Oman have qualified for the Gulf Cup semi-finals in dramatic fashion following a late-night sequence of matching results and a rare draw of lots.
Heading into the final group stage fixtures, Iraq appeared better placed to advance. However, Iraq suffered a 2-0 defeat to Saudi Arabia, while Oman secured a 3-1 victory over Kuwait.
The results left Oman and Iraq tied on points and goal difference. Under tournament rules, disciplinary records were brought in as the next tie-breaker. Incredibly, both teams finished level on yellow cards after players from both sides were booked for removing their shirts during goal celebrations.
To break the deadlock, tournament organisers held a midnight draw of lots at Jeddah's InterContinental hotel.
Millions of fans across the region watched the live television broadcast in anticipation. However, the feed suffered severe technical glitches before cutting out entirely, leaving studio hosts baffled on air.
Confirmation finally arrived via phone notifications to broadcast presenters, who announced that Oman had drawn the winning ticket to advance, sparking widespread celebrations among Omani supporters.
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