Zlatko Dalic prepares for his competitive debut as the UAE national football team manager this Thursday, facing Yemen in the opening match of the 27th Gulf Cup. Held in Jeddah from September 23 to October 6, the tournament features eight nations split into two groups. The UAE shares Group B with Yemen, Qatar, and Bahrain, while Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Oman, and Kuwait contest Group A. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals.
Dalic arrives with an extensive coaching pedigree, having recently concluded a nine-year tenure with Croatia, during which he achieved a 2018 World Cup final appearance, a third-place finish in 2022, and a 2023 Nations League final berth. He took the UAE post two months ago, following the departure of Cosmin Olaroiu after the team missed out on qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
Reflecting on his new challenge, Dalic expressed respect for their opening opponent. He emphasized that the team is focused on preparation rather than external pressure, stating, “We know our objectives and we are not putting ourselves under any kind of pressure. We have been working on each and every detail in the last few days to bring the team to the optimum level.” He added that his priority is fostering confidence and unity to meet the expectations of UAE supporters.
The UAE boasts a storied history in the Gulf Cup, having competed since the tournament’s second edition in 1972. They have reached the final six times, securing titles in 2007 and 2013 while finishing as runners-up on four other occasions. Seeking their third championship, the squad is also preparing for upcoming challenges, including Group E fixtures against South Korea, Vietnam, and Yemen in the 2027 AFC Asian Cup.
Player Sultan Adil echoed the coach’s measured outlook, noting that the squad is strictly focused on a step-by-step approach. “We understand the importance of the tournament and we will take it step-by-step, that is one match at a time to achieve our goal,” Adil stated. He noted that the players are benefiting from the vast experience of veteran teammate Ismail Matar.
Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, President of the UAE Football Association, voiced his confidence in the new technical staff and the squad’s potential. He highlighted that this tournament serves as a critical opportunity to bolster the team’s capabilities and gain vital experience. The President urged the players to maintain focus and emphasized the enduring importance of the competition to the region.
Stressing the need for unity, the UAE FA President also called for broad public and media support. “Support from the public and the media is essential, as they are key motivators in football and indispensable to the sport,” he said. He further encouraged collective efforts to ensure the 27th edition successfully meets its sporting and social objectives, wishing the national team success as ambassadors of the country. The report also notes that mohammad Abdullah, Senior Sports Reporter. The report also notes that with eight teams divided into two groups, gulf Cup 27 is being held in Jeddah from Sept.23 to Oct.6. The report also notes that dalic vowed to put up a strong performance and emerged as one of the top contenders for the title. The report also notes that “This is my first time taking part in the tournament and we are looking forward to deliver a strong performance starting with Yemen, a team we have a great respect for. The report also notes that “I am very happy with our group and the most important thing is to play with confidence, stand together as one team and delivering a performance to live up to the expectations of our fans,” he added. The report also notes that dalic relinquished his job as Croatian coach after their 2026 World Cup campaign ended in the round of 32 with a 2-1 defeat by Portugal. The report also notes that we are confident that everyone will rally behind the team and provide the necessary support.
