Muscat: The Iraq Football Association (IFA) issued a statement about the events that preceded the final Arabian Gulf Cup match between Oman and Iraq, which concluded in Basra.
The official statement said, "The Iraq Football Association expresses its deep regret that the high crowd turnout during the final match led to a delay in the Omani fans entering the stadium to support their national team."
Adnan Darjal, IFA, said, "On behalf of the organizing committee of the tournament, IFA apologizes to the Omani fans who were late in entering the stadium to attend the match, which was a contributing factor in the success of the tournament. We extend sincere thanks to those in charge of Omani football led by His Highness Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham bin Tarik, the Minister of Culture, Sports and Youth, and the President of the Oman Football Association, Sheikh Salem al Wahaibi, for their support to Iraq in organizing the 25th edition of the Arabian Gulf Cup. It was the continuous coordination with them that resulted in the success of the closing ceremony and the final match between Iraq and Oman."
Darjal confirmed Iraq's keenness to strengthen its historical relations with the brotherly Sultanate of Oman in all fields, especially the sports field, and that what happened will not affect the strength of the brotherly relations that unite the two brotherly countries. "Thank you from the heart for your presence in the Basra International Stadium, and we repeat our regret for your delay in entering the stadium due to the huge local crowd presence who came from all governorates of Iraq to attend the final match."
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