. He acknowledged the respect the team holds for Yemen and emphasized the importance of confidence and teamwork. He stated that the team has been meticulously preparing to meet their objectives without succumbing to pressure.
Prior to taking on the UAE role, Dalic was the head coach of Croatia, where he led the team to the 2018 World Cup final and a third-place finish in 2022. The UAE will also compete in Group E of the 2027 AFC Asian Cup, facing South Korea, Vietnam, and Yemen.
UAE player Sultan Adil expressed confidence in the team’s preparations and their readiness to execute the coach’s game plan. He highlighted the importance of taking the tournament step-by-step and learning from experienced players like Ismail Matar.
Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, President of the UAE Football Association, expressed confidence in the national team’s capabilities under the new coaching staff. He emphasized the significance of the Gulf Cup in enriching the team’s experience and urged players to maintain focus and effort throughout the tournament.
Sheikh Hamdan also called for public and media support, recognizing their role as key motivators in football. He underscored the historical importance of the Arabian Gulf Cup, which has garnered attention from generations of players and fans alike, and reiterated the UAE Football Association’s commitment to ensuring the success of this prestigious tournament.
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