UAE set up Saudi Arabia final after beating Oman in Gulf Cup 27

The United Arab Emirates reached the final of the Arabian Gulf Cup 27 after a 1-0 victory over Oman in Saturday’s semi-final at Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal Stadium in Jeddah.

Othman Kamara scored the only goal in the 22nd minute, heading Mamadou Koulibaly’s cross from the left beyond Oman goalkeeper Ibrahim Al-Mukhaini.

The United Arab Emirates continued to press after the break and were awarded a penalty when Loane Pereira was brought down. However, Al-Mukhaini kept Oman in the contest by saving Nicolas Gimenez’s spot-kick in the 56th minute.

Despite missing the opportunity to extend their lead, the United Arab Emirates remained in control and held on until the final whistle.

Their reward is a place in the final against Saudi Arabia, who beat Qatar 2-3 on penalties after the two sides had drawn 0-0 during normal playing time.

United Arab Emirates midfielder Essam Fayez was named player of the match after making a significant impact throughout both halves.

The United Arab Emirates had topped Group B with seven points, finishing ahead of Qatar on goal difference. They opened the group stage with a 4-0 win over Yemen, followed that with a 3-0 victory against Bahrain and drew 1-1 with Qatar.

Oman reached the semi-finals through a draw for the first time in the competition’s history, finishing ahead of Iraq.