Oman vs Saudi Arabia prediction 26.09.2026 | Gulf Cup 2026

Oman began their campaign with a hard-earned 1-1 draw against Iraq. They conceded after just six minutes but responded through Nasser Al-Rawahi in the 67th minute.

The match statistics showed a largely defensive performance. Iraq had 56% possession and 15 shots compared with just three for Oman, while Oman managed only one attempt on target. Nevertheless, Tarik Sektioui's side remained organised enough to take a point against one of the group's strongest teams.

Oman had also shown mixed results immediately before the tournament, beating Mozambique 4-1 but losing 3-0 to Indonesia in June. Their longer-term record has generally featured relatively low-scoring matches, and they have often relied on defensive organisation rather than sustained attacking pressure.

No major new injury concern for Oman has been widely reported ahead of Saturday's fixture.

Saudi Arabia opened the tournament with a 1-0 victory over Kuwait, with Yousef Al-Haqan's 73rd-minute own goal ultimately deciding the match. 

Despite the narrow scoreline, the hosts dominated statistically, recording 67% possession, 23 shots and seven efforts on target, while Kuwait managed only six shots throughout the course of the match.

The result continues a generally low-scoring run for the Green Falcons. Their three World Cup group matches produced a 1-1 draw with Uruguay, a 4-0 defeat to Spain and a goalless draw with Cape Verde. They also drew 0-0 with Senegal in June before beating Puerto Rico 3-0.

Saudi Arabia will, however, be without midfielder Musab Al-Juwayr, who was removed from the Gulf Cup squad for disciplinary reasons. Defender Ali Lajami is listed with a hamstring injury, while Saud Abdulhamid has been carrying a knock.