Saudi Arabia defeated defending champions Iraq 3-1, securing a semifinal spot in the group stage final round of the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup at Kuwait City’s Jaber Al-Ahmad Stadium on Saturday.
Second-half substitute Abdullah Al-Hamdan’s late brace and Salem Al-Dawsari’s penalty gave the Green Falcons a decisive victory despite Mohanad Ali’s only goal for Iraq.
The Saudis began the game aggressively, aiming to score early, but their forwards failed to capitalize on promising opportunities. Iraq countered effectively, appearing dangerous, yet their attempts fell short due to poor finishing.
In the 37th minute, Saudi defender Abdulelah Al-Malki left the pitch due to injury and was replaced by Abdulelah Hawsawi, affecting the team’s defensive structure.
Penalty Drama and Al-Dawsari’s Redemption
In the second half, Saudi Arabia intensified its attack, earning a penalty eight minutes after VAR confirmed Ibrahim Bayesh’s handball. Al-Dawsari, the 2022 Asian Player of the Year, confidently converted the penalty, finding the bottom right corner and redeeming missed spot-kicks from previous matches.
However, Iraq quickly equalized seven minutes later as Mohanad Ali connected with Aymen Hussein’s header, striking past the Saudi goalkeeper.
Al-Hamdan Seals Victory with a Late Double
Saudi coach Hervé Renard made critical substitutions, introducing Awn Al-Saluli and Abdullah Al-Hamdan to revitalize the attack. Al-Hamdan struck in the 81st minute, receiving a precise pass from Sultan Al-Ghannam before firing into the top left corner.
Five minutes later, Al-Dawsari outmaneuvered defenders during a fast break and set up Al-Hamdan, who scored with a low shot. However, Iraq’s late attempts to narrow the gap failed, leaving the final score 3-1 in Saudi Arabia’s favor.
With six points, Saudi Arabia topped Group B, finishing ahead of Bahrain, who lost 2-1 to Yemen. The Green Falcons will face hosts Kuwait in the semifinals on Tuesday, while Bahrain take on Group A winners Oman on the same day.
