Iraq Wins 3-2 Over Kuwait in Dramatic Gulf Cup Match

In a tense Gulf Cup clash, Iraq edged Kuwait 3‑2 after a late winner in stoppage time, but the celebration was marred by heated confrontations between players. The match, played at Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium in Jeddah, saw Iraq secure a spot in the semi‑finals while Kuwait remained winless.

By Felo News Desk · Published Sun, 27 Sep 2026 13:58:42 GMT

The 27th Arabian Gulf Cup match between Iraq and Kuwait ended in a dramatic 3‑2 victory for the hosts, but the excitement was cut short by a post‑match scuffle that left fans and officials on edge. The game, held at Jeddah’s Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium, saw Iraq score a decisive 99th‑minute goal to secure a place in the semi‑finals, while Kuwait finished the match without a point.

Match Overview

The first half of the encounter remained scoreless, setting the stage for a tightly contested battle. Iraq’s Zidane Iqbal opened the scoring in the 52nd minute, giving the team an early advantage. Kuwait responded in the 75th minute when captain Youssef Nasser converted a penalty, leveling the score at 1‑1.

In the 83rd minute, Saif Rashid restored Iraq’s lead with a back‑heel finish, making it 2‑1. Nasser answered just before the final whistle, scoring in the 90th minute to bring the match to a 2‑2 draw and a potential point for Kuwait.

With Kuwait reduced to ten men after Abdulwahab Al Awadhi’s dismissal in stoppage time, Karrar Nabeel seized the opportunity, firing a long‑range strike in the 90+9th minute that proved to be the match‑deciding goal.

Post‑Match Confrontation

Following the final whistle, tensions flared as players from both teams left the pitch. Al Kass Sports captured the heated exchange on camera, showing players pushing and confronting each other. The confrontation began when Iraq’s striker Aymen Hussein attempted to calm a dispute involving Kuwait captain Youssef Nasser and Iraq’s Zidane Iqbal.

What started as a verbal disagreement quickly escalated. Players from both sides pushed each other, prompting teammates and officials to intervene. The scene was chaotic, with several players involved in a broader scuffle before the situation eventually subsided.

Despite the unrest, officials managed to separate the players and calm the atmosphere, allowing both teams to exit the field safely. The incident highlighted the intensity of the match and the high stakes for both sides.

Impact on Group Standings

With this win, Iraq now holds four points from two Group A matches, strengthening its position in the race for a semi‑final berth. Kuwait, on the other hand, remains without a point after two matches, putting them in a precarious position within the group.

The victory also underscores Iraq’s resilience and ability to perform under pressure, while Kuwait’s lack of points raises questions about their strategy and squad depth moving forward.

What Happens Next?

Both teams will prepare for their upcoming fixtures, with Iraq looking to maintain momentum and secure a semi‑final spot. Kuwait will need to regroup and find a way to break their winless streak, possibly by adjusting tactics or player selection.

The incident after the match may prompt governing bodies to review disciplinary protocols and ensure player safety in future games. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how the teams respond both on and off the field.

As the tournament progresses, the drama of the Gulf Cup continues, with each match offering high stakes and intense competition.

Key facts

Iraq wins 3-2 after a 99th‑minute goal
Post‑match scuffle involved players from both sides
Iraq’s victory improves semi‑final chances
Kuwait remains winless after two matches
Incident highlights need for stricter conduct enforcement

Why it matters

The match not only determined a semi‑final spot but also exposed disciplinary issues that could affect future games. Understanding the dynamics helps fans and analysts gauge team morale and tournament trajectory.