Oman, Kuwait share honours in 26th Gulf Cup opener

Muscat: Oman and hosts Kuwait played out a 1-1 draw in their Group A clash as the 26th Gulf Cup kicked off with an exciting but evenly matched opener at Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium on Saturday night.

Both teams had their moments to seize victory, but a combination of resolute defending and wasteful finishing saw them settle for a point apiece.

Kuwait drew first blood in the 34th minute when Yousef Al Sulaiman leapt above Oman’s defender and captain Mohammed Al Musalami to deliver a towering and powerful header that beat goalkeeper Ibrahim Al Mukhaini. The stadium erupted in celebration as the hosts seemed poised to take control of the match.

Oman, however, responded just before halftime. In the 43rd minute, Issam Al Sabhi capitalised on a deft pass from Jameel Al Yahmadi, slotting the ball home with a clinical finish to level the scores and quiet the home crowd.

The second half saw opportunities for both sides to snatch a win, but poor finishing proved costly. Oman’s best chance came in the 74th minute when a cross from the right flank found Motaz Abdraboh and Abdul Al Mushaifri miss the golden opportunity to tap the ball in, letting Kuwait off the hook.

Kuwait, too, had their moments, but Ibrahim Al Mukhaini stood tall in Oman’s goal, making crucial saves to deny the hosts a late winner. The game ended with both teams sharing the spoils, a fair reflection of the contest.

The Gulf Cup holds special significance for Oman in Kuwait, who last lifted the trophy during the 23rd edition in Kuwait in 2017-18 under the late Dutch coach Pim Verbeek. That victory marked their second title, following their maiden triumph in 2009 in Muscat.

Oman, under coach Rashid Jaber, now turn their focus to their remaining Group A fixtures against Qatar (December 24) and the UAE (December 27). With every point vital in a competitive group, Oman will look to sharpen their finishing and build on their opening performance.

Group B, meanwhile, features defending champions Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, and Yemen, promising more high-stakes action as the tournament unfolds.