Yemen warn rivals with gritty show

Abu Dhabi: Yemen issued a warning message to all the teams of the 18th Gulf Cup.

Yemen made it clear that they will not be a pushover and that they can cover all tactical and technical differences with their will, fighting spirit and enthusiasm.

Yemen, taking part in only their third tournament, gave Kuwait, with a record nine titles to their name, a big scare as they led their match with a spectacular goal scored by Ali Al Omgy in the 17 minute.

Yemen kept the lead till the 74th minute when Badr Al Mutawa levelled from the penalty spot.

Yemen coach Moshin Saleh let the side play to its potential.

They applied a solid defensive game depending upon counter attacks to reduce the pressure and score goals and they succeeded in both.

Yemen players showed rich, raw talent and speed. With more international exposure, the team will be ready to chase titles in the near future.

"We are preparing a team for the 20th Gulf Cup which we will host," Saleh said after the match.

"I am happy with the result and the performance although there were some mistakes specially when the players retreated to defend the lead in the second half. I did not ask them to do that but I know that was a result of their lack of experience," Saleh added.