Saudi Arabia strike twice in 14 minutes to seize control of Gulf Cup 27 final

Saudi Arabia made a blistering start to the Gulf Cup 27 final, scoring twice in the opening 14 minutes against United Arab Emirates at Alinma Stadium in Jeddah on Tuesday, 6 October 2026.

The intensity was evident both in the stands and on the pitch. Saudi supporters unveiled a historic tifo before setting off a series of fireworks, leaving the stadium covered by clouds of smoke.

The players then matched the atmosphere with two early goals.

Hamam Al-Hamami opened the scoring in the 11th minute with a shot from the edge of the penalty area. The effort struck an United Arab Emirates defender, changing direction and deceiving goalkeeper Khalid Eisa before finding the net.

Saudi Arabia doubled their advantage only three minutes later. Firas Al-Buraikan broke clear of the United Arab Emirates defence and finished with a low left-footed shot.

Saudi Arabia came close to adding a third before the first quarter of an hour had elapsed. Saleh Abu Al-Shamat found himself one-on-one with Eisa, but his attempt struck the post.

The result left Saudi Arabia two goals ahead after a remarkable opening to the final of the 27th edition of the Gulf tournament.