Bahrain clinch second Gulf Cup title after comeback victory over Oman

Bahrain were crowned as champions of the 26th Gulf Cup after defeating Oman 2–1 in the final match held at Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium.

Bahrain’s goals came from Mohamed Marhoon via a penalty in the 78th minute and an own goal by Oman’s Mohamed Al-Musallami in the 81st minute. Oman’s Abdulrahman Al-Mashifri had opened the scoring in the 18th minute.

This marks Bahrain’s second Gulf Cup title, having previously won the tournament in 2019 during Gulf Cup 24 in Doha, where they defeated Saudi Arabia 1–0 in the final.

The match began with Bahrain demonstrating clear dominance, maintaining possession and creating multiple chances. Their first major opportunity came in the 12th minute when Mehdi Hamidan sent a cross over the bar. Two minutes later, he unleashed a powerful shot that was saved by Omani goalkeeper Faiz Al-Rashidi.

Despite Bahrain’s control, it was Oman who took the lead. Ali Al-Busaidi delivered a corner, which Abdulrahman Al-Mashifri converted with a powerful header into the net in the 18th minute.

The remainder of the first half saw back-and-forth action, but Oman held their 1–0 lead at the break.

In the second half, Bahrain intensified their pressure and were rewarded with an equaliser. Jameel Al-Yahmadi fouled Mohamed Marhoon in the penalty area, and Marhoon successfully converted the spot-kick in the 78th minute.

Bahrain quickly capitalised on their momentum, scoring the winning goal just three minutes later. Mohamed Marhoon broke down the left flank and struck a shot that deflected off Omani defender Mohamed Al-Musallami into the net in the 81st minute.

Bahrain continued to push forward, with Mohamed Marhoon coming close to adding a third goal in stoppage time (90+1), but his powerful effort narrowly missed the target.