KUWAIT CITY: Qatar’s national football team is eagerly anticipating their opening match of the 26th Gulf Cup, head coach Luis Garcia shared on Friday. The Asian champions will face the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Saturday in Group A, which also includes Kuwait and Oman. Group B features Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Yemen, and reigning champions Iraq, who claimed the title earlier this year in Basra. The Gulf Cup, a widely celebrated tournament, runs from December 21 to January 3. Expressing his enthusiasm, Garcia, the Spanish coach for Qatar, stated: “I’m truly excited to work with Al Annabi and have strong ambitions for this tournament. The first match is always challenging, but every game is vital. We have a young, determined team ready to deliver positive results.” Reflecting on Qatar’s recent loss to the UAE in World Cup qualifiers, Garcia emphasized the team's renewed focus. “Our morale is high. This tournament is deeply significant for the Qatari people, and we’re fully committed to performing at our best. The players are professionals who have moved on from the past. They are motivated and ready to give exceptional performances for Qatar.” Garcia also highlighted his commitment to addressing the team’s weaknesses. “We’ve worked on all aspects of the game—defense, attack, and midfield. My focus is on building a balanced, cohesive team capable of achieving strong results. Every match will be approached with the intensity of a final, keeping in mind Qatar’s history as Asian Cup champions.” Providing an update on star player Akram Afif’s delayed arrival in Kuwait, Garcia said: “I’ve known Akram for nine years and trust his professionalism and dedication. He is currently handling personal circumstances, and we are supporting him. If the situation allows, he’ll join us soon as part of the 26-player squad.” The Qatar-UAE match is set to kick off on Saturday at 10:00 pm.