Jordan are chasing a landmark triumph when they meet Morocco in Thursday’s FIFA Arab Cup 2025 final, while Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates will contest the playoff for third position earlier in the day.
Jordan are chasing a landmark triumph when they meet Morocco in Thursday’s FIFA Arab Cup 2025 final, while Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates will contest the playoff for third position earlier in the day.
The title match at Khalifa International Stadium will feature two nations who have delivered eye-catching performances over the past two years, with Jordan and Morocco facing off for the crown. Kick-off is scheduled for 19:00 (UTC+3).
Jordan’s recent journey has marked a significant step forward. Over the last 24 months, they finished second at the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023™ and secured qualification for their first-ever FIFA World Cup. That progress has placed them on the brink of a maiden major honor.
This tournament has reinforced that upward trajectory. Jamal Sellami’s team topped Group C with victories against the UAE, Egypt, and Kuwait before edging past Iraq and Saudi Arabia by identical 1-0 scorelines in the knockout rounds. The head coach now prepares to face his home nation, Morocco, while managing changes within his starting eleven.
Although Jordan have produced more goals than any other side on their route to the decider, their solidity at the back has been just as important, with only two goals allowed. Their semi-final display against Saudi Arabia highlighted that balance, as they restricted chances and now look to apply similar discipline against a Moroccan attack that was decisive against the UAE.
Morocco arrive equally motivated, aiming to secure a second Arab Cup title after lifting the trophy in 2012. Despite missing several Europe-based players, their campaign has not lost momentum. Confidence remains high, bolstered by a convincing 3-0 semi-final success and the team’s status as World Cup semi-finalists in Qatar in 2022.
Before the final, attention will turn to Lusail Stadium, where Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates meet in the match for third place at 14:00 (UTC+3). Both sides are determined to close their campaigns with a positive result.
Saudi Arabia will be eager to respond after falling short in the semi-finals, particularly in attacking areas that did not function as hoped against Jordan. With preparations continuing for the FIFA World Cup 2026, head coach Herve Renard is expected to focus on improving their cutting edge.
For the UAE, the semi-final exit was harsher than the scoreline suggested. Morocco’s second and third goals arrived only after Cosmin Olaroiu’s men pushed forward in search of an equalizer, reflecting a competitive contest that slipped away late on.
With both teams keen to make amends for recent setbacks, the playoff promises an intense encounter, as each looks to finish the tournament with renewed confidence.
