The match will bring together champions of the inaugural Gulf Club Champions League, Duhok SC, and Qatar’s Al Rayyan SC, winners of the tournament’s second edition.

AGCFF Secretary General Jassim Sultan Al Rumaihi led the delegation on a tour of the stadium, surveying the pitch, media and broadcast facilities, as well as security arrangements.

The delegation also met with Duhok SC officials to align on matchday operations and coordinate between organising committees, ensuring the event meets the highest standards.

Dr. Abdullah Jalal, President of Duhok SC, said the club is fully committed to delivering a successful Gulf Club Super Cup. He noted that all resources are being mobilised to meet AGCFF’s requirements and deliver the match to the standard of organisation that an event of its magnitude deserves. 

Wrapping up their visit, the delegation praised the level of readiness on the ground and the efforts of Duhok SC and local authorities. They further expressed their trust in the city’s ability to deliver an exceptional matchday experience, adding that the Gulf Club Super Cup marks an important step in elevating sports across the region.

As a new addition to the region’s club football calendar, the Gulf Club Super Cup marks an important milestone in the development of regional club competitions. The match is projected to draw significant fan interest and media attention across the region.

The third edition will feature the largest number of participating clubs in the tournament’s history since its launch, following the decision to increase the number of teams from eight to twelfth. This step reflects the tournament’s continued development and the expansion of participation among member associations, contributing to a higher level of competition and strengthening the tournament’s status across the region.

The participating clubs were selected in accordance with tournament regulations, based on their results in their local league competitions and the AFC Member Association Rankings for the 2026–2027 season. Accordingly, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Iraq, and Qatar were each allocated two places, while Oman, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Yemen received one place each.

The participating clubs are:

• Saudi Arabia: Al-Ettifaq SC, NEOM SC.
• United Arab Emirates: Al Nasr SC, Ajman SC.
• Qatar: Al Duhail SC, Qatar SC
• Iraq: Erbil SC, Al Zawraa SC.
• Oman: Al Shabab SC.
• Bahrain: Al Riffa SC.
• Kuwait: Kazma SC.
• Yemen: Shaab Hadhramaut SC.

The Arab Gulf Cup Football Federation approved increasing the number of participating clubs starting from the third edition. It also set 9 September as the date for the official tournament draw ceremony. 

It is worth noting that Iraq’s Duhok SC won the inaugural edition of the tournament, and Qatar’s Al Rayyan SC won the second edition.

BYD, the world’s leading manufacturer of New Energy Vehicles, has reached a new agreement to be the Official Automotive Partner of the Arab Gulf Cup Football Federation (AGCFF) and the Khaleeji 27 tournament.

The announcement marks BYD’s first official sponsorship of a major Gulf football event, and a significant milestone in the brand’s commitment to the region and expansion in one its key strategic markets. The partnership is based on strong alignment between Khaleeji 27 and BYD, which will take place in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, between 23 September and 7 October. One of the Gulf region’s most celebrated sporting events, it brings together teams from eight nations, along with their communities and generations of fans, through a shared passion for football.

BYD shares this spirit of connection and progress, using innovation and advanced new energy technology to create a better mobility experience for people across the world. Together, AGCFF and BYD aim to deliver a tournament experience that celebrates excellence, inspires fans and reflects the ambition of a region moving confidently towards the future.

As Official Automotive Partner, BYD will give fans, media and guests the opportunity to try its range of models in a dedicated on-site test-drive area. BYD will also engage with supporters through interactive displays and experiences in the official Fan Zone.

The agreement was formalised at a signing ceremony held in Doha, Qatar, on 29 June 2026 and attended by key executives and officials from Arab Gulf Cup Football Federation and BYD, including Mr. Jassim Sultan Al Rumaihi, Secretary General of the Arabian Gulf Cup Football Federation and Ms. Stella Li, BYD Executive Vice President.

On this occasion, Mr. Jassim Sultan Al Rumaihi, Secretary General of the Arabian Gulf Cup Football Federation, said: “This cooperation reflects mutual trust and a shared vision aimed at developing the tournament and strengthening its fan engagement. This partnership with BYD also underscores AGCFF’s ongoing commitment and continuous efforts to attract leading brands with significant influence in the region. BYD will join the sponsors of this prestigious Gulf sporting event to help deliver an exceptional edition of the tournament, given the noble values, diverse significance, marketing appeal, and immense popularity that it represents.

He added: “This partnership with BYD, a strategic partner distinguished by its commitment to supporting sports and major events, will play a fundamental role in supporting and advancing football at all levels. It will strengthen our efforts to enhance, elevate, and further develop this tournament while increasing its impact. We are excited about a successful tournament that reflects everyone’s passion for Gulf football.”

