Article by Cosmin Nistor – Published Saturday, December 27, 2025, 10:33 / Updated Saturday, December 27, 2025 10:34
Appointed the United Arab Emirates coach in April, Cosmin Olăroiu (56 years old) achieved an important performance at the FIFA Arab Cup 2025, a competition that ended with a 3rd place for the national team he leads.
However, the minor final of the tournament, played in Doha, was abandoned at half-time after the pitch was flooded by torrential rain, and play could not be resumed.
Hamad Al-Meqbaali, about Cosmin Olăroiu: “His personality made the difference”
At the end of the competition, Hamad Al-Meqbaali (22 years old), the goalkeeper of the United Arab Emirates national team, spoke openly about the impact the Romanian coach had on the team.
“We dedicate the result obtained at the Arab Cup to the fans who stayed with the national team even in difficult moments, after missing the qualification for the World Cup. The supporters were with us at the matches played in Doha and I am glad that we made them happy.
But let's not forget Cosmin's role in the results obtained in Qatar. His personality made the difference, he helped us believe in ourselves. The man you see in front of the cameras is very different from the man we see in the locker room. In our relationship, Cosmin is like an older brother. I dedicate to him everything we achieved at the Arab Cup and I hope he stays with us”the goalkeeper declared, according to sport.ro.
Cosmin Olăroiu's career path
Having reached the age of 56, Cosmin Olăroiu left Romania in 2007, when he signed with Al-Hilal, after two years spent on the FCSB bench. Previously, in 2002, he had a short spell as a coach at Steaua Bucharest.
Throughout his career, “Oli” also trained: National Bucharest, Steaua Bucharest, Politehnica Timișoara, Al-Hilal, Al-Sadd, Al Ain, Shabab Al-Ahli, Jiangsu Suning, Sharjah, Saudi Arabia National.
