Rare draw of lots takes Oman over Iraq to Gulf Cup semis

Doha, Qatar: A tiebreaker was required to determine the fate of Oman and Iraq, who finished level on points, goal difference and goals scored in the Gulf Cup 2026 group stage on Tuesday, September 29, 2026.

As Saudi Arabia defeated Iraq 2-0 to secure top spot in Group A, Oman, which beat Kuwait 3-1, finished level with the Lions of Mesopotamia on four points.

As per the tournament regulations, a draw of lots was required to determine the semi-finalist. The draw took place at a hotel in Jeddah, with Oman emerging as the team to advance.

دقائق من الترقب ????

«الشرق الأوسط» ترصد مشهد إجراء القرعة بين منتخبي #العراق و #عمان لمعرفة المتأهل منهما ... القرعة تبتسم لعمان وفرحة صاخبة في القاعة.#خليجي27 pic.twitter.com/fqprh56Hqj

— الشرق الأوسط - رياضة (@aawsat_spt) September 29, 2026

The result brought Iraq's campaign to an end, despite their 3-2 victory over Kuwait in the previous group-stage match.

The hosts will now face the runners-up from Group B, while Oman will play against the group winners. The match between Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, set to kick off tonight, September 30, 2026, will determine the Group B standings.

The semi-finals are scheduled for October 3, with the final set for October 6.