BYD Executive Vice President Stella Li commented: “We’re proud and excited to be the Official Automotive Partner of the Arab Gulf Cup Football Federation and Khaleeji 27. Football has a unique ability to bring people together, and Khaleeji is one of the strongest expressions of unity, passion and pride across the Gulf region. At BYD, we share this spirit of progress and excellence. Through innovation and our new-energy technologies, we’re committed to supporting a better future for the Middle East region and creating meaningful experiences for fans, customers and communities.”

BYD started as a battery manufacturer just over 30 years ago. It made its first New Energy Vehicle (NEV), the world’s first mass-produced plug-in hybrid, in 2008, and has since firmly established itself as the global NEV leader, with record sales of both EVs and Super Hybrid PHEVs, and a market presence in more than 120 countries and regions. It celebrated production of its 16 millionth NEV as recently as April 2026.

In 2025 BYD sold 4.6 million vehicles globally, with more than a million of them finding customers outside of China. BYD’s global headquarters are in Shenzhen, and it employs 120,000 engineers in research and development, pushing the boundaries and innovating with an average of 52 new patent applications every working day. 

About BYD Auto

Founded in 2003, BYD Auto is the automotive subsidiary of BYD, a multinational high-tech company devoted to leveraging technological innovations for a better life. Aiming to accelerate the green transition of the global transportation sector, BYD Auto focuses on developing pure electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles. The company has mastered the core technologies of the entire industrial chain of new energy vehicles, such as batteries, electric motors, electronic controllers, and automotive-grade semiconductors. It has witnessed in recent years significant technological advancements, including the Blade Battery, the Super Hybrid with DM Technology, the e-Platform 3.0, the CTB and iTAC technologies, the DiSus Intelligent Body Control System, and the Super e-Platform. The company is the world’s first carmaker to stop the production of fossil-fueled vehicles on EV shift and has topped the global new energy vehicle sales for 4 years in a row. 

The match will be hosted in Iraq’s Duhok Governorate on 13 August 2026, marking a new addition to Gulf football competitions. This newly introduced Super Cup represents an important milestone in the development of regional competitions and in strengthening their presence across the Gulf football scene. The event is also expected to attract wide public and media interest across the region.

On this occasion, Mr. Jassim Sultan Al Rumaihi, Secretary-General of the Federation, praised the efforts made by Duhok SC to complete all organisational arrangements for hosting the match, as well as the club’s commitment to presenting the fixture in a manner befitting the reputation of Gulf football. He also commended the support provided by the Iraqi Football Association in hosting the event.

Al Rumaihi added: “We are pleased to see Gulf competitions reach new horizons. The organisation of the Gulf Super Cup represents a significant milestone in the journey of football in the region and reflects the tangible progress it has achieved over recent years across all levels.”

Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Arnold said: “We have to believe in ourselves and play with courage. We have nothing to lose and everything to gain. We have to try to surprise the world.”

The Iraq coach also discussed the tactical measures his team has prepared to contain Erling Haaland, the Manchester City striker who topped the European qualifiers with 16 goals in eight matches, saying:

“The players have played many matches under immense pressure, and Haaland is an exceptional player. I am a great admirer of the way he plays; he is an outstanding number nine.”

He continued: “We have to trust ourselves. What we cannot do is be afraid to step onto the pitch and face these players. The players must be enthusiastic and ready to compete in one-on-one situations. I believe that is what Iraqis possess, they have a tremendous fighting spirit.”

The Saudi team’s coach expressed confidence in his players’ ability to achieve a positive result in their World Cup opener, scheduled for early Tuesday morning.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Donis said: “We will not approach the match with a defensive mindset. We want to play with confidence on the pitch. Every coach aims to win, and we are prepared for all possible scenarios.”

He added: “Before facing Argentina at the 2022 World Cup, not many people expected us to win. Today, we must believe that we can achieve victory again. We know our capabilities well, just as we understand the strengths of our opponent.”

The Green Falcons coach emphasized the importance of taking the tournament one match at a time, noting that while the Uruguay match is extremely important, the team must focus on each game individually.

Georgios Donis explained that limited preparation time represented a challenge for the coaching staff, as the domestic league concluded at the end of May, leaving little time for preparations. He noted that the team completed 12 training sessions and played several friendly matches, stressing that the most important aspect was the commitment shown by everyone involved and the strong performances delivered by the players throughout the preparation period.

He also highlighted the positive impact of the development of the Saudi Pro League on local players, stating: “The investments made in Saudi football have significantly improved the quality of the league. Saudi players now compete regularly against world-class names, so facing top international stars is no longer something new to them.”

