Iraq needs draw against Saudi Arabia to reach Gulf Cup semifinals as Arnold signals readiness

JEDDAH — Iraq plays Saudi Arabia on Tuesday needing a draw to reach the Gulf Cup semifinals, with Graham Arnold saying his side had studied the hosts’ high press and must tighten a defence that has conceded three goals in two games.

“The technical staff has worked on analyzing the Saudi team’s style of play precisely, and we know exactly how they play their matches, especially since we have faced them before,” Arnold said. “The Saudi team has strong players and high-level skills and applies a high press, while playing on its home ground and in front of its supporters will make the task more difficult.”

Saudi Arabia has already qualified from Group A with six points. Iraq has four, Oman one and Kuwait none, so a draw would put Iraq through. A defeat would leave it depending on Oman’s result against Kuwait.

Defence is the priority, Arnold said. “Addressing this issue represents a pivotal point for us. We did not work much on this aspect during the previous period because of our focus on the attacking side and possession of the ball, but we now have to improve the defensive system.” Players have been told not to let refereeing decisions distract them. “We understand the scale of the crowd and technical pressure we will face, but we are ready to deal with it,” he said.

Iraq drew 1-1 with Oman on Sept. 23, Mohammed Qasim scoring in the sixth minute before Nasser al-Rawahi equalised in the 67th, then beat Kuwait 3-2 on Saturday. Zidane Iqbal opened the scoring in the 52nd minute, Yousef Nasser equalised twice for Kuwait, Saif Rashid made it 2-1 in the 83rd and substitute Karrar Nabil won it in the ninth minute of stoppage time. Saudi Arabia beat Kuwait 1-0 and Oman 3-0.

The match kicks off at 8:30 p.m. at King Abdullah Sports City. “We play for our country and do not feel any pressure because of that,” Arnold said.