The UAE was eliminated from the Arabian Gulf Football Cup, also known as Khaleeji Zain 26, on December 27. Despite their efforts, a 1-1 draw against Oman in their final Group A match at Jaber Al-Mubarak Stadium ended their hopes of advancing.
To qualify for the next stage, the UAE needed to win by at least two goals but managed to secure only two points in the group. Oman, with five points, topped Group A and qualified for the semifinals, edging out Kuwait on fair play rules. Oman will now face the second-placed team from Group B.
In another Group A match, Kuwait drew 1-1 with Qatar at Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium. With five points, Kuwait secured the runner-up position and will face the Group B winners in the semifinals. Qatar, like the UAE, was eliminated from the tournament with only two points.