Concluding his remarks, Donis said: “We understand that players reach the end of the season carrying a considerable physical workload, but they demonstrated great endurance during the friendly matches. I believe we will be fully prepared for the match against Uruguay.”

Following the Uruguay match, Saudi Arabia will face Spain on June 21 and Cape Verde on June 26 in Group H.

The top two teams from each group will qualify for the Round of 32, alongside the eight best third-placed teams across the tournament’s 12 groups

Switzerland appeared on course to claim all three points after taking the lead in the first half through a penalty converted by Breel Embolo in the 17th minute. However, Al Annabi salvaged a dramatic equaliser in the dying moments through defender Boualem Khoukhi in the fifth minute of stoppage time.

Earlier, Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina had also played out a 1-1 draw.

As a result, Qatar, Switzerland, Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina all finished the opening round with one point each.

The Qatar national team made a bright start to the match and nearly took the lead when Akram Afif capitalised on a defensive mistake, racing through on goal before firing from inside the penalty area. However, goalkeeper Gregor Kobel produced an excellent save in the second minute.

Switzerland gradually took control of the game. Ricardo Rodríguez delivered a cross from the left flank to Dan Ndoye, whose effort from inside the penalty area sailed over the bar in the 10th minute. Two minutes later, Manuel Akanji tested goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada with a strike from the edge of the area, but the Qatar goalkeeper reacted well.

Swiss pressure eventually paid off when the referee awarded a penalty after midfielder Remo Freuler was brought down by goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada. Breel Embolo stepped up and successfully converted the spot-kick in the 17th minute.

The tempo of the match dropped in the second half despite Switzerland’s attempts to extend its advantage. Juan Vargas tested the alertness of Abunada, while another effort from Embolo drifted wide of the target.

As the match approached its conclusion, Qatar found a dramatic equaliser. Boualem Khoukhi rose above the Swiss defence to meet a precise cross from Homam Al Amin and headed the ball into the net in the fifth minute of added time.

With the draw, Al Annabi collected its first-ever point in World Cup history, leaving all four teams in Group B level on one point following the earlier draw between Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina.

Qatar will now face two decisive Group B matches, taking on co-hosts Canada in Vancouver on June 18 before concluding the group stage against Bosnia and Herzegovina in Seattle on June 24.

Following the match, Qatar head coach Julen Lopetegui expressed his satisfaction with the performance of Al Annabi and the result, stating:

“Simply being here is a historic achievement in itself. Earning a point today against Switzerland, which I consider one of the best national teams in Europe due to its technical stability and the quality of players competing in the strongest leagues, is extremely important. To achieve that, you need special circumstances like those we experienced today. We managed to overcome difficult periods and did not lose our balance after falling behind, which proved decisive. In the end, we were rewarded with that goal that secured a historic point, one we had never achieved before.”

The top two teams from each group will qualify for the Round of 32, alongside the eight best third-placed teams across the tournament’s 12 groups.

Saudi Arabia finished top of Group B in the fourth round of the Asian qualifiers, securing qualification for a third consecutive World Cup finals appearance.

The Saudi national team will make its seventh World Cup appearance, aiming to replicate its previous achievements in opening matches.

Attention once again turns to the Green Falcons and their ambitions of achieving a new milestone that revives memories of the historic 1994 campaign and provides fans with more unforgettable moments, particularly as the group also features another global powerhouse in Spain.

Saudi Arabia places its hopes on Greek head coach Georgios Donis, 56, who assumed the role on April 23, succeeding Hervé Renard.

Donis brings extensive coaching experience in Saudi football, most recently serving as head coach of Al Khaleej FC in the Saudi Pro League. He has also previously managed Al Hilal, Al Fateh, and Al Wehda during a period spanning nearly a decade in Saudi football.

The Saudi national team will also look to its captain Salem Al Dawsari, a two-time AFC Player of the Year winner and Saudi Arabia’s joint all-time leading World Cup scorer alongside Sami Al Jaber with three goals, including his famous strike against Argentina at the World Cup Qatar 2022.

Al Dawsari contributed three goals and one assist during the qualifying campaign that secured Saudi Arabia’s place in the finals, and the Al Hilal star will be aiming to lead his country as far as possible in the tournament.

The Green Falcons will also rely on several key players, including veteran goalkeeper Mohammed Al Owais, Saleh Al Shehri, Mohamed Kanno, and Musab Al Juwayr.

Saudi Arabia produced one of the biggest upsets of the World Cup Qatar 2022 when it came from behind to secure a historic 2-1 victory over Argentina, who later went on to win the tournament, in its opening match.

The Green Falcons will be seeking to repeat a similar feat against another South American giant in Uruguay.

