Qatar Bows Out of Arabian Gulf Cup in Group Stages

Qatar’s national football team wrapped up their 26th Arabiangulf Gulf Cup journey with a 1-1 draw against Kuwait but failed to advance to the semifinals. Despite spirited performances, the team finished third in Group A with just two points, while Kuwait progressed with five.

The clash at Jaber Al Ahmad Stadium saw late-game drama, as Qatar equalized through Mohammed Muntari’s towering header in the 90+10th minute after Kuwait's Mohammed Daham broke the deadlock in the 74th.

A Match of Missed Opportunities

Qatar started with an attack-heavy lineup featuring Ahmed Al Rawi and Almoez Ali, with Akram Afif adding creativity on the wing. High pressing gave Qatar early dominance, but their finishing fell short.

In the opening minutes, Homam Al Amin fired over the crossbar, and Almoez Ali’s header narrowly missed. Despite controlling possession, Qatar’s attempts were repeatedly thwarted by Kuwait’s solid defense and the exceptional goalkeeping of Khaled Al Rashidi.

Kuwait relied on counterattacks but found it difficult to bypass Qatar’s backline led by Lucas Mendes. Daham’s occasional efforts in the first half kept Qatar’s defense alert, but neither side found the net before halftime.

Second-Half Drama

Qatar continued to push after the break, with Al Rashidi pulling off another string of impressive saves. Substitutes Mohammed Muntari and Abdulrahman Mustafa injected fresh energy, but Kuwait struck first when Daham’s free kick found the back of the net.

Controversy arose in the 80th minute when Qatar’s penalty appeal for a foul on Almoez was overturned by VAR, further frustrating their efforts.

Relentless in their pursuit of an equalizer, Qatar finally succeeded as Muntari headed home Ibrahim Al Hassan’s cross deep into stoppage time. However, the last-minute heroics weren’t enough to secure a semifinal spot.

End of the Road

Qatar’s campaign ends with a bittersweet mix of spirited performances and missed opportunities. The team’s inability to capitalize on chances ultimately cost them a shot at the title.

For now, the focus shifts to regrouping and refining their strategy ahead of future competitions.

Join our FREE WhatsApp channel to dive into a world of real-time engagement!