Doha: Saudi Arabia booked their place in the FIFA Arab Cup 2025 semifinals with a thrilling 2–1 extra-time victory over Palestine on Thursday, following Morocco’s earlier progression to the last four. The quarterfinal clash at Qatar’s Al-Rayyan Stadium delivered tense moments, VAR drama, and a valiant exit for Palestine, who have made a historic run in the tournament.
The first half saw both sides struggle to create clear-cut chances, with strong defensive setups keeping the score goalless. The deadlock was finally broken in the 55th minute when a foul in the penalty area handed Saudi Arabia a spot-kick. Faris Al-Buraikan calmly dispatched the penalty, sending the Palestinian goalkeeper the wrong way and giving the Green Falcons the lead.
Palestine responded with determination and skill. A pinpoint cross from Ameed Sawafta found Oday Dabbagh, who slotted a composed right-footed finish into the bottom corner, restoring parity and igniting hopes of a dramatic comeback. Tensions escalated late in the second half when a Saudi goal in the 92nd minute was ruled offside, followed by a VAR decision denying a last-minute penalty appeal, sending the match into extra time.
The decisive moment came in the 115th minute, when Mohammed Kanno rose to meet a perfectly timed cross from Al-Dosari with a powerful header, securing a 2–1 victory for Saudi Arabia and sending their fans into celebration.
Despite the defeat, Palestine’s players and coaching staff received widespread admiration for their sportsmanship, accepting the result with grace and dedicating their historic Arab Cup journey to Palestinians everywhere. Their performance throughout the tournament has been hailed as a milestone in Palestinian football history.
Saudi Arabia will now face the winner of Jordan vs. Iraq in the semifinals, while Morocco awaits the winner of Algeria vs UAE in the other bracket.
Key Moments:
55’ – Al-Buraikan converts penalty, Saudi 1–0 Palestine.
61’ – Oday Dabbagh levels for Palestine.
92’ – Saudi goal ruled offside; late VAR penalty denied.
115’ – Mohammed Kanno heads Saudi Arabia into semifinals.
The Green Falcons’ hard-fought victory highlights their growing stature in regional football and sets up an eagerly anticipated clash in the semifinals.