Arabian Gulf Cup: UAE have plenty to work with despite final defeat in Jeddah

The UAE team encountered a disappointing final defeat in the Arabian Gulf Cup at the hands of host nation Saudi Arabia in Jeddah. New UAE coach Zlatko Dalic, however, found reasons for optimism in his inaugural assignment. Despite early goals from Hammam Al Hammami and Feras Albrikan, Saudi Arabia demonstrated the qualities required to claim the title.

The eight-team regional tournament evoked strong emotions due to fan and player disputes, as well as reactions like UAE captain Khalid Essa's to jeers during the national anthem. Nonetheless, Dalic is tasked with the broader objective of securing success beyond local competitions. The imminent challenge ahead is the Asian Cup, also set to be held in Saudi Arabia in January.

Dalic aims to guide the UAE deeper into that competition, with confidence that the team's talent pool offers plenty to work with, expanded by naturalisation. However, the availability of potential starters remains unclear, as new players become eligible before the Asian Cup. Tactical flexibility is an advantage provided by the deeper player pool, allowing Dalic to make substitutions that rectify issues.

Despite conceding two early goals, Dalic highlighted the first 20 minutes as critical, emphasizing the need for caution, patience, and focus. The home crowd's passionate support provided motivation for the UAE, but the team struggled to regain their composure after conceding. Saudi Arabia's defensive solidity, exemplified by their goalless run in the final, showcased their proficiency under coach Georgios Donis, who was appointed shortly before the World Cup.

The Asian Cup, where the UAE will face Palestine on January 7, presents a significant opportunity for the team to build on their Asian Cup achievement.