Oman’s players celebrate after scoring their first goal against Saudi Arabia, yesterday. REUTERS
Doha: Hosts Iraq and Oman entered the semi-finals of the 25th Arabian Gulf Cup after winning their respective final Group A matches in Basra, yesterday.
With both the games taking place simultaneously, Oman knocked out Saudi Arabia 2-1 at Al-Minaa Olympic Stadium while Iraq trounced Yemen 5-0 at the Basra International Stadium. The hosts edged Oman on goal difference to top group after both teams ended the first stage with seven points apiece.
Harib Al Saadi scored the winner for two-time champions Oman six minutes before time after Turki Al Ammar (41st minute) cancelled Arshad Al Alawi’s 34th minute strike for the Falcons. Saudi Arabia fielded a second string side in the tournament.
The Lions of Mesopotamia, meanwhile, displayed a ruthless show to send Yemen packing without a point.
The hosts opened the scoring through Mustafa Nadhim in the 40th minute before scoring four more goals in the second half. After Amjad Attwan scored Iraq’s second goal in 64th minute, Aymen Hussein completed his brace in a matter of seconds netting his first goal from the spot in 74th minute before scoring his second goal in the next minute. Hussein Ali Al Saedi wrapped up a dominant victory two minutes before time.
Oman and Iraq will await the outcome of today’s last two Group B matches to know their opponents in the semi-finals to be played on January 16. Defending champions Bahrain are favourites to top Group B with Qatar, Kuwait and the UAE also in contention for the semis.
