Saudi Arabia’s national team are gearing up to face Bahrain at Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium in Kuwait in their opening game of the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup on Sunday, with the Green Falcons seeking to end a 21-year wait for a fourth elusive title.
Saudi Arabia and Bahrain were placed in Group B alongside Iraq and Yemen.
Recent Form and Preparations
Saudi Arabia’s recent form has been inconsistent. In their last five games, they secured only one victory—a 3-1 friendly win over Trinidad and Tobago last week. This match served as a warm-up for the tournament. French tactician Hervé Renard has called up 26 players for the tournament, including key forward Saleh Al-Shehri. The Al-Ittihad star has netted 15 goals in 38 games.
Additionally, Salem Al-Dawsari brings valuable experience to the midfield.
On the other hand, Bahrain are also facing challenges, entering the fixture on the back of a lengthy winless run. The Pearl Divers haven’t won in their last five matches and have secured just one victory in their last eight. Sitting 22 places below their giant neighbors in the world rankings, Dragan Talajić’s side may not be among the favorites. However, with Iraq and Yemen in the group, they feel confident about reaching the knockout stages.
History of Epic Rivalry
Historically, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain have clashed 38 times. The Green Falcons have won 19 times and lost on just seven occasions, with their most recent game ending in a goalless draw in the AFC World Cup qualifiers back in October. Notably, Saudi Arabia failed to score in their last two official clashes against Bahrain and in three of their last four encounters. The Pearl Divers are winless in their last five official games, losing twice and drawing three times. Saudi Arabia are ranked 59th in the world, while their Gulf neighbors are 22 places behind them.
Match Outlook
Neither team have been on a great run of form lately. However, Saudi Arabia will be confident given their encouraging record in the fixture. The Green Falcons anticipate some resistance but expect to edge out their rivals by a narrow margin.
As the tournament unfolds, both teams aim to improve their form and make a significant impact, with their opening match will set the tone for their campaigns in the Arabian Gulf Cup.
