Oman to face UAE in Gulf Cup 27 semi-final

JEDDAH: Oman will face the United Arab Emirates in the semi-finals of the Gulf Cup 27 on October 3 at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah, following the UAE’s 1-1 draw with Qatar in their final Group B match on Wednesday.

The result confirmed the UAE as Group B winners, setting up a meeting with Oman, who finished second in Group A after defeating Kuwait 3-1 and advancing through a draw of lots with Iraq.

The UAE started brightly and created the first clear opportunity in the 12th minute when Fabio Lima’s free-kick was brilliantly saved by Qatar goalkeeper Mahmoud Abunada.

However, Qatar took the lead against the run of play in the 33rd minute.

Jassim Jaber delivered a cross into the box, which Almoez Ali converted to put the defending side ahead.

The UAE responded before half-time, with Ali Saleh firing a low shot from outside the penalty area in the fourth minute of added time to level the score.

The UAE pushed for a winner after the break, but Abunada denied Luanzinho from close range in the 48th minute.

Both sides created further opportunities, including a dangerous UAE attack in the 75th minute, but neither could find a decisive goal.

This result also confirmed Saudi Arabia’s semi-final meeting with Qatar.