Arab Cup: It will be a tough challenge against Morocco – UAE coach Olariu Cosmin

UAE head coach Cosmin Olăroiu has acknowledged the scale of the challenge awaiting his side ahead of Monday’s Arab Cup semi-final clash against Morocco at the Khalifa International Stadium in Qatar.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Olăroiu described the fixture as a decisive moment in the UAE’s campaign, stressing the significance of reaching the last four of a major continental tournament.

“We have an extremely important match ahead of us,” he said. “Reaching the semi-finals of the Arab Cup is a big achievement, especially after coming through several difficult games. The mood in the squad is very positive and the players are fully prepared for the challenge.”

The Romanian tactician admitted that facing a heavyweight like Morocco would test his side both physically and mentally, noting that psychological readiness could prove decisive at this stage of the competition.

“Morocco are a strong team and playing them is never easy,” Olăroiu added. “At this level, mental strength becomes crucial, particularly under these circumstances. I trust my players to give everything they have in pursuit of victory.”

UAE goalkeeper Adel Al Hosani echoed his coach’s sentiments, underlining the squad’s determination to push on to the final.

“Our ambitions are very high after coming this far,” he said. “We know it will be a tough match, but my teammates and I will do everything possible to keep our journey going and reach the final.”

This marks the UAE’s third appearance at the Arab Cup, following campaigns in 1998 and 2021. The team is contesting the semi-finals for only the second time, having reached the same stage in the 1998 edition in Qatar, where they were narrowly defeated 2–1 by hosts Al-Annabi. In the most recent tournament, also held in Qatar, the UAE exited at the quarter-final stage after a heavy 5–0 loss to the hosts.