JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia — Early strikes secured host Saudi Arabia the 27th Gulf Cup with a 2-0 win over the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Tuesday, ending a 22-year wait to lift the trophy again.
Winger Hammam Al-Hammami opened the scoring in the 11th minute with a deflected shot from the edge of the box, sparking celebrations at King Abdullah Sports City in Jeddah.
Just two minutes later, Georgios Donis’ side took a 2-0 lead when Firas Al-Buraikan struck from close range. They almost scored again when Saleh Abu Al-Shamat, who started alongside his brother Mohammed, hit the bar.
“We are very happy… there were many difficulties, but the players showed concentration and discipline and gave their maximum on the pitch,” Donis told a press conference.
“I think we turned those difficulties into a title, and that is important. We were the best team in this competition. This title gives us confidence for the future, and we have to keep showing the same qualities,” he added.
The UAE pressed to try to close the deficit. They were awarded a penalty in the 38th minute only to see the VAR overturn the decision.
After the interval, Saudi goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais denied Sultan Adil from close range and Fabio Lima struck the bar in the 88th minute, leaving Saudi Arabia with a clean sheet throughout the tournament. — Reuters