KUWAIT: Fans at the Bahrain-Iraq match, held on Dec 25 for the second match of Group B, shared their thoughts on the game. The diverse crowd, hailing from various backgrounds, praised the overall experience, including the ease of access at the border and the stadium.
Bahraini fan Ibrahim Al-Haddad expressed optimism about his team’s performance. "The team played tactically well, reflecting the reputation of our national team. This is probably the best game they’ve played, even better than the previous one. Qualification to the semifinals is now 100 percent guaranteed, allowing the players to rest during their next match against Yemen,” he said.
Wallaa Al-Mansouri, from Basra, Iraq, commended Bahrain’s performance but criticized Iraq’s approach. "We cannot rely on one player to receive the ball and finish the game. In football, the better team deserves to win. If Iraq continues playing this way, they won’t qualify,” he said. Wallaa expressed hope for a nostalgic final featuring Iraq and Kuwait, reminiscent of the 1980s. "I thank the Kuwaiti government, HH the Amir and the interior minister for facilitating everything for Iraqi fans. Kuwait will always be in our hearts.”
Yaqoub, a Kuwaiti fan, praised Bahrain’s performance and shared his prediction. "The Bahraini team was incredible, while Iraq fell short of expectations. I expect Bahrain to reach the finals and face Kuwait, with Kuwait winning 2-0.” Iraqi fan Hussein Ali acknowledged Bahrain’s superior performance and expressed concerns over Iraq’s substitutions. "The Iraqi-Saudi match will be very challenging. If Iraq doesn’t make it to the finals, I hope Kuwait does because their organization has been perfect, and they’ve been very supportive.”
Nour Ali added, "The next game between Iraq and Saudi will be very close. In football, the team that seizes opportunities wins. Bahrain is a strong favorite for the final.” A Bahraini fan emphasized the familial atmosphere at the game. "We came not just for the win but to support friends and family. The organization has been perfect. I even forgot my phone at customs but retrieved it easily.”
Muhammad Al-Tamimi, an Iraqi fan, described the match as competitive and congratulated Bahrain on their victory. "Even though we lost, Bahraini people are our brothers, and they deserve the win. Today is their day; tomorrow will be ours. The organization was beautiful, and the border reception was amazing. Kuwait and its people are truly wonderful.”
Ali Al-Afari, an Omani fan, praised both the match and the event’s organization. "It’s no surprise that Kuwait excels in hosting such events. Their hearts are always open to everyone. I hope the final will be between Oman and Kuwait.” Iraqi fan Bahjat shared his positive experience visiting Kuwait. "Arriving here was so easy, and the security personnel were welcoming and helpful. I thank Kuwait for their hospitality; we are one family.”
Bahraini fan Hussein Al-Hajari also commended the seamless travel experience. "Driving to Kuwait was easy, from finding bookings to parking. The organization was top-notch.” Iraqi fan Feras Adnan, who traveled from the United States, said, "This was a beautiful game. In football, there are winners and losers. All teams in the tournament are highly competitive, making it hard to predict the finalists.” Another Iraqi fan, Hussein, congratulated Bahrain and expressed hope for an Iraq-Kuwait final. "Hard luck to Iraq. Given the performance, the loss was expected. Everything in Kuwait, from our arrival to the stadium, was well-organized.”
Ansam Al-Jabir, an Iraqi residing in Kuwait, said, "Both teams were strong. Of course, we hoped to win, but this is football. The organization was incredible.” Mohammed Fadhel, a Kuwaiti fan, observed, "Both teams were cautious in their play. Bahrain showed a slight edge, but Iraq still has a chance if they open up more in the next game.”
Iraqi fan Mahmoud noted that Bahrain capitalized on their opportunities, saying, "The score doesn’t reflect the title holders.” Another fan, Ali Hasoun, agreed, emphasizing the importance of seizing chances and calling Iraq the favorites to win the tournament. Overall, fans applauded the efforts of Kuwait’s organizing authorities, highlighting the seamless border procedures and exceptional hospitality throughout the event.