Arab Cup Showdown: Ex-Oman Star Bets Saudi Arabia to Lift the Arab Cup
2 December 2025
Arab Cup 2025: Emad Al-Hosni backs Saudi to lift the trophy
Emad Al-Hosni, the Oman international who previously wore for Al Ahli Jeddah, has named Saudi Arabia among the favorites to win the Arab Cup, which kicked off recently and runs through December 18 in Qatar.
Saudi Arabia begin their campaign on Tuesday against Oman at Education City Stadium in Doha, as part of Group B's opening round of the Arab Cup 2025.
Al-Hosni, who also played for Al Nassr and Al Riyadh, told the Saudi newspaper Al-Riyadhia that the Green will face a tough test against Oman and that small details may decide the match.
The clash is expected to be tight and open; the Green boast talented, young names such as Saleh Abu Al-Shamat, Feras Al-Briqan, and Mohammed Kanoo, while Oman relies on defensive organization, collective play, and quick transitions in attack. He predicts a closely contested game likely to be decided by fine margins.
Al-Hosni, who earned 129 international caps, argued that the Arab Cup is extremely important because it offers high-level clashes between Arab nations, and serves as a perfect platform to discover talent and prepare teams for continental and global challenges.
Saudi Arabia's campaign begins with Oman today, followed by a clash with Comoros on December 5, and a group finale against Morocco on December 8.
In this context, he believes Saudi Arabia is among the leading contenders alongside Morocco, Qatar and Algeria, all boasting international players. The Arab Cup 2025 is hosted by Qatar, and is a golden opportunity to test squads ahead of bigger assignments.
Education City Stadium in Doha has been chosen to host opening games, underscoring the tournament's prestige and the Arab world's growing appetite for regional competition.
Punchline 1: If patience were a tactic, this match would be a masterclass — and I’d still reach for popcorn.
Punchline 2: In football as in life, timing is everything; unfortunately, my jokes are always offside, but the highlight reel will still be worth watching.
