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The UAE team led by Her Highness Sheikha Maitha bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has secured their place in the Dubai Gold Cup 2026 final, scheduled for Saturday at the Habtoor Polo Resort and Club. The team will face off against Dubai Wolves by Zehra, captained by Habtoor Al Habtoor, in what promises to be an exciting conclusion to the prestigious polo tournament.
The qualification came after an intense semifinal match that saw the UAE team overcome Bangash in a dramatic encounter that required extra time. According to reports, the match ended with a golden goal that sealed the UAE team’s victory and their advancement to the championship finale.
Thrilling UAE Team Comeback Secures Final Spot
The semifinal between the UAE team and Bangash featured a remarkable turnaround. Bangash started strong, taking an early three-to-one lead in the opening period. However, the UAE squad responded with determination in the second chukker, scoring five consecutive goals to shift momentum in their favor.
By the end of the third chukker, the UAE team had extended their advantage to 8-5 after both teams added two goals each. The match appeared to be heading toward a straightforward victory for the Emirates side.
Late Drama Forces Extra Time
Bangash mounted a spirited comeback, utilizing penalty conversions to level the score. The fourth chukker ended tied at 10-10, while the fifth chukker concluded at 12-12, forcing the match into extra time. In the additional period, Salvador delivered the decisive golden goal that clinched the UAE team’s passage to the Dubai Gold Cup final.
Meanwhile, the second semifinal showcased a dominant performance from Dubai Wolves by Zehra against Jahangiri. The Wolves established control from the opening chukker, building a 3-1 lead that set the tone for the remainder of the polo match.
Dubai Wolves Dominate Path to Dubai Gold Cup Final
Throughout all five chukkers, Dubai Wolves by Zehra maintained their advantage despite persistent efforts from Mohammed Jahangiri and his teammates. The Jahangiri squad attempted numerous defensive strategies to contain the Wolves’ attacking play, but these efforts proved unsuccessful.
The match concluded with Dubai Wolves by Zehra securing a 10-7 victory, earning them their place opposite the UAE team in the championship decider. The result demonstrated the team’s consistency and offensive prowess throughout the tournament.
Championship Showdown at Habtoor Polo Club
The Dubai Gold Cup 2026 final will bring together two formidable teams at the Habtoor Polo Resort and Club facilities. Additionally, the match represents a significant moment for UAE polo, featuring high-profile leadership from both competing sides.
The tournament has showcased exceptional polo talent and competitive spirit throughout its preliminary rounds. In contrast to earlier matches, both finalists demonstrated their championship credentials through different paths—one through a dramatic comeback and extra-time heroics, the other through dominant, controlled play.
Polo enthusiasts and sports fans are anticipating an exciting final between these two accomplished teams. The championship match on Saturday will determine which squad claims the prestigious Dubai Gold Cup trophy for 2026.
Authorities have not yet announced specific match timing details for the final, though the event is confirmed for Saturday at the Habtoor Polo Resort and Club. The outcome will crown either the UAE team or Dubai Wolves by Zehra as tournament champions.
