Stalemate secures valuable point against Saudi Arabia at AFC World Cup Qualifiers
TDT | Manama
The Daily Tribune – www.newsofbahrain.com
Email: hussainm@newsobahrain.com
At King Abdullah Sports City, Bahrain held Saudi Arabia to a 0-0 draw, earning a valuable point in the AFC World Cup Qualifiers. Both teams had opportunities to break the deadlock, but Bahrain’s disciplined defense, led by Waleed Al Hayam and Abdulla Al Khalassy, stood firm throughout the 90 minutes and the extended stoppage time.
Early Drama
The first half saw early drama when a VAR decision awarded Saudi Arabia a penalty in the 14th minute, after Abdulla Al Khalassy was adjudged to have fouled Marwan Al Sahafi in the box.
Bahrain’s number 1, Amine Benaddi, saved the penalty, denying Salem Al Dawsari’s effort with a superb low dive to the right.
This moment set the tone for Bahrain’s gritty performance.
Bahrain Absorbs Saudi Pressure
Saudi Arabia dominated possession with 67%, while Bahrain held just 33%.
The home side took 13 total shots, compared to Bahrain’s 5, but only 2 of Saudi’s attempts were on target, with Bahrain managing 1 shot on target.
Bahrain’s goalkeeper Benaddi made crucial saves, including a point-blank stop in the 79th minute from Abdullah Radif.
Despite waves of pressure, Bahrain’s defense remained composed, with Waleed Al Hayam and Sayed Dhiya making critical interventions to disrupt Saudi’s attacking flow.
Second-Half Injuries Slow Bahrain’s Momentum
Bahrain’s forward momentum was hindered by injuries, particularly in the second half.
Sayed Hashim Isa was forced off injured in the 87th minute after Bahrain had used all their substitutions, leaving the team with 10 men for the remainder of the match.
Hamad Al Shamsan also had to be replaced due to an injury earlier in the match.
Saudi Arabia’s Last-Gasp Attempt
As the match entered stoppage time, Saudi Arabia pushed for a late winner. With 11 minutes of added time announced, the home side nearly found the breakthrough with a dangerous cross into the box in the dying moments.
The chance went begging, and Saudi fans voiced their frustration, with calls for manager Roberto Mancini’s departure growing louder.
On November 14, Bahrain will host China at 2pm. With Bahrain’s qualification hopes looking increasingly fragile, securing all 3 points will be crucial. Saudi Arabia’s next challenge will be an away game against Australia, also at 2pm.
Group Standings After Matchday 4
After four matchdays, Japan leads the group with 10 points from 3 wins and 1 draw, boasting a dominant +14 goal difference, having scored 15 and conceded only 1.
Australia sits in second place with 5 points from 1 win, 2 draws, and 1 loss, with a +1 goal difference. Saudi Arabia is level with Australia on points but ranks third with a goal difference of -1, having won 1, drawn 2, and lost 1. Bahrain is in fourth place, also with 5 points but with a -4 goal difference, from 1 win, 2 draws, and 1 loss.
Indonesia is fifth, with 3 points from 3 draws and 1 loss, while China sits in sixth with 3 points from 1 win and 3 losses and a -9 goal difference.
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