Arnold: We will play against the team, not the fans, and our goal is to advance against Saudi Arabia

Iraq's coach Graham Arnold held a press conference ahead of the anticipated clash against Saudi Arabia in the final group stage match of the Gulf Cup 27, which will take place tomorrow, Tuesday, in Jeddah to determine the top spot in Group A.

Arnold has confirmed that preparations are complete for this crucial encounter, emphasizing that the mental aspect will be decisive in such big matches.

The Australian coach said: "The most important thing for us is to relax mentally and physically ahead of Saudi Arabia. We always want to give our best and achieve victories for the Iraqi fans; we must focus greatly to secure the win, and we all play for our people."

He added: "We need to improve some technical aspects and address the individual mistakes that appeared in the match against Kuwait. The pressure will be high on us, but we will focus heavily on ourselves and we have the ability and potential to achieve victory."

Regarding the technical side and absences, Arnold explained: "Akam Hashem's situation is still unclear regarding participation against Saudi Arabia; we will assess his condition in the final training session."

Akam Hashem praised star Ibrahim Bayesh, stating: "Bayesh possesses good qualities and can play in multiple positions, and he is a very important player in our system, solving the team's crisis in the last match."

Trent Alexander-Arnold spoke with great respect about the opponent: "We have enough information about the Saudi Arabia national team and we respect them greatly. Saudi Arabia plays with a high pressing style and has good players and a large fanbase, but we are ready for this challenge and are focusing on the mental aspect."

The coach stated: "We will play against the Saudi Arabia national team and not against the fans, and our goal is to deliver a great match away from other details. We have completed all the important preparations to advance to the next round and we approach each national team in a specific manner."

Iraq's coach concluded his remarks with a decisive message to his players: "We must have the mentality to face important national teams and achieve victory over them. Tomorrow, we must prove that we are capable of competing for the title."

Iraq need at least one point to guarantee their official qualification for the semi-finals, while a victory would ensure they top the group and avoid facing strong teams in the next round.