Saudi Arabia Beats Palestine 2-1 in Extra-Time to Reach Arab Cup Semifinals

Palestine’s historic run at the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup ended late Thursday after Saudi Arabia won 2-1 in extra time. The quarterfinal match took place in Lusail, Qatar, and drew large crowds from both nations. Saudi Arabia will now move on to the semifinals. The main keyword for this article is Saudi Arabia.

According to Reuters, this was Palestine’s first-ever trip to the Arab Cup knockout round. The team entered the match with strong public support and clear momentum. But Saudi Arabia held firm in key moments and made the decisive play in extra time.

Saudi Arabia Advances After Close Quarterfinal Battle

Saudi Arabia started the match with more control. The team kept the ball and pushed forward in short waves. Palestine held their shape and waited for counterattacks. Both sides looked tense in the first half.

The match opened up after the break. Reuters reported that Saudi Arabia won a penalty in the 58th minute after a foul inside the box. Firas Al-Buraikan scored from the spot with a calm finish. Saudi Arabia moved ahead 1-0.

Palestine answered fast. Oday Dabbagh scored six minutes later with a sharp strike from inside the area. The goal lifted the Palestine fans and brought new life to the match. The score moved to 1-1.

The final minutes of regular time were tight. Both teams had small chances. Saudi Arabia struck the bar once. VAR checked two big moments for Palestine but made no changes. The match went into extra time with tension high on both sides.

The winning moment came in the 115th minute. Mohamed Kanno scored with a low header after a cross from the right wing. It was a simple finish but a decisive one. Saudi Arabia held the lead until the final whistle.

Palestine’s Historic Run Inspires Fans Across the Region

Palestine’s journey became one of the main stories of the tournament. The team reached the quarterfinals for the first time. Their strong play in the Asian Cup earlier this year carried into this event. BBC News noted their growing confidence and improved teamwork.

The loss will hurt, but the larger impact remains clear. Palestine proved they can compete at a high level. The team gained new fans across the region. Many supporters praised their fight, skill, and discipline.

Saudi Arabia now looks ahead. The team will face either Jordan or Iraq in the semifinals. The coaching staff has stressed focus and calm during the next stage. Saudi Arabia hopes to reach the final and challenge for the title.

Morocco also advanced on Thursday after a 1-0 win over Syria. AP News reported that Morocco scored late and then held on with ten men. The result means Morocco will face either Algeria or the UAE in the next round.

Thought you’d like to know-

Q1: Who won the Saudi Arabia vs Palestine match?

Saudi Arabia won 2-1 after extra time. The winning goal came in the 115th minute. Palestine played well but could not score again.

Q2: Why was this match important?

It was Palestine’s first quarterfinal in Arab Cup history. Saudi Arabia needed the win to reach the semifinals. Both teams saw this as a major moment.

Q3: Who scored the goals?

Firas Al-Buraikan scored for Saudi Arabia from the penalty spot. Oday Dabbagh scored for Palestine. Mohamed Kanno scored the extra-time winner.

Q4: What happens next for Saudi Arabia?

Saudi Arabia will play in the semifinals. The team will face either Jordan or Iraq. The match will be held next week.

Q5: How did Palestine perform in the tournament?

Palestine reached the quarterfinals for the first time. The team showed strong teamwork and spirit. Many fans praised their progress.