Iraq triumphs over Qatar, setting up Gulf Cup final against Oman
The 25th edition of the Arabian Gulf Cup saw a dramatic final between the hosts, Iraq, and Oman. After a tense and exciting match, Iraq emerged victorious, securing the championship in a thrilling 3-2 victory after extra time.
The final took place on January 19, 2023, at the Basra International Stadium in Iraq. Both teams displayed impressive performances throughout the tournament, earning their places in the final.
Bruno Miguel Pinheiro, Qatar's trainer, acknowledged that exhaustion may have played a part in Qatar's elimination, while expressing satisfaction with his team's performance in the tournament. On the other hand, Iraq's trainer remained confident, highlighting Iraq's ability to take their chances and their scientific approach during the matches.
The match began with Ibrahim Bayesh scoring the first goal for Iraq in the 19th minute. Aymen Hussein followed with a goal for Iraq before the end of the first half, putting them in a commanding position. Amro Surag equalized for Qatar in the 27th minute, but Iraq responded swiftly, with Ibrahim Bayesh scoring his second goal in the 35th minute to restore Iraq's two-goal lead.
However, Jameel al-Yahmadi scored a goal for Oman in the 83rd minute, setting the stage for an exciting finish. Despite the late goal, Iraq held on to secure the victory in extra time.
This victory marked Iraq's fourth Arabian Gulf Cup title and their second consecutive final appearance. Iraq has participated in the Arabian Gulf Cup six times before, making their recent success all the more impressive. Oman, who reached the final for the fourth time in the tournament's history, last reached the final in 2009, when they won the tournament.
The Arabian Gulf Cup final was the first meeting between Iraq and Oman in a final since 2009. Iraq's last win in the Arabian Gulf Cup was in 2017. The hosts, Iraq, have solidified their standing as a key football venue in the Gulf region by hosting the event.
In conclusion, Iraq defeated Oman 3-2 in the 2023 Arabian Gulf Cup Final held in Basra, Iraq, securing the championship after extra time. The final was a thrilling match that showcased the skill and determination of both teams. Iraq's victory cements their position as one of the most successful teams in the history of the Arabian Gulf Cup.
The Champions League draw on December 17, 2023, might feature Iraq, if they maintain their form in European leagues, as a result of their impressive performance in the Arabian Gulf Cup. In the 2023-2024 season, football enthusiasts could potentially witness the Champions League champions and the Arabian Gulf Cup champions battling it out.
