Arabian Gulf Cup Promises Fierce Title Fight, Says Khamis

Doha: Former Qatar international Adel Khamis (pictured) predicts intense competition and a huge turnout for the Arabian Gulf Cup (Khaleeji 26), set to take place in Kuwait from December 21, 2024, to January 3, 2025.

Speaking to Qatar News Agency (QNA), Khamis highlighted the tournament's unique fan fervor and its lasting impact on Gulf football since its 1970 inception in Bahrain. He emphasised that the Gulf Cup has been a crucial platform for player development, producing stars recognized across the region for their standout performances.

“The Gulf Cup remains one of the region's most prestigious tournaments, elevating football standards and helping Gulf teams achieve global success, including World Cup qualification and AFC Asian Cup victories,” said Khamis, who earned 110 international caps during his career.

Khamis believes Kuwait is well-prepared to host an exceptional edition, with the presence of seven Gulf teams in the final phase of FIFA World Cup 2026 Asian qualification expected to boost the competition's technical level.

On Qatar's chances, Khamis pointed to their hunger for a fourth title, with the team's last Gulf Cup triumph coming in 2014. He praised standout players like Akram Afif, a two-time AFC Player of the Year, as key to Qatar's campaign.

Defending champions Iraq, hosts Kuwait, and UAE are also strong contenders, according to Khamis. He noted that factors such as fan support and media pressure often shape the tournament's unpredictable outcomes.

Khaleeji 26 will feature eight teams divided into two groups: Group A includes Kuwait, Qatar, UAE, and Oman, while Group B comprises Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Yemen.

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