Salim Cheniouni
A
thrilling match between defending champions Oman and Kuwait came to a close
with Oman beating Kuwait 2-1 in one of the most exciting matches of the 24th
Arabian Gulf Cup so far.
Oman
started off strong in the first half creating chance after chance. In the 13th
minute Omani striker Muhsen Al-Ghassani was brought down by Kuwaiti left-back Meshari
Ghanam. Qatari referee Khamis Al Marri resorted to the VAR pointing to the
penalty spot moments later. Abdulaziz Al-Muqbali took the penalty giving Oman
the lead in the 16th minute. Oman were rewarded a second penalty 15
minutes later in the 31st minute, converted calmly by Abdulaziz
Al-Muqbali for his second goal.
In
the second half Kuwait came out rejuvenated with an intense tempo causing all
sorts of trouble for the Omani defense. Kuwait's 18 shots on goal
throughout the game were rewarded by a fantastic solo goal after Yousef Nasser’s
shot found the back of the net.
Oman
now leapfrog Kuwait in the Group B standings with 4 points while Kuwait remain
on 3 points. Kuwait take on Bahrain on the 2nd of December, meanwhile Oman face Saudi
Arabia at the same time 8 PM Doha Time.