Oman go down fighting in Gulf Cup semi-final

Muscat: Oman go down fighting, falling 0-1 to the UAE in a thrilling Gulf Cup semi-final.

The Reds fought until the final whistle but narrowly missed out on a place in the final.

Oman advanced to the semi-finals after finishing level with Iraq on four points.

The two teams were also level on a number of criteria, including yellow cards and goals, with the draw of lots determining Oman as the second qualifier behind group winners Saudi Arabia, who collected nine points.

Oman secured their place in the last four following an impressive comeback against Kuwait in the final group-stage match. After falling behind early in the game, the national team scored three goals in the second half to complete the comeback and claim all three points.

The UAE reached the semi-finals after topping Group B with seven points from two wins and a draw, setting up the encounter with Oman.