Saudi Gazette report

KUWAIT — Saudi Arabia's national football team began their Gulf Cup 26 journey in Kuwait with a disappointing 2-3 defeat against Bahrain at Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium in Group B action.

Bahrain took control early, scoring twice in the first half and surviving a late comeback attempt by Hervé Renard's squad.

The victory propelled Bahrain to the top of Group B with three points, ahead of Iraq on goal difference after Iraq defeated Yemen earlier.

Bahrain displayed superior performance from the start, capitalizing on their advantage when Mehdi Abduljabbar netted a brilliant header in the 19th minute.

Mehdi Al-Humaidan doubled the lead in the 38th minute with a swift counterattack.

Saudi Arabia improved their performance in the second half, but Bahraini goalkeeper Ibrahim Lotf Allah denied multiple attempts, including Yasser Al-Shahrani’s strike, which hit the post.

Musaab Al-Juwair managed to narrow the gap in the 73rd minute, but Bahrain quickly responded with a stunning goal from Mohamed Marhoon just three minutes later.

A late penalty by Saleh Al-Shehri in the 86th minute wasn’t enough for Saudi Arabia to secure an equalizer despite intense pressure in the final moments.

Saudi fans left Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium disappointed, as their team’s slow start puts pressure on the remaining group matches.