Bahrain wins 26th Arabian Gulf Cup title with 2-1 victory over Oman

Bahrain triumphed 2-1 over Oman to win the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup on Saturday at Jaber Al Ahmad International Stadium, with a dramatic late comeback.

Oman initially led the match with a header in the 17th minute from Abdel Rahman Al Mushaifri, following a precise corner kick.

But Bahrain fought back, equalizing in the 79th minute with a penalty converted by Mohamed Marhoon after being fouled inside the box.

Just two minutes later, Bahrain took the lead for the first time when Omani defender Mohammed Al-Musalmi inadvertently deflected Marhoon’s cross into his own net while attempting to clear the ball.

Oman had reached the finals with a 2-1 victory over Saudi Arabia, while Bahrain secured its place with a 1-0 win against Kuwait in the semifinals.

This victory marked a historic achievement for Bahrain, as they won their second Arabian Gulf Cup title, the first coming in 1970. Fans across the region celebrated the triumph, with Bahrain’s Crown Prince, Shaikh Mohammed bin Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, attending the match along with Shaikh Salman bin Ahmed bin Salman Al Khalifa, President of the Court of the Crown Prince.

The victory came as a thrilling way to start the new year, as Bahrain basked in the glory of their hard-fought win in the prestigious regional competition.