The FIFA Arab Cup final in Doha promises far more than silverware. When Jordan and Morocco walk out at the Khalifa International Stadium on Wednesday evening, they carry narratives of momentum, validation and continental pride.
Jordan arrive with more to prove, though Morocco are hardly short of motivation. For Al Nashama, this is a chance to crown a remarkable rise with a first major trophy. For the Atlas Lions, it is about reaffirming their standing as one of the region’s most consistent forces.
Jordan’s Golden Generation At The Crossroads
The past 24 months have marked a meteoric ascent for Jordan. Runners-up at the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023, they recently secured qualification for their maiden FIFA World Cup appearance at the 2026 finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Now, just one match separates this so-called golden generation from history. Victory in Doha would not only deliver a first major title but also underline Jordan’s transformation from regional outsiders to genuine contenders.
Jamal Sellami’s side have been flawless so far. They topped Group C with victories over the UAE, Egypt and Kuwait before grinding out consecutive 1–0 wins against Iraq and Saudi Arabia in the knockout rounds. Those narrow margins reflected a growing maturity and belief.
Sellami’s Emotional Reunion And Clear Demand
The final carries personal significance for Sellami, who faces his native Morocco with the title on the line. Despite fitness concerns forcing him to reshuffle his starting eleven, the Jordan coach expects his players to rise to the occasion.
We hope to end our journey with a victory. Thursday’s match will be a tough one, bringing together two of the best teams participating in this tournament.
“We will face a strong and experienced team with a range of technical qualities that make them contenders for the title. However, we also possess qualities that allow us to close the gap and make us the favourites to win the championship.
“Playing in a final is meaningless unless we win. The Jordanian national team has previously played in the Asian Cup final in Doha but did not win. Now, we are required to win this final.”
Defence First, Belief Always
Jordan’s campaign has been built on balance. They are the tournament’s top scorers with 10 goals, yet their defensive discipline has been just as decisive, conceding only twice.
Their semi-final victory over Saudi Arabia showcased tactical clarity and resilience, successfully neutralising Bervé Renard’s plans. A similar approach will be vital against a Moroccan attack that looked ruthless in a 3–0 semi-final win over the UAE.
Morocco’s Quiet Authority And Unfinished Business
Morocco are chasing a second arab cup title after lifting the trophy in 2012. Since the competition’s revival under fifa in 2021, the atlas lions have played with confidence, even without several Europe-based stars.
Africa’s only semi-finalists at the 2022 World Cup have conceded just once in this campaign, an own goal against Comoros, while scoring eight and creating a steady stream of chances. Their blend of structure and technical quality makes them formidable opponents.
There is, however, a fitness concern over midfielder Bilal El Khannouss, who picked up a knock in the previous round.
Third-Place Pride At Stake
Earlier in the day, the focus shifts to Lusail Stadium, where the UAE face Saudi Arabia in the third-place play-off at 2pm local time. For both sides, it is an opportunity to salvage pride after semi-final disappointment.
UAE head coach Cosmin Olăroiu stressed the importance of finishing strongly. “It was a tough tournament where we played many matches in a short period of time. We are now in the final match and our focus is on achieving victory,” he said.
Reaching this stage of the tournament is a positive thing in itself. Losing a semi-final has a psychological impact, but our goal is to secure third place while preparing a strong team with valuable experience for the future.
As night falls in Doha, however, the spotlight will be firmly on Jordan and Morocco, with belief, momentum and regional supremacy hanging in the balance.
