Khalil Al Balushi stunned as Oman reach Gulf Cup 27 semi-finals by draw

Oman commentator Khalil Al Balushi said he was still “in shock” after his country reached the semi-finals of Gulf Cup 27 in dramatic circumstances.

Oman beat Kuwait 3-1 in their final group match on Tuesday, but a costly celebration by Musab Al Shaqsi prevented them from securing direct qualification. After scoring Oman’s third goal, Al Shaqsi removed his shirt, leaving his side’s hopes dependent on a draw.

Oman and Iraq had finished level on every relevant measure, including fair play, meaning a draw was required to determine which team would advance alongside group winners Saudi Arabia.

The draw was held after the match in the presence of representatives from both Iraq and Oman. It resulted in Oman progressing to the next round, with Saudi Arabia taking the other semi-final place from the group.

The unusual conclusion created considerable debate after the final whistle. Speaking after Oman’s qualification, Al Balushi, who works for Al Kass channels, said: “I am still in shock. I don’t know, but praise be to God that we qualified.”

He added: “I don’t know how it happened. Let me return to the hotel and think about it so I can take it all in.”

Al Balushi continued: “Praise be to God that we qualified. We needed this qualification and, psychologically, it will be extremely beneficial.”

The commentator’s reaction was shared by Al Kass on 29 September 2026, alongside footage of him expressing his disbelief at the outcome.

Oman began their campaign with a 1-1 draw against Iraq before suffering a 3-0 defeat by hosts Saudi Arabia in the second round of matches. They then recovered to beat Kuwait 3-1 and finish the group stage with the result that ultimately took them into the semi-finals.

Iraq had beaten Kuwait 3-2 in their second match, but lost 2-0 to Saudi Arabia that evening. That left Iraq and Oman inseparable on the group’s sporting and disciplinary criteria, with the qualifying place finally decided by the lottery.