Kuwait and Oman delivered thrilling performances in Khaleeji Zain 26 on Tuesday, with Kuwait rallying to beat 10-man UAE 2-1, and Oman stunning Qatar 2-1 to leave Group A wide open ahead of Friday's decisive final matches. At Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium, UAE stunned the 48,621-strong crowd just five minutes in when Caio Canedo headed in a close-range effort after excellent play by Harib Abdalla. Kuwait equalized in the 16th minute, capitalizing on a defensive lapse as Mohammed Daham slotted home stylishly. A dramatic conclusion saw UAE's Kouame Autonne sent off in the 85th minute for a second yellow card, and Kuwait's substitute Moaath Alenezi capitalized on another defensive error just two minutes later, sliding the ball into an empty net to secure the victory. In the evening's earlier match, Oman shocked 2022 World Cup hosts Qatar with a 2-1 comeback victory at Jaber Al-Mubarak International Stadium. Qatar's Almoez Ali scored his 60th international goal within two minutes of kick-off, but Oman responded in the 20th minute with Issam Al-Sabhi converting from the penalty spot to level the score at halftime. Al-Sabhi struck again seven minutes into the second half, finishing unmarked at the back post to complete the turnaround. Despite Qatar's relentless pursuit of an equalizer, Oman's disciplined defense held firm to secure a memorable win, moving them to the top of Group A. With the two wins, Kuwait and Oman now lead Group A with four points each, while Qatar and UAE remain on one point each. The final round of group matches on Friday will determine which two teams advance to the semi-finals. — SG
