Egypt beat UAE 3-1 to win inaugural Gulf Under-17 Cup title

Egypt claimed the Gulf Under-17 Cup after defeating the United Arab Emirates 3-1 in the final.

The Egyptian youngsters had reached the final with a convincing 4-0 victory over China in the semi-finals. The United Arab Emirates secured their place in the decider by beating Yemen 1-0, with Saif Costa, who holds Egyptian nationality, scoring the only goal.

Egypt made the stronger start and came close to breaking the deadlock after a powerful effort from Adham Haseeb in the 10th minute.

Three minutes later, Egypt goalkeeper Malik Amr prevented a dangerous cross after the United Arab Emirates had launched an attack down the right.

Egypt eventually took the lead in the 20th minute. Khaled Mahmoud Abu Al-Rokab finished from close range after Ahmad Safwat delivered a cross and Adham Haseeb laid the ball into his path.

The United Arab Emirates equalised in first-half stoppage time when Batti Khamis converted a penalty in the 45th minute plus one.

Egypt made a change at half-time, sending on Khaled Mokhtar and Youssef Abdullah for Khaled Mahmoud and Adham Hussein.

Egypt restored their advantage in the 67th minute when Mohamed Attia struck a powerful shot from inside the penalty area.

The United Arab Emirates missed a major opportunity to level again in the 78th minute, as Ali Baloushi failed to convert with the goal unguarded.

Egypt then put the result beyond doubt three minutes later. Khaled Moussa scored in the 81st minute to make it 3-1 and secure the title for his side.