Ahmed Eltigani
In the first semi-final game of the 24th Arabian Gulf Cup today, Bahrain will face three-time champions Iraq in a showdown to decide who will face the winner between Qatar and Saudi Arabia in the finals. The match will take place at 17:00 Doha Time at the Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium. Bahrain made their way to the semis after defeating 10-time champions Kuwait in the group stages, finishing second in Group B under Saudi Arabia.
Bahrain coach Helio Sousa spoke ahead of the semi-final fixture and addressed the pressure both teams are facing, “We are playing here in Qatar and are happy with what we are doing as we prepare for any match. Bahrain and Iraq are experiencing the same pressure. I think they are both good teams. They will play against each other and we will see what each team will achieve. We will enjoy playing. The opportunity is available for both teams. We hope to achieve the win.”
Meanwhile, Iraq, who finished the group stages at the top of Group A ahead of hosts Qatar, are a tough opponent in this tournament being currently unbeaten. Iraq Coach Srecko Katanec spoke to reporters on the upcoming semi-final game: “The Bahraini team is good. We should not underestimate it. They defeated Iran and scored four goals against Kuwait. I respect them and it is the same for the players.”