U-23 Gulf Cup: Qatar, Saudi Arabia Share Points

2025-12-12 04:18:34

(MENAFN- The Peninsula) The Peninsula

Doha, Qatar: Qatar and Saudi Arabia played out a 1-1 draw in their final Group A fixture of the AGCFF Under-23 Gulf Cup at Aspire Academy yesterday, with both sides already assured of a place in the semi-finals.

Qatar struck first through Mustafa Al Sayed in the 24th minute after a composed attacking move, giving the home side a deserved lead. Saudi Arabia pressed for an equaliser for long periods and were rewarded late on when Thamer Al Khaibari levelled in the 85th minute to keep his side unbeaten in the group.

The result means Saudi Arabia finish as Group A winners with seven points from three matches, ahead of Qatar on goal difference, with the hosts also collecting seven points from two wins and today's draw. Both teams had sealed qualification to the last four after the second round, which allowed their coaches to manage minutes and make changes while still maintaining a competitive edge.

Qatar opened their campaign with an impressive 3-0 victory over Kuwait before edging Bahrain 1-0 in their second outing to book a semi-final ticket with a match to spare. The young Qataris again showed good organisation and fighting spirit against a strong Saudi side, using the match to fine-tune their preparations for the knock-out stage.

Saudi Arabia underlined their strength with a powerful start to the tournament, defeating Bahrain 5-0 in their opener and following up with a 1-0 win over Kuwait. Their late equaliser against Qatar preserved top spot and maintained momentum heading into the semis.

Earlier, in the second match of the group, Kuwait defeated Bahrain 2-1. Ahmed Boodai opened the scoring for Kuwait in the 15th minute, before Montaser Suleiman doubled the lead from the penalty spot in the 31st minute. Bahrain replied through Ali Al Dosari in the 67th minute but could not complete the comeback.

Kuwait finished their campaign in third place with three points, while Bahrain exited the tournament without a point after three straight defeats.

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