Saturday 04 / January / 2025
Muscat: Oman coach Rasheed Jaber lauded his team’s resilience and determination after their thrilling 2-1 semi-final victory over Saudi Arabia in the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup in Kuwait on Tuesday. Oman will meet Bahrain in the final on Saturday, January 4, after the latter beat hosts Kuwait 1-0 in the second semi-final.
Oman will be seeking their third title after reaching their second successive final while Bahrain will be aiming for their second title.
Speaking after the match, Jaber reflected on his squad’s ability to overcome adversity, playing nearly an hour with 10 men following a first-half red card.
“The match became very difficult after the red card in the 34th minute,” Jaber admitted.
“The players stayed focused and worked tirelessly to hold on. This effort and commitment are what earned us a place in the final.”
Jaber praised the Saudi team as “a great side with a rich history and exceptional players,” acknowledging the uphill task his squad faced after conceding a goal late in the second half.
He credited Oman’s halftime adjustments and the players’ resolve for turning the tide.
“At the break, I told them we could prevail despite the setback. We discussed technical aspects, and the players implemented them perfectly,” Jaber said.
He also addressed perceptions about Oman’s game management, and said: “Our players never act to waste time. They play with heart and integrity to represent the nation.”
With their eyes now firmly set on Saturday’s final against Bahrain, Jaber expressed confidence in his team’s ability to rise to the occasion.
“We always play for the fans. This squad has shown its capacity to fight until the very end. We’re ready to give everything once more in the final.”
For Jaber, the focus remains clear: “It’s about believing in each other and playing as one. This journey has been about belief, teamwork, and the Omani spirit.”
Bahrain await Oman in the final
Oman’s opponents in the final, Bahrain, also demonstrated their mettle in a grueling semifinal against hosts Kuwait. Despite being reduced to 10 men early in the second half, Bahrain held on for a 1-0 victory, thanks to Mohamed Marhoon’s clinical finish in the 74th minute.
Bahrain were down to ten from the 51st minute following Mahdi Abduljabbar’s red card.
Kuwait, backed by a passionate home crowd of over 60,000, pushed relentlessly for an equaliser, but Bahrain’s resolute defence held firm.
Oman’s tactical discipline and Bahrain’s defensive grit set the stage for a thrilling final between two teams that have earned their place through sheer determination.
