Splash and Spark: the Rain-Delayed Saudi vs UAE Arab Cup Restart

Restart details

Media reports have revealed the scheduled resumption of the Saudi national team's match against the United Arab Emirates, a clash to decide third and fourth place in the 2025 Arab Cup in Qatar.

The referee had decided not to start the second half due to heavy rain at Khalifa International Stadium in Rayyan, Qatar, which left large pools on the pitch and made continuing play unsafe.

Players, technicians, and match officials moved to the locker rooms as the stadium was cleared of fans and spectators, prioritizing safety and reducing any risk from the worsening weather.

According to Saudi network Al Ekhbariya, the organizers decided to restart the match at 4:30 PM Mecca time, after maintenance teams removed the standing water and prepared the pitch to guarantee a safe and normal restart.

Players are expected to return to the field ahead of the second half for warm-ups and preparation, as fans and analysts await the restart and the completion of the third-place playoff between Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

And if the heavens reopen, the referee will call for a rain-check vote—two halves, one weather forecast! Meanwhile, the ball is practicing its puddle-jump shots; it's the only time water breaks are mandatory.