The Oman national football team hopes of reaching the Gulf Cup 27 final came to an end after a 1-0 defeat to the UAE in the semi-final at Prince Abdullah al Faisal Sports City in Jeddah on Saturday night.
UAE took the lead in the 22nd minute when Mamadou Coulibaly delivered a precise cross from the left, with Ousmane Camara rising to head the ball into the Oman net.
Oman came close to an equaliser just before half-time when Issam al Subhi capitalised on a defensive mistake and entered the penalty area, but the UAE defence recovered to clear the danger.
The Red Warriors started the second half with a chance when a UAE defender inadvertently directed a long throw towards his own goal, but goalkeeper Khalid Eisa reacted quickly to prevent an own goal.
UAE were awarded a penalty in the 55th minute after goalkeeper Ibrahim al Mukhaini brought down Luan Pereira inside the area. Mukhaini redeemed himself moments later, saving Juninho’s spot-kick to keep Oman in the game.
Mukhaini produced another excellent save in the 71st minute, denying Caio Canedo’s powerful effort from inside the box.
Oman pushed forward late in search of an equaliser, but Khalid Eisa dealt with a dangerous long ball in the 84th minute to preserve the UAE’s lead.
The defeat ended Oman’s campaign, while UAE advanced to the final to face Saudi Arabia on October 6.
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