Bahrain Learn Arab Cup Path

Bahrain now know the route they must navigate at the FIFA Arab Cup 2025 after the full Group D schedule was released yesterday, just a day after the national team secured qualification with a 1-0 playoff win over Djibouti in Doha.

The kingdom will face Iraq on December 3 at 5:30pm at Stadium 974, followed by defending champions Algeria on December 6 at 4:30pm at Khalifa National Stadium, and conclude their group campaign against Sudan on December 9 at 8pm at Education City Stadium. The fixtures give Bahrain a clear framework for preparation as they aim to build on a mixed year of highs and lows.

The national team comes into the Arab Cup buoyed by their Gulf Cup success in January, yet the squad also carries the disappointment of missing out on FIFA World Cup 2026 qualification and a string of underwhelming friendly results, highlighting the challenge that lies ahead.

Head coach Dragan Talajic acknowledged the duality of expectations, noting that the team will carry both the pride of past achievements and the pressure to succeed on the Arab stage. “We have proven we can compete at the highest level in the region, but the Arab Cup will test us in new ways,” he said.