Saudi Arabia turn from Gulf Cup triumph to Asian Cup preparations with South Korea and Uzbekistan friendlies

The Saudi Arabia national team will begin preparations for the 2027 AFC Asian Cup less than 24 hours after winning the 27th edition of the Arabian Gulf Cup, known as Gulf Cup 27.

Saudi Arabia defeated United Arab Emirates 2-0 in Tuesday’s final at Alinma Stadium in Jeddah to claim the Gulf title. The victory has been followed by plans for two demanding friendly matches during the next international break in November.

According to Saudi newspaper Al Riyadiah, Saudi Arabia have agreed to face South Korea and Uzbekistan as part of a training camp in Riyadh from 9 to 17 November.

Both matches are scheduled to take place at Imam University Stadium in the Saudi capital, although that plan is dependent on the necessary preparations being completed to allow the team to train and play there.

The fixtures will form part of Saudi Arabia’s build-up to the 19th edition of the AFC Asian Cup, which will be hosted in the Kingdom. Matches at the tournament will be staged in Riyadh, Jeddah and Al Khobar from 7 January to 5 February.

Saudi Arabia will open their Asian Cup campaign on 7 January at King Fahd International Stadium in Riyadh. They will then face Oman and Kuwait on 12 and 17 January respectively.