Monday 06 / January / 2025
MUSCAT: Oman’s pursuit of their third Arabian Gulf Cup crown ended in heartbreak as Bahrain claimed a dramatic 2-1 victory in the final at the Jaber Al Ahmed International Stadium in Kuwait on Saturday. Despite a valiant effort, the Red Warriors were denied glory in a pulsating contest, settling for a second consecutive runners-up finish.
For Bahrain, it was their second title, the previous coming in 2019 in Qatar.
Oman took an early lead in the 17th minute, capitalising on a set-piece opportunity. Ali Al Busaidi’s pinpoint corner found Abdulrahman Al Mushaifri, whose towering header soared past Bahrain’s goalkeeper Ebrahim Lutfalla. This advantage held until the halftime whistle, as Oman withstood Bahrain’s relentless attacks.
However, the second half saw Bahrain rally with renewed intensity. In the 79th minute, Jameel Al Yahmadi’s challenge on Bahrain’s Mohamed Marhoon resulted in a penalty—a decision that sparked debate among spectators. Marhoon calmly slotted the ball into the net, levelling the score.
Bahrain struck again just two minutes later. Marhoon, at the heart of the action once more, delivered a dangerous cross that Oman captain Mohammed Al Musalami inadvertently redirected into his own net. The own goal proved decisive, as Bahrain held their ground in the final moments to secure their second Gulf Cup title.
The loss marked Oman’s first defeat in the tournament, a campaign under coach Rasheed Jaber that had seen them progress unbeaten to the final. They showcased resilience throughout the competition, including a strong defensive display and moments of attacking brilliance.
In the opening exchanges of the final on Saturday, Bahrain’s Mohamed Al Romaihi created a golden opportunity, but teammate Mahdi Al Humaidan failed to convert the cross. Minutes later, Al Humaidan’s powerful shot was superbly saved by Oman’s dependable goalkeeper Faiz Al Rusheidi.
Oman’s goal was a textbook example of clinical execution from a set piece, but Bahrain’s persistence paid off in the latter stages. Oman’s forward line continued to threaten, with Jameel Al Yahmadi and Abdulrahman Al Mushaifri creating chances, but Bahrain’s defence stood firm.
The second half was marred by a flurry of yellow cards as tensions escalated. Oman’s Arshad Al Alawi and Bahrain’s Al Romaihi were booked early in the half, reflecting the fierce contest on the pitch.
Injury disruptions further complicated Oman’s challenge, with Ahmed Al Khamisi forced off in the 58th minute and Al Rusheidi replaced during injury time after a heroic save.
Despite their valiant efforts, Oman couldn’t find an equaliser. Bahrain’s disciplined defence and composure under pressure ensured their victory, leaving Oman to rue missed opportunities and moments of misfortune.
While the Red Warriors fell short of the ultimate prize, their journey to the final underscored their quality and fighting spirit.
