Who is closest to the Gulf 27 title? Numbers put 3 teams in the running

Ahead of the start of the 'Gulf Cup 27' in Jeddah, figures reveal a hot race for the title, with Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Iraq emerging as the standout teams based on rankings, market value, and Gulf history.

The Green advance in the rankings among the eight teams, now sitting at 58th in the world. They also hold the highest market value at €35.33 million, with an average age of 29 years, in addition to three Gulf titles.

The Qatar national team comes in at 59th in the world, with a market value of €20.25 million and an average age of 29 years. The Maroons have won three titles, which they claimed in 1992, 2004, and 2014.

Iraq ranks 63rd in the world, with a market value of €17.80 million and an average age of 26 years, having won four Gulf titles, the most recent being the victory in Gulf 25.

The Kuwaiti national team holds an exceptional historical weight, boasting a record of 10 titles and having participated in all editions, despite being ranked 133rd in the world and having a market value of €5.15 million.

The UAE is ranked 68th in the world with a market value of €29.05 million, while Oman and Bahrain each hold two titles. Bahrain's most recent title came in the previous edition, while Yemen has yet to win a trophy.

These indicators place Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Iraq in the forefront of the title race; the Green Falcons have home advantage, a strong fan base, a high ranking, and market value, while Qatar boasts three titles and Iraq has four titles along with recent experience.