(MENAFN- Kuwait News Agency (KUNA)) Saudi Arabia and Qatar both qualified for the 22nd Gulf Cup semi-finals on Wednesday after a defeat of Yemen and a draw against Bahrain from Group A respectively.
The Saudis won the match with a single goal scored by Nawaf Al-Abed at the 27th minute, after a powerful shot from just outside the penalty area.
The Yemeni players were tough, determined, and almost scored on a couple of attempts at goal, but the Saudi defence quickly gained control and ended the half in their favor.
In the second half, both teams exchanged attacks but the Saudi side played very carefully and maintained composure, despite also missing several chances to score again.
In the other group match, Qatar and Bahrain played a cautious game, relying heavily on counterattacks, with the Bahraini team missing two golden chances overall in the match.
As a result, Saudi Arabia top the group with seven points, while Qatar follow with three, as both advance to the semifinals and await tomorrow's Group B matches, including Kuwait vs Oman, and United Arab Emirates vs Iraq.
Kuwait top that group two points clear with four, and hope to progress to the last four and win a record 11th title.
The Kuwaitis are the most nation to have won the coveted regional title.
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.