Rain Delay Sparks Scrutiny: Will the Saudi Arabia vs UAE Second Half Be Rescheduled?

What the Rules Say

Heavy rain at Khalifa International Stadium delayed the start of the second half in the Saudi Arabia vs United Arab Emirates match in the Arab Cup.

The two teams were scheduled to play for third place on Thursday, after the Green Falcons lost to Jordan in the semi-finals, while the UAE suffered a similar fate against Morocco.

What Could Happen Next

If the rain continues and the pitch remains unplayable, the referee will decide whether the match can resume, and a finish could be declared on another day.

Alternatively, the remaining period could be rescheduled for a later time to complete the fixture.

There have been several rain-induced stoppages in the past, with matches sometimes finishing the next day when conditions improved.

For example, a CAF Champions League semifinal between Al Ahly and Cotonsport was completed the following day under suitable weather.

In the meantime, the weather forecast is now officially a referee too—keeping its own whistle handy for the next weather delay.

If you thought sport needed more drama, just add a drizzle; the ball might sprout a raincoat.