On the other hand, veteran coach Marcelo Bielsa guided Uruguay to fourth place in the South American qualifiers, securing the nation’s 15th World Cup appearance and its fifth consecutive qualification since its return to the global stage with a fourth-place finish at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

Uruguay, champions in 1930 and 1950, concluded its South American qualifying campaign in fourth place with 28 points, one point behind second-placed Ecuador and ten points behind leaders and defending champions Argentina, thereby securing direct qualification for the World Cup finals.

Marcelo Bielsa’s side is undergoing a significant generational transition following the retirement of several members of its golden generation. Federico Valverde, the Real Madrid star, leads a new generation aiming to surprise the world through the distinctive tactical approach of its experienced Argentine coach.

This encounter comes nearly eight years after the only previous World Cup meeting between the two teams, which took place in 2018 in Russia.

Uruguay entered that match following a late 1-0 victory over Egypt, while Saudi Arabia sought to recover from a 5-0 defeat to hosts Russia. The contest was decided by a single goal midway through the first half, when Luis Suárez converted from close range following a corner kick, securing Uruguay’s place in the Round of 16.

Following the Uruguay match, Saudi Arabia will face Spain on June 21 and Cape Verde on June 26 in Group H.

Speaking at the pre-match press conference held today, the Qatar coach said:

“We are proud to be part of this global event and look forward to writing a new chapter in the history of Qatari football. We have the ambition to achieve positive results, and we will strive to enjoy these moments while delivering our best performances against top-class national teams.”

The former Spain national team coach added:

“We have great respect for the Swiss national team, which is one of the strongest teams participating in the tournament. However, we fear no opponent, and we have prepared for this competition in the best possible way.”

Group B features Qatar, Switzerland, Canada, and Bosnia and Herzegovina. Earlier, Canada and Bosnia and Herzegovina played out a 1-1 draw in their opening group-stage encounter.

The reigning AFC Asian Cup champions will make their second consecutive World Cup appearance, benefiting from the experience gained during their debut participation when they hosted the 2022 edition and competed in a group featuring Ecuador, the Netherlands, and Senegal before exiting in the group stage.

Following their early exit from the group stage in the previous World Cup, the two-time reigning AFC Asian Cup champions are hoping to advance to the knockout stage, placing great importance on securing one of the qualification spots from Group B.

Leading the squad selected by Spanish head coach Julen Lopetegui is Akram Afif, AFC Player of the Year in 2019 and 2023. Afif, who has been a key figure in Qatar’s recent successes, is expected to play a pivotal role in the team’s World Cup campaign, alongside all-time leading scorer Almoez Ali, veteran captain Hassan Al Haydos, defensive duo Boualem Khoukhi and Pedro Miguel, goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada, and several other players who now possess valuable experience at major international tournaments.

At the same time, the appointment of Spanish coach Julen Lopetegui comes after successfully guiding Qatar to qualification for the World Cup, becoming only the second Spanish coach to lead the national team at a World Cup after Félix Sánchez, who managed Al Annabi at the previous edition.

Lopetegui has accumulated extensive coaching experience over many years, having led the Spanish national team between 2016 and 2018, while also managing major clubs including Real Madrid CF, Sevilla FC, FC Porto, and Wolverhampton Wanderers FC.

The Spanish coach has also contributed in restoring tactical discipline and confidence within the Qatar squad, demonstrating his ability to provide effective technical solutions and manage the finer details of the game.

Meanwhile, Switzerland will make its sixth consecutive World Cup appearance. The Swiss side has been eliminated in the Round of 16 in four of its previous five World Cup participations, and this match will mark the first-ever World Cup meeting between the two nations.

Since returning to the finals in 1994, reaching the Round of 16 has become an almost regular achievement for Switzerland, having done so in five of its last six appearances, although those campaigns have often ended dramatically.

Captain Granit Xhaka, formerly of Arsenal and Bayer Leverkusen and currently playing for Sunderland in the English Premier League, is Switzerland’s most experienced World Cup player. The 33-year-old midfielder has participated in three World Cup tournaments.

Switzerland also relies on several prominent players, including Johan Manzambi of Freiburg, Denis Zakaria of Monaco, Dan Ndoye of Nottingham Forest, and Zeki Amdouni of Burnley.

The Swiss national team has been coached by Murat Yakin since 2021. He guided the team to the Round of 16 at the Qatar 2022 World Cup before suffering a heavy 6–1 defeat to Portugal.

The San Francisco Bay Area Stadium, which will host the match, is located in the city of Santa Clara and is one of the newest venues participating in the tournament. The stadium is scheduled to host six World Cup matches, including five group-stage matches and one knockout-stage fixture.

Following the Switzerland match, Qatar will play two crucial Group B encounters against co-hosts Canada in Vancouver on June 18 and Bosnia and Herzegovina in Seattle on June 24.