Zlatko Dalic Issues Warning as UAE Prepares for Oman in Arabian Gulf Cup Semi-Finals

The UAE is set to take on Oman on Saturday in the Arabian Gulf Cup semi-final after securing the top spot in Group B. A crucial goal from Ali Saleh secured a 1-1 draw against Qatar in Jeddah on Wednesday night, allowing the national team to finish first on goal difference. This result brought an end to Zlatko Dalic’s perfect start as UAE coach following victories in his first two group matches. Nevertheless, optimism remains strong regarding their chances of reaching the final and pursuing a third Gulf Cup title.

Although winning the group led to a favorable semi-final matchup against Oman instead of hosts Saudi Arabia, Zlatko Dalic decided to rotate his squad ahead of the fixture. "We are under pressure from matches in a short period of time, but we must be careful in the coming knockout matches," Zlatko Dalic stated. "We have two days to recover and prepare, and we are developing little by little, and we deserve everything we have achieved so far." His starting lineup against Qatar consisted of players who had seen limited action or none at all during the previous two fixtures, a pragmatic choice given that contending for the tournament requires playing five matches in 13 days under demanding weather conditions.

Despite the changes, the UAE's replacements maintained a high level of composure. The UAE controlled the early proceedings, though they fell behind midway through the first half when Almoez Ali capitalized on a right-wing cross to give Qatar the lead. However, Ali Saleh equalized for the UAE in stoppage time at the end of the first half by drilling a shot into the corner of the net from the edge of the box.

In the second half, Zlatko Dalic introduced Guilherme Bala off the bench, much like he had done against Bahrain. Guilherme Bala injected energy into the attack with several promising runs and shots on goal. "We were able to control the entire course of the match, especially in the second half, and I am happy today with the young players who took part," Zlatko Dalic remarked. Looking ahead to the semi-final against Oman, he added: "They are a strong national team and a side that should not be underestimated. We hold respect for what they have achieved, and we will try to make every effort to win the next match."