UAE rