Saudi Arabia have received a major boost before their Gulf Cup 27 semi-final against Qatar, with Al-Hilal defender Hassan Tambakti declared fit to play.
The teams meet on Saturday at Alinma Stadium in Jeddah, with a place in the final at stake. Tambakti took part in Saudi Arabia’s full team training on Friday after missing their 2-0 victory over Iraq in the final group-stage match on Tuesday.
The Saudi national team confirmed on 2 October that preparations had been completed for the meeting with Qatar.
Tambakti’s return provides welcome defensive cover for Saudi Arabia, who have recently been affected by a number of injuries. Goalkeeper Nawaf Al-Aqidi, defender Hassan Kadesh, full-back Zakaria Hawsawi and midfielder Alaa Al-Haji are among those who have been unavailable.
Saudi Arabia have made a perfect start to Gulf Cup 27, winning all three of their group matches against Kuwait, Oman and Iraq. They have also kept a clean sheet in each game and are yet to concede in the tournament.
