Giorgos Donis leads Saudi Arabia to Gulf Cup victory

On October 6, 2026, the Saudi Arabia national football team defeated the United Arab Emirates 2-0 to win the Gulf Cup in Jeddah. This victory marks the fourth time the team has secured the title, and the first since 2004. The match was decided early, with Al Hamami scoring in the 11th minute and Al Buraikan adding a second goal just two minutes later, which stood as the final result. The tournament success marks the first major trophy for Greek coach Giorgos Donis during his tenure as national team manager.

The triumph effectively ended speculation regarding Donis’s position. Prior to the competition, reports suggested the Saudi Arabian Football Federation had reached a four-year agreement with Roberto Martinez, worth 15 million dollars. However, the federation officially denied these claims, confirming that Donis will remain in his post. The coach, who also led the squad at the 2026 World Cup, is currently under contract until the summer of 2027. Future discussions regarding his long-term tenure are expected as the federation moves past the rumors of his dismissal.