Saudi Arabia open Gulf 27 with victory over Kuwait after late own goal

Saudi Arabia began Gulf 27 with a 1-0 win over Kuwait in the opening round of the tournament in Jeddah.

The competition got under way in the Saudi city on Wednesday, with neither side able to break the deadlock during a goalless first half.

The decisive moment came in the 74th minute, when Kuwait defender Yusuf Al-Haqan turned Hummam Al-Hamami’s cross into his own net.

Saudi Arabia protected its advantage for the remainder of the match to secure three points and move to the top of Group A.

The result also ended a run of draws between the two teams in Gulf Cup matches played in Saudi Arabia. Their three previous meetings on Saudi territory, in the second, ninth and 15th editions of the competition, had all finished level.

Saudi Arabia lead Group A after benefiting from Iraq’s draw with Oman in the other opening fixture.

The second group will begin its campaign on Thursday, with the United Arab Emirates facing Yemen and Qatar taking on Bahrain.