White Vs Red; Nation comes together for Gulf Cup Final
TDT | Manama
Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com
This isn’t just a match; it’s a national movement.
Bahrain’s dream of securing back-to-back Gulf Cup titles has united the country like never before.
Whether in the stands in Kuwait or at gatherings back home, Bahraini hearts beat as one today, ready to cheer their team to glory as the team take on Oman in the much-anticipated final of the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup at Kuwait's Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium.
Fans, draped in their iconic red and white, are ready to flood the stands with unwavering support, turning the stadium into a spectacle of national pride and unity.
In the days leading up to this historic match, the Kingdom has witnessed an extraordinary outpouring of passion and preparation. Thousands of fans have secured their spots in Kuwait, with Gulf Air doubling its capacity to operate 18 round-trip flights, ensuring no loyal supporter is left behind. The Bahrain Olympic Committee confirmed that all allocated tickets for Bahraini fans were snapped up well ahead of the game, underscoring the nation’s eagerness to rally behind its team.
The energy is infectious, with travel agencies reporting record-breaking bookings as fans opt for packages bundling match tickets, transportation, and accommodation. Social media buzzes with excitement, with fan groups organizing chants, creating banners, and planning synchronized displays to ignite the stadium.
Bahrain’s Campaign for Glory
The defending champions, Bahrain, are chasing back-toback titles, while Oman, inspired by their spirited performances, is eager to claim their first Gulf Cup victory since 2017. Both teams have shown exceptional resilience throughout the tournament. Bahrain edged out host nation Kuwait in a tense semi-final, while Oman pulled off a stunning win over Saudi Arabia.
In a move to support the national team, the Bahraini government has announced a public holiday on Sunday, January 5. His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, made the declaration following directives from His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa. The initiative ensures fans can travel and attend the match without concerns about returning to work.
MP Mohammed Janahi expressed enthusiasm for this unifying move, proposing that the holiday be extended across the private sector. “Many private sector employees have voiced their desire for a similar holiday, enabling them to support the national team alongside their families. A unified holiday boosts morale and fosters a sense of national pride,” Janahi said.
Several private companies, including Benefit, Mazad, Naseej, and Nad Holding Company, have joined the initiative, granting employees a paid day off on January 5.
Streamlined Travel
At Bahrain International Airport, the Bahrain Airport Company (BAC) has ramped up operations, anticipating a significant increase in passengers heading to Kuwait. Special measures include additional flights, upgraded services, and planned activities to engage fans. BAC employees will wear the national team’s red shirts to show solidarity. “We encourage all passengers to arrive at least three hours before their flight to ensure a smooth travel experience,” BAC advised in a statement.
Gulf Air, the national carrier, has doubled its capacity, scheduling 18 round-trip flights to Kuwait. This initiative, coordinated with the Bahrain Olympic Committee, allows fans to register for free flights sponsored by Gulf Air and private companies.
The National Bank of Bahrain and Al Zayani Investments Group had gone a step further, sponsoring additional flights to ensure more fans can attend. Gulf Air CEO commented, “This initiative reflects our commitment to uniting the nation behind our team and making this historic event accessible to all.”
Experience the Final at Home
For those unable to travel, the Ministry of Information has transformed the Heritage Village into a fan hub. A large screen will broadcast the match live, surrounded by comfortable seating and facilities, courtesy of Al Salam Bank.
The Bahraini Ambassador to Kuwait, Salah Ali Al-Maliki, confirmed that Kuwaiti authorities have made special arrangements for Bahraini fans, including a temporary exemption from fingerprint procedures upon entry. “This step reflects the depth of fraternal relations between the two countries,” Al-Maliki said, extending his gratitude to Kuwaiti officials for their cooperation.
Bahrain to wear white, Oman in red
Team Bahrain will don white kits for today’s final match against Oman in the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup (Khaleeji Zain 26). Oman, on the other hand, will wear red, as confirmed in a meeting of the Gulf Cup Competitions Committee, chaired by Hamad Al Mannaei. The match is scheduled to kick off at 7:30 pm today.
The meeting, held at the Grand Hyatt (Grand 360) Hotel, was attended by committee members, the final match commissioner, referee assessor, Gulf Cup Football Federation representatives, the final match organising team, and representatives from both teams.
The discussions focused on coordination details, including team arrivals, the trophy presentation ceremony, and other logistics.
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