Kuwait Exits FIFA Arab Cup 2025 After a 3-1 Defeat to the UAE

Kuwait’s national football team has officially exited the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 after suffering a 3-1 defeat to the UAE in the final round of Group C matches held in Doha. The loss, coupled with Egypt’s defeat to Jordan, sealed Kuwait’s fate at the bottom of the group with just one point from three games.

The UAE took early control of the match, scoring twice in quick succession. Yahya Al-Ghassani opened the scoring with a penalty in the 16th minute before doubling the lead just two minutes later, putting Kuwait on the back foot for the rest of the first half. Despite Kuwait’s attempts to recover, the Emirati side maintained its momentum and defensive composure throughout the match.

Kuwait managed to reduce the deficit in the 59th minute when Fahad Al-Hajri netted the team’s only goal, briefly reigniting hope for a comeback. However, the UAE quickly restored their two-goal advantage as Nicolás Giménez scored in the 65th minute, securing the win and the crucial three points needed for qualification.

In the group’s other match, Jordan defeated Egypt 3-0, with goals from Mohamed Abu Hashish in the 19th minute, Mohamed Abu Zariq in the 41st, and Ali Colours, who converted a 90th-minute penalty. Jordan had already secured qualification after the second round by defeating Kuwait and the UAE, ultimately topping the group with a perfect nine points.

With the final standings placing Jordan first with nine points, the UAE second with four, Egypt third with two, and Kuwait fourth with one, the competition for the second qualifying spot was settled in favor of the Emirates. Kuwait and Egypt bid farewell to the tournament, while Jordan and the UAE advance to the quarter-finals.