Oman Defeats Saudi Arabia to Reach Arabian Gulf Cup Final
A breathtaking victory seals Oman’s place in their second consecutive Gulf Cup final.
In a heart-stopping clash, Oman’s Red Warriors defied the odds, securing a thrilling 2-1 victory against Saudi Arabia in the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup semi-final.
Playing with ten men for over an hour, Oman showcased sheer resilience and determination to book their second consecutive final appearance.
The match, held at the Jaber Al Mubarak Al Hamad Stadium in Kuwait, proved to be a perfect way for Omani fans to close out the year, blending drama, grit, and pure football magic.
Early Drama and a Stunning Comeback
Saudi Arabia launched into the game with early aggression, nearly scoring in the third minute, but Oman’s captain and goalkeeper, Faiz Al Rusheidi, pulled off a crucial save. The Saudis kept pressing, with Marwan Al Sahafi missing a golden opportunity in the 25th minute.
The game’s turning point came in the 34th minute when Omani forward Al Mandhar Al Alawi received a controversial red card for a tackle on Salem Al Dawsari. Reduced to ten men, Oman faced immense pressure but held their ground with unwavering composure.
The second half belonged to Oman. Arshad Al Alawi delivered a jaw-dropping free-kick in the 74th minute, igniting celebrations across the stadium. Building on their momentum, Ali Al Busaidi extended the lead in the 84th minute after a brilliant assist from Abdulrahman Al Mushaifri.
Saudi Fightback and Oman’s Defensive Masterclass
Saudi Arabia struck back in the 87th minute, with Mohammed Kanno narrowing the gap to 2-1. The final minutes were a test of nerves, with Oman’s defence, led by the exceptional Al Rusheidi, weathering relentless Saudi attacks during a tense 14 minutes of injury time.
A Chance for Redemption
This victory marks Oman’s sixth Gulf Cup final appearance, and they now set their sights on claiming their third title. Scheduled for January 4, the final pits them against either Bahrain or hosts Kuwait.
For coach Rasheed Jaber, the triumph is a testament to his team’s tactical adaptability and unshakable spirit. “Playing with ten men and winning shows our character,” he said.
A Nation Rejoices
For Omani fans, this wasn’t just football—it was national pride on full display. The jubilant celebrations in the stands and back home reflected the country’s unity and unwavering support for the Red Warriors.
With their eyes on the ultimate prize, Oman’s journey to the Gulf Cup final has already etched itself into football history as a tale of resilience, strategy, and heart.
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