Iraq beat Oman to win GulfCup after an extraordinary final

Last Update: 2023-01-19 00:00:00 - Source: Shafaq News

Shafaq News/ In probably the most stunning final in the tournament's history, Iraq won Gulfcup 2023 title by beating Oman 3-2.

Romanian Kovacs Stefan officiated the final match.

On Thursday, the final match took place at the Basra International Stadium, where thousands of fans had gathered since dawn.

It is the first time since 1979 that Iraq has hosted the tournament. Decades of sanctions had prevented the country from hosting any sports events.

Iraq holds its fourth title after winning the 1979, 1984, and 1988 tournaments.

Ibrahim Bayesh, and Amjad Atwan, scored for Iraq, while Oman scored twice in the deadly time by Salaah Al-Yahyaei and Omar Al-Malki.

In a stunning period of extra time during which both sides exchanged chances, Oman could have won but for a superb last-gasp from Manaf Younis, who scored for Iraq in the 119', and the match ended 3-2.

Hours before the game, at least four people were killed and dozens injured in a stampede.

People sought to enter the 65,000-capacity stadium to watch the rare home international kickoff, but they were prevented for not having tickets.