Dalic says UAE’s Gulf Cup final against Saudi Arabia will be ‘easiest’ mentally

Zlatko Dalic says the United Arab Emirates are ready to face Saudi Arabia in Tuesday’s Gulf Cup final at Alinma Stadium in Jeddah, describing the decisive match as the “easiest” mentally for his players.

The UAE manager was speaking at a news conference broadcast by Abu Dhabi Sports on 5 October 2026, ahead of a final in which Saudi Arabia will have home advantage and face the side Dalic believes have been the tournament’s strongest team.

“I am very happy with the support I receive personally and I thank the UAE fans for their great backing,” said Dalic.

The Croatian coach, who has spent many years living in the UAE, added: “I have lived in the UAE for many years, and the UAE is as dear to me as Croatia.”

Dalic said his experience would help him give his best to the national team, while making clear that winning the Gulf Cup was now his main objective.

“I have the experience to give my best for the UAE national team,” he said. “My aim now is to win the Gulf Cup with the Whites and to achieve victories with the team all the time.”

The UAE coaching staff have been working to address weaknesses and make the necessary changes despite having limited time to prepare for the final.

Dalic believes the occasion could ease the mental pressure on his players because it is the last match of the competition.

“Tomorrow’s match will be the easiest from a mental perspective because it is the final and carries a special character,” he said. “I want the players to enjoy themselves and play in the best possible way. I hope we can produce an entertaining match for the fans.”

He also acknowledged the difficulty of facing the hosts.

“We will face Saudi Arabia, the best team in the tournament,” Dalic said. “They have kept clean sheets and have the advantage of playing at home and in their own stadium. This is a difficult challenge for us, but we are ready and our goal is the title.”

Eisa expects a competitive final

UAE goalkeeper Khalid Eisa said support from his country’s fans would provide the team’s main motivation and encouragement in the final.

“We thank the Saudi people for their warm welcome,” said Eisa. “I expect a match with a great deal of competitiveness, and I hope tomorrow’s game will be the moment when UAE football reaps its rewards.”

Eisa also praised Dalic’s management style and his relationship with the squad.

“Dalic is an outstanding coach and has a smooth approach,” he said. “He understands what you need as a person before you are a player, so that you can give your best on the pitch.”