UAE Leaders Applaud Bahrain's Arabian Gulf Cup Win

Bahrain’s national football team has emerged victorious in the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup, defeating Oman 2-1 in a thrilling final. The match, held at the Jaber Al Ahmad International Stadium in Kuwait, saw Bahrain claim their second Gulf Cup title, having previously won the tournament in 2019.

A Thrilling Final: Bahrain’s Comeback Win

Oman started the final strong, taking an early lead in the 17th minute thanks to Abdulrahman Al Mushaifri’s goal. However, Bahrain wasn’t ready to give up. In the 78th minute, Mohamed Marhoon scored a penalty to equalize for Bahrain. Just two minutes later, Marhoon was at the heart of the action again, delivering a dangerous cross that was accidentally turned into an own goal by Oman’s captain, Mohammed Al Musalami. This gave Bahrain a 2-1 lead and ultimately sealed the win.

UAE Leaders Share Their Congratulations

Following the intense final, UAE leaders took to social media to congratulate Bahrain on their remarkable achievement, praising both teams for their efforts in the game.

President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed expressed his congratulations to King Hamad bin Isa of Bahrain, stating, “I congratulate my brother King Hamad bin Isa and the Bahraini people on Bahrain's victory in the 26th Gulf Cup. I commend the excellent performance of the Bahraini and Omani teams and the successful organisation of the competition by Kuwait.”

أبارك لأخي الملك حمد بن عيسى والأشقاء في البحرين الفوز بـ "خليجي 26" وأشيد بالأداء المتميز والروح العالية للمنتخبين، البحريني والعماني، والتنظيم الناجح للبطولة من قبل الكويت الشقيقة، وتمنياتي للجميع بالتوفيق في المنافسات المقبلة.

— محمد بن زايد (@MohamedBinZayed) January 4, 2025

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, also praised both teams, writing, “Bahrain, we thank you for the fighting spirit and beauty of your performance. Congratulations on the Gulf Cup. Hard luck to the Omani team, which gave a heroic performance.”

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, added his congratulations, saying, “Congratulations to the Bahraini national team for winning the 26th Gulf Cup title. A well-deserved victory, distinguished performance, and high fighting spirit that deserves praise.”

البحرين .. نشكركم على الروح القتاليّة .. جمال الأداء .. المتعة الرياضية .. ألف مبروك كأس الخليج ..
ألف مبروك لأخي الملك حمد بن عيسى ملك البحرين .. ألف مبروك لشعب البحرين الشقيق .. هاردلك للمنتخب العماني الذي قدم أداءً بطولياً ..

شكرنا للكويت .. أميرها أخي الشيخ مشعل الأحمد…

— HH Sheikh Mohammed (@HHShkMohd) January 4, 2025

A Memorable Journey for Bahrain

Bahrain’s journey to the title included impressive victories over Kuwait, Iraq, and a stunning comeback against Saudi Arabia. The team’s resilience and determination throughout the tournament earned them a well-deserved place as champions.

The UAE leaders’ messages reflect the unity and pride that the Gulf nations share in each other’s success, and the Arabian Gulf Cup once again proved to be a thrilling showcase of talent and sportsmanship. With Bahrain’s victory, the tournament continues to celebrate the region’s footballing spirit and camaraderie.