Saudi Arabia goalkeeper Nawaf Al-Aqidi suffers elbow injury in Gulf Cup opener

محمد كنو has reassured Saudi Arabia fans that goalkeeper Nawaf Al-Aqidi’s injury is not believed to be serious after he was forced off during the team’s 1-0 win over Kuwait in the opening match of the Gulf Cup 27.

Al-Aqidi was involved in a heavy collision at Al-Enma Stadium during the first round of the group stage. The Saudi goalkeeper fell to the ground after being caught between Kuwait forward Mohammed Daham and his Saudi Arabia team-mate Meteb Al-Harbi.

The incident left Al-Aqidi unable to continue, prompting the coaching staff to replace him with the experienced goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais.

After the match, Kano provided a brief update on his team-mate’s condition. Speaking to reporters, in comments carried by the Saudi sports website Al-Mيدان الرياضي, the midfielder said: “Nawaf Al-Aqidi is fine. The injury is to his elbow and we will check on him more.”

Kano’s comments eased concerns within the Saudi Arabia camp following the collision, although the team is still waiting for the results of the final medical examinations. Those tests will determine the extent of the injury and whether Al-Aqidi will miss any further matches at the tournament.

Saudi Arabia began their campaign with a narrow victory, securing three points through a goal from Hamam Al-Hamami. His well-delivered ball found the net to settle a difficult contest and give the team a winning start.

The match at Al-Enma Stadium had appeared to be heading towards a worrying conclusion for Saudi Arabia after Al-Aqidi’s injury, but the result ensured the team left with a positive outcome.

Footage of the incident, showing Al-Aqidi being replaced by Al-Owais, was shared by Al Kass on 23 September 2026. The goalkeeper’s availability for Saudi Arabia’s next fixture will depend on the findings of the medical assessment.