The Peninsula
Manaf Younis scored an extra time winner as hosts Iraq clinched the 25th Arabian Gulf Cup title after a 3-2 win over Oman in the final, marred by stampede outside the Basra International Stadium in Basra yesterday.
One person was killed and dozens injured after stampede broke out hours before the final as thousands of fans including many without tickets had gathered outside the 65,000-seat venue to see the home team seeking their first title since 1988.
As Iraqi organisers decided to hold the final as per schedule, the title contenders played out a gripping clash with Younis’ header off a lofty free kick by Amjad Attwan in 120+2 minutes giving Iraq their fourth Arabian Gulf Cup trophy.
The Lions of Mesopotamia had taken the lead with a 24th minute strike by Ibrahim Bayesh, with Salaah Al Yahyaei levelling the score for Oman with a spot kick in 90+10 minutes, taking the final into extra time.
Attwan converted a penalty in 116th minute to put Iraq ahead again but Oman pulled back the equaliser once more with a goal from Omar Al Malki, three minutes later.
As referee blew the final whistle four minutes after Younis’ goal, fans at the packed venue erupted in joy celebrating country’s first Gulf Cup triumph in 25 years.
Iraq coach Jesus Casas praised his team for a strong show following incidents ahead of the final.
“The players were not comfortable after what happened but they showed strong character and played like lions to make people happy,” he said.
“We overcame many challenges to win this tournament. There were few people who believed in the players but I had trust in them. They have a very good future,” the coach added.
Iraq remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, beating Asian champions Qatar in the semi-final after finishing top in Group A.
Top-notch football returned to Iraq – affected by war, invasions and instability – for the first time since 1979 as Basra hosted the eight-nation tournament at two venues including the newly-built Al Minaa Olympic Stadium.
Oman coach Branko Ivankovic, meanwhile, said his team benefited from the tournament.
“Congratulations to Iraq on winning and hosting the tournament. We did not face problems here during our stay in Basra,” said Ivankovic.
“We enjoyed the final in front of so many fans. The players gained a good experience in the tournament which will help them in future.”