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The qualifying round of the Dubai Gold Cup 2026, a prestigious 20-goal polo tournament, concludes on Saturday with two crucial matches at the Habtoor Polo Resort and Club. The first match features a highly anticipated early final between Emirates team, led by Her Highness Sheikha Maitha bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and Habtoor team led by Mohammed Al Habtoor, while the second match pits Ghantoot against Jangiri in a battle for semifinal spots.
Both matches will determine which teams advance to the semifinals scheduled for Wednesday and ultimately to the final on Saturday, February 14. According to tournament organizers, the Dubai Gold Cup qualifying round has showcased exceptional talent and high-caliber competition throughout the preliminary stages.
Emirates Team Enters Match With Strong Momentum
The Emirates team brings impressive form into Saturday’s clash, having achieved significant cohesion in their recent performances. The squad comprises Her Highness Sheikha Maitha bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Salvador Jauretche (5 goals), Lucas Monteverde Junior (9 goals), and Rosendo Torreguitar (6 goals), according to the team roster.
Additionally, the presence of the talented Monteverde poses a significant threat to Habtoor’s defensive line. The young player has demonstrated exceptional skills that could prove decisive in this critical qualifying match for the Dubai Gold Cup tournament.
Habtoor Team Boasts Formidable Lineup
Meanwhile, the Habtoor team fields a powerful roster including Mohammed Al Habtoor, Solari (4 goals), Olla (8 goals), and Bayugar (8 goals). The team’s composition confirms they possess the credentials and experience necessary to compete at the highest level in this prestigious polo competition.
However, the match promises to be fiercely contested as both teams feature players with superior skills and exceptionally fast, powerful horses. The quality of horsemanship and tactical execution will likely determine the outcome of this early final showdown.
Ghantoot Seeks Redemption Against Confident Jangiri
In contrast, the second qualifying match of the Dubai Gold Cup presents Ghantoot team with an opportunity to rediscover their form. Despite fielding strong players alongside Ali Al Murri, including Pablo Yrienty (6 goals), Marcos Araya (7 goals), and Juan Jauretche (7 goals), the team’s performances have been puzzling according to observers.
The Ghantoot squad aims to restore their reputation and secure a semifinal berth through improved coordination and execution. Their professional roster suggests capability, yet inconsistent performances have raised questions about the team’s tactical approach and match readiness.
Jangiri Team Shows Promise After Recent Victory
The Jangiri team, led by Mohammed Jangiri and featuring Higuey (8 goals), Perez (9 goals), and Castagnola (3 goals), enters with elevated confidence following their deserved victory over Habtoor. Reports indicate the team displayed cohesion and tactical discipline that had not been fully evident in earlier matches.
Furthermore, their recent performance suggests the squad possesses untapped potential and strategic weapons yet to be fully deployed in tournament play. This momentum could prove advantageous as they face a Ghantoot side searching for consistency in the polo tournament’s qualifying stages.
The outcomes of Saturday’s matches will finalize the semifinal brackets, with the winners advancing to compete on Wednesday. Tournament officials have not yet confirmed specific match times for the semifinal round, though the championship final remains scheduled for February 14.
