New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the opening ceremony of the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup in Kuwait as the ‘Guest of Honour,’ following an invitation from Sheikh Meshal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Amir of Kuwait.
Arriving in Kuwait on Saturday afternoon, PM Modi became the first Indian Prime Minister to visit the Gulf nation in 43 years. He shared highlights of his visit on social media, noting that the significant sporting event “celebrates the spirit of football in the region.” He expressed gratitude to Sheikh Meshal for the invitation.
The biennial Arabian Gulf Cup, hosted by Kuwait, features eight participating countries, including GCC nations, Iraq, and Yemen. This tournament is one of the region’s most prestigious sporting events, with Kuwait holding the record for the most wins among the competitors.
In the opening match, Kuwait and Oman ended in a 1-1 draw. Kuwait took an early lead with a goal from Yousef Nasser in the 34th minute, but Oman equalized shortly after with a goal from Issam Al-Subhi in the 42nd minute, resulting in both teams earning a point in Group One.
Kuwait’s national team has struggled against Oman, having last won against them 26 years ago, with Oman securing 10 victories and five draws in various tournaments since then.
Kuwait’s next match will be against the UAE on Tuesday, while Oman will face Qatar, the champion of the last two Asian Cup editions.