JEDDAH, SEPT 24
Saudi Arabia opened their Gulf Cup 27 campaign with a 1-0 victory over Kuwait at King Abdullah Sports City on Wednesday night to move top of Group A.
The only goal came in the 73rd minute when Hamam al Hammami broke into the penalty area and fired a shot that deflected off Kuwait defender Youssef al Haqan and changed direction before finding the net.
Saudi Arabia were the stronger side in the first half and thought they had taken the lead through Mohammed Abu al Shamat, but the goal was ruled out for a foul in the build-up. Kuwait came close through Mohammed Daham, but the first half ended goalless.
The hosts increased the pressure after the break, with Kuwait goalkeeper Saud al Houshan making several important saves.
Saudi Arabia goalkeeper Nawaf al Aqidi was injured in the 77th minute and was replaced by Mohammed al Owais.
Kuwait pushed for an equaliser in the closing stages, but Saudi Arabia held on despite 10 minutes of added time to secure three points.
Saudi Arabia coach Georgios Donis described the victory as difficult, saying, “The team created several chances in the first half but needed greater calm in front of goal”.
He added, “The opening win would provide important motivation for the matches ahead”.
Kuwait coach Helio Sousa acknowledged, “Saudi Arabia were the stronger side, the players are still adapting to this level and will improve with time and experience”.
“The team is working to develop the physical and mental qualities needed for effective pressing”, he added.
IMPORTANT VICTORY
Hamam al Hammami, who was named Man of the Match, said: “The victory was important against a team with a strong Gulf Cup history”.
The result leaves Saudi Arabia top of Group A with three points, followed by Oman and Iraq with one point each, while Kuwait remain without a point.
Kuwait have won the Gulf Cup a record 10 times, while Saudi Arabia have three titles.
Group B will get underway late on Thursday night, with the UAE facing Yemen at King Abdullah Sports City, before defending champions Bahrain take on Qatar at Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Sports City.
The two matches will mark the start of the Group B campaign, with all four teams looking to make a positive start to their Gulf Cup 27 journey.
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