Saudi Arabia’s Abu Al-Shamat proud to play alongside brother as Gulf Cup push continues

Mohamed Abu Al-Shamat says playing alongside his brother Saleh for Saudi Arabia is a source of pride as the hosts target victory in Gulf Cup 27.

Saudi Arabia face Oman at Alinma Stadium in Jeddah on Saturday in their second Group-stage match of the tournament, knowing a win by any score would secure their place in the semi-finals regardless of the result against Iraq in their final group fixture on Tuesday.

“I am proud to play with Saleh for the national team,” Mohamed Abu Al-Shamat told media on Friday, in comments reported by Saudi newspaper Al Yaum.

“If we have produced a good performance, that is because of all the players. We are one family here, and we are all brothers.”

Abu Al-Shamat was also asked about his positional change from full-back to winger. The footballer said he had no difficulty adapting to the role assigned by head coach Georgios Donis.

“I received the instructions from the coach, Georgios Donis, and applied them on the pitch,” he said. “I am ready to play anywhere the Saudi national team needs me, whether as a winger or a full-back.”

Saudi Arabia are hosting the competition and Abu Al-Shamat said the team were not feeling the pressure of playing in front of their own supporters.

“We are not suffering from any pressure,” he said. “We have great confidence, we are playing the tournament among our fans and we want to make the most of that in the best possible way.

“We take each match as it comes and focus on our work so that we can lift the trophy and make the supporters happy.”

The player was also asked how he had handled the attention surrounding his appearance alongside his brother in Saudi Arabia’s game against Kuwait.

His response was that the squad remained united and that he was prepared to fulfil whatever role was required of him. The team have also called for support from the media and fans during the tournament.

Abu Al-Shamat said Donis had made sure the squad were fully prepared for their next opponents.

“The coach gave us a lecture about Oman and we studied them well,” he said. “We are working to apply that information and give everything we have in preparation for tomorrow’s match.”

Saudi Arabia’s victory over Oman would settle their progression before their meeting with Iraq on Tuesday, allowing the side to focus on securing the best possible position in the group.