DOHA (Qatar): Iraq shocked Asian champions Qatar 2-1 in the opening match of the 24th Arabian Gulf Cup here at the Khalifa International Stadium on Tuesday night.
Midfielder Mohammed Qasem scored Iraq’s first goal in the 18th minute, and added the second in the 27th minute in their Group A match.
Substitute Abdulaziz Hatem, who replaced Yusuf Abdurisag, pulled one back for the hosts Qatar’s first goal in the first minute of the second half.
Yemen and UAE are the other sides in the group.
Qatar Amir inaugurates Emir Cup
Earlier, HH the Amir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani inaugurated the tournament.
The opening was attended by HH the Father Amir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, HH the Personal Representative of HH the Amir Sheikh Jassim bin Hamad Al Thani, H H Sheikh Abdullah bin Khalifa Al Thani, HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Khalifa Al Thani and HE Sheikh Jassim bin Khalifa Al Thani.
Hundreds of performers took part in the opening ceremony that lasted for almost 45 minutes ahead of the inaugural match between hosts Qatar and Iraq.
The dazzling fireworks, just before the kick off of the opening game thrilled 38, 890 fans after the ceremony that had many features.
The opening ceremony began with a visual display of heritage paintings, a documentary film about the history of the Gulf Cup since its inception in 1970, the entry of flags of participating countries and the display of fireworks.
Performers displayed a traditional sword dance during the ceremony showcasing brotherhood among the people of the region.
Spectators were treated with footages from the past Gulf Cup editions on the giant screen while the fans’ area remained illuminated with mini lights, giving a stunning look.
