DOHA: With defending champions Algeria bowing out at the quarter-final stage, the FIFA Arab Cup™ Qatar 2025 is guaranteed to crown a new winner later this week. Just four nations remain, setting the stage for two compelling semi-finals that promise intensity, ambition and history in the making.
The action begins in Al Rayyan, where Africa’s last representatives Morocco take on the United Arab Emirates. Morocco arrive as one of only two unbeaten sides in the tournament and are enjoying an impressive run of form. However, they face challenges with defender Mohamed Moufid suspended and doubts surrounding the fitness of key forward Tarik Tissoudali. Even so, the Atlas Lions will be confident as they chase a first-ever Arab Cup final appearance, having fallen at the quarter-final hurdle four years ago.
Standing in their way are a resurgent UAE side that has grown into the competition. After losing their opening group match to Jordan, the Emiratis regrouped and showed resilience, culminating in a dramatic penalty shootout victory over holders Algeria in the quarters. Despite injury concerns that have sidelined Fabio Lima and Khalid Eisa, coach Cosmin Olaroiu has been encouraged by the emergence of young goalkeeper Hamad Al Meqbaali and the attacking influence of Caio and Bruno.
The second semi-final in Al Khor promises an all-Asian showdown as Saudi Arabia face Jordan at the iconic Al Bayt Stadium. Like Morocco and the UAE, both teams were quarter-finalists in the previous edition and are now just one step away from a historic first final.
With established powers eliminated and new contenders rising, Qatar 2025 is poised to deliver a fresh name on the Arab Cup trophy — and two thrilling semi-finals to decide who gets that chance.
