Bahrain may lose a place in the semi-finals Manama – Arabstoday Host country Bahrain suffered a major setback to their 21st Gulf Cup campaign, losing out to a strong United Arab Emirates [UAE] side in a heartbreaking 2-1 defeat during a dramatic Group A clash at the National Stadium in Riffa.

Second-half substitute Majed Saleh clinched the winning goal in the 85th minute, giving the UAE their second successive win and ensured them top spot in the group moving into the tournament’s upcoming semi-finals. Ali Mabkhout put the UAE ahead late in the first-half but Bahrain’s substitute striker Abdulwahab Al Malood revived his squad’s chances late on with a crucial equaliser.
The UAE now have six points off two successive wins, having kickstarted their campaign with a solid performance against Qatar, beating them 3-1 on January 5. As for Bahrain, they dropped to the bottom of the group with just a single point from two games and one match in hand - against the Qataris.
Group B fixtures continue today as Iraq and Kuwait fight for the top-spot, both on three points each. Saudi Arabia and Yemen will also battle for a place in the semis later this evening.
Source : QNA