Oman complete late comeback against Kuwait as Gulf Cup semi-final place faces draw

Oman scored three times in the final 25 minutes to beat Kuwait 3-1 in a dramatic conclusion to the opening round of Group A at Gulf Cup 27.

The result leaves Oman level with Iraq on four points, with the two teams also tied on goals scored and conceded and on fair-play records. A draw will be held tonight to determine which side joins Saudi Arabia in the semi-finals.

Oman needed victory, while also requiring Iraq to lose to Saudi Arabia, to strengthen its hopes of progressing. Those prospects suffered an early blow when Kuwait forward Shabib Al-Khaldi put his side ahead after six minutes.

The team managed by Tarek Sektioui could not find an equaliser before half-time, leaving Oman trailing 1-0 at the break.

Oman’s response began in the 65th minute, when Nasser Al-Rawahi levelled the match. The comeback continued 16 minutes later as Al-Rawahi scored again to put Oman 2-1 ahead and complete his brace.

Oman then added a third goal in the 84th minute. Al-Rawahi delivered a free-kick towards the head of Musab Al-Shaqsi, who directed it into the net to complete the turnaround.

The victory moved Oman to four points, the same total as Iraq. The two sides are also identical on goal difference and fair-play points, based on the number of cards received, meaning the final semi-final place will be settled by the draw.

The decisive match was played on 29 September 2026, with the goals shared in footage by Al Kass.