Saudi Arabia make eight changes for Iraq clash in Gulf Cup 27

Saudi Arabia head coach Giorgos Donis has made eight changes to his starting line-up for the decisive Gulf Cup 27 group-stage meeting with Iraq, after his side secured a place in the semi-finals.

The two teams meet at Alinma Stadium in Jeddah in the third and final round of Group A. Saudi Arabia began the matchday top of the group with six points after victories in their opening two games, while Iraq had four points.

Donis has retained goalkeeper Mohammed Al Owais, winger Sultan Mandash and full-back Mohammed Abu Al Shamat from the team that beat Oman 3-0 on Saturday. The rest of the starting XI has been changed, including Firas Al Buraikan, who scored twice in that victory.

The Greek coach has also reshaped Saudi Arabia’s attacking approach by selecting two recognised strikers. Abdullah Al Hamdan and Abdullah Al Salem will lead the line, with Mandash and Abu Al Shamat expected to provide support from the wide areas.

Saudi Arabia need only a draw to confirm top spot in Group A. Iraq, meanwhile, require one point to guarantee their progress to the semi-finals, although victory would take them above their opponents and secure first place.

The Saudi Arabia starting XI is:

Goalkeeper: Mohammed Al Owais

Defenders: Nawaf Boushal, Abdulelah Al-Amri, Jihad Dhakri, Zakaria Al Hawsawi

Midfielders: Mohammed Abu Al Shamat, Abdullah Al Khaibari, Nasser Al-Dawsari, Sultan Mandash

Forwards: Abdullah Al Hamdan, Abdullah Al Salem