Rabat – Jordan defeated Saudi Arabia 1-0 today at Al Bayt Stadium to reach the Arab Cup final. They will face Morocco on Thursday, December 18, at Lusail Stadium in Qatar.
The match was controlled by Saudi Arabia in terms of possession, but Jordan were more efficient. Saudi had 68% of the ball and 7 shots, yet only one was on target. Jordan, with just 32% possession, managed 5 shots and all were on target.
The decisive moment came in the 66th minute. Mahmoud Al Mardi sent in a precise cross, and Nizar Al Rashdan scored with a header to give Jordan the lead.
Saudi Arabia tried to respond in the final minutes, but Jordan’s defense stayed compact and denied any clear chances.
The discipline and sharp finishing made the difference, as Jordan held on to secure their place in the final.
This result sets up a special clash. Jordan are coached by Jamal Sellami, while Morocco are led by Tarik Sektioui.
It means two Moroccan coaches will face each other in the final. Earlier in the tournament, Sektioui said, “Such a final would symbolize the strength of Moroccan football and the results of long‑term planning.” That statement has now become reality.
The final will shows how far Moroccan football has reached, not only through the national team’s success but also through coaches leading other nations.
Morocco are aiming for their second Arab Cup title since 2012, while Jordan are chasing their first.
Both teams showed different strengths in the semifinals. Morocco combined control and clinical counter-attacks to beat the UAE 3-0.
Jordan showed patience, discipline, and efficiency to overcome Saudi Arabia. The final promises to be a tough contest and a showcase of Moroccan coaching influence.
