Haydeer Abdulkareem faces four of his Al Nassr teammates in Iraq vs Saudi Arabia clash

The Iraq national team is set to face Saudi Arabia on Tuesday, September 29, in the final match of Group A of the Gulf Cup, having already secured qualification for the semi-finals. They are now scheduled for a match that will determine the group leader.

The match carries a different story beyond qualification and competition on the pitch, as Saudi clubs have gathered a number of players from both national teams, before the Gulf tournament puts them face to face in their national jerseys.

Iraqi midfielder Haydeer Abdulkareem is preparing to face four of his Al Nassr teammates who have been called up to the Saudi Arabia national team, led by Greek coach Georgios Donis.

The focus is on Abdullah Al-Hamdan, Abdullah Al-Khaibari, Abdulelah Al-Amri, and Nawaf Boushal, who share a current camaraderie with the Iraqi player, as their relationship within Al Nassr transforms into a potential international rivalry in one of the standout matches of Round 3.

On February 11, Haydeer Abdulkareem experienced one of the most significant moments alongside his Saudi teammates, as he started for Al Nassr against FK Arkadag in the first leg of the AFC Champions League Round of 16.

Abdullah Al-Hamdan scored the winning goal in the 19th minute, benefiting from a pass from Brazilian Angelo, while Haydeer Abdulkareem remained on the pitch until the 55th minute, before leaving and being replaced by Abdullah Al-Khaibari.

After months since that encounter, the three players are set for a different international meeting. Abdullah Al-Hamdan and Haydeer Abdulkareem will represent Saudi Arabia, while their Iraqi teammate will wear the jersey of Iraq.

Haydeer Abdulkareem joined Al Nassr from Al Zawraa in Iraq during the last winter transfer window, with a contract extending until the summer of 2028. He has played 3 official matches with the first team during the 2025-2026 season, including two matches against FK Arkadag and one appearance in the Saudi Pro League.

The participation in Gulf Cup 27 holds special significance for Haydeer Abdulkareem, as he has been selected by Australian coach Graham Arnold in the Iraq squad, marking his first call-up to the senior national team after previous experiences with youth teams. Facing his teammates at Al Nassr presents a unique opportunity for him to showcase his abilities on the international stage.