UAE top Gulf 27 group after draw with Qatar as semi-final ties confirmed

The United Arab Emirates drew 1-1 with Qatar on Wednesday to finish top of Group B at Gulf 27 in Saudi Arabia.

Both sides ended the group stage on seven points, but the UAE claimed first place on goal difference.

Qatar took the lead in the 33rd minute when Almoez Ali met a well-delivered cross inside the penalty area and sent his first-time effort into the net.

The UAE responded before half-time, with Ali Saleh equalising in the fourth minute of added time.

Both teams had opportunities to score after the break, but neither could find a winner as the match ended level.

The result means the UAE will face Oman in the semi-finals, while Saudi Arabia will play Qatar in the other last-four tie.