Bahrain vs Yemen - Gulf Cup of Nations

Bahrain prepare to host Yemen at the home ground on September 30, 2026, with both sides eager to assert their credentials and claim a result that could define their Gulf Cup of Nations season. Catch up with all the action from Chelsea's pre-season clash with AC Milan.

Both Bahrain and Yemen will be eager to build momentum when they meet in Gulf Cup of Nations. Bahrain are mired in a difficult campaign, LLLLL over their last five and a paltry win rate of 0% painting a bleak picture. It has been a wretched run on the road for the visitors, LLWWW in their last five and a win rate of 0% that explains their lowly standing. The contrast in attacking output — 0 versus 0 goals per game — adds an extra layer of intrigue. Fulham are starting to do some business now that Alvaro Arbeloa's feet are under the table as new head coach.

The tactical battle could prove decisive. Bahrain may lean on their home advantage to dictate the tempo, but Yemen have shown they can be dangerous when allowed to play on their own terms. Andoni Iraola, like Luis Enrique, is a coach who demands that his players press high.

Neither side is short on individuals capable of tilting the balance, and the duel between the two squads' chief creators could prove particularly pivotal. How each side deals with the other's danger men — and who takes their chances when they come — will be central to the outcome. It is claimed that Old Trafford bosses were told that the Shakhtar ace holds the 'potential to develop into a top-level centre-forward.' It was also said that Elias would slot into United's system well.

Current market odds — Bahrain at 1.6000, the draw at 3.5000, Yemen at 4.8000 — point to a competitive affair. The pricing reflects Bahrain's home advantage and the form they carry into the contest. On balance, Bahrain look well-placed to claim all three points, and a 2-1 home win would not come as a surprise. With positions in the Gulf Cup of Nations table to defend and momentum to chase, neither side can afford to leave anything in the tank. Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video player Liverpool's midfield wasn't great last year but I expect Florian Wirtz to have a better season, 100 per cent.