Three of the four FIFA Arab Cup 2025 semifinalists—Morocco, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan—have already qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, using the tournament in Qatar to build momentum. The semifinals feature Morocco against the United Arab Emirates and Jordan versus Saudi Arabia on Monday. These matches highlight the teams' readiness for the global stage ahead of next summer's showpiece.
Semifinal Matchups Set for Monday
The FIFA Arab Cup 2025 reaches its climax with semifinals in Qatar. Morocco faces the United Arab Emirates at Khalifa International Stadium in Al Rayyan, kicking off at 5:30 pm local time (9:30 am ET, 2:30 pm BST). Later, at 8:30 pm local time, Jordan takes on Saudi Arabia at Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor.
Morocco's Strong Form
Morocco, coached by Tariq Sektioui, advanced with a 1-0 quarterfinal win over Syria and remains one of two unbeaten teams. Their group included Saudi Arabia, where they drew 1-0, and they also beat Oman 0-0, Comoros 3-1, and Uganda 4-0 in recent form. The Atlas Lions used second-choice players due to the upcoming AFCON, with defender Mohamed Moufid suspended and forward Tarik Tissoudali a fitness concern. Soufiane Bouftini has been key in defense. Historically, Qatar has been favorable, recalling their 2022 World Cup semifinal run.
UAE's Improvement
The UAE, under Cosmin Olaroiu, lost 2-1 to Jordan in the group stage but rebounded with a 3-1 win over Kuwait, 1-1 draws against Egypt and Algeria (advancing on penalties), despite earlier 2-1 losses to Iraq. They beat Algeria in the quarters. Injuries sideline Fabio Lima and Khalid Eisa, with Marcus Meloni suspended; young goalkeeper Hamad Al Meqbaali steps up, supported by attackers Caio and Bruno. Head-to-head, UAE has one win in five against Morocco, with two losses and two draws.
Saudi Arabia and Jordan's Credentials
Saudi Arabia, led by Herve Renard, topped a group with Morocco and Oman, then beat Palestine in the quarters. They famously upset Argentina in 2022 and face a tough World Cup group with Spain, Uruguay, and Cape Verde. Jordan, making their World Cup debut, topped a group with UAE, Egypt, and Kuwait, and defeated Iraq in the quarters. Their rise includes a 2021 Arab Cup quarterfinal and 2023 Asian Cup final.
These performances signal strong preparations for the 2026 World Cup in the US, Mexico, and Canada.
