FOOTBALL – HOSTS Saudi Arabia escaped with a 1-0 victory over Kuwait last night in their opening game of the 27th Gulf Cup, which got underway in Jeddah.
An own goal in the 73rd minute by Kuwait’s Yousef Al Haqan was enough to separate the two sides in the Group A clash.
Saudi’s Hammam Al Hammami sent in a cross from the left of the box that was inadvertently headed into his own net by Al Haqan as he tried to clear.
Saudi thus came away with the full three points and climbed to the top of their division’s table following’s Iraq’s 1-1 draw with Oman in yesterday’s other Group A encounter.
Mohammed Qasim opened the scoring for the Iraqis after only six minutes with a rocket from just inside the area. But Oman drew level in the 67th minute when Nasser Al Rawahi scored from close range following a fine assist by teammate Ahmed Al Kaabi from their own half.
Group A action continues on Saturday with Kuwait taking on Iraq at 6.55pm, followed by Oman clashing with Saudi at 9pm.