Iraqis fight back to hold Bahrain

Kuwait City:  Bahrain Iraq played out a thrilling 1-1 draw last night while defending champions Qatar fired four past Yemen in Group ‘B’ of the 23rd Gulf Cup in Kuwait City.

Bahrain appeared to be on their way to a stunning victory after Jamal Rashid scored in the 79th minute. But their celebrations were short-lived as Iraq equalised just nine minutes later – two minutes before the end of regular time – through Mohannad Abdulraheem.

Rashid’s strike was right in the face of goal, and it followed a brilliant solo effort from substitute Abdulla Yusuf who charged down the right flank.

Yusuf made a short pass to Sayed Isa, who then played the perfect ball to an unmarked Rashid.

Rashid slotted the ball home with a left-footed effort that was hit just well enough to beat Iraq goalkeeper Jalal Hassan.

The Iraqis fought back and were rewarded for their determination when Bahrain’s veteran defender Waleed Al Hayam brought down Iraq’s Humam Tariq right on the edge of the box. The ensuing free-kick set up the goal for Abdulraheem, who rose above the Bahrain defence and headed into the right corner of goal past Sayed Alawi.

Both teams were solid throughout the game, although chances were few and far between. Ali Madan and Mahdi Abduljabbar both had chances for Bahrain, but neither could supply the finishing touches.

The result gives both teams a point apiece in Group ‘B’. They are both ranked below Qatar, who enjoyed a 4-0 drubbing  of Yemen in yesterday’s other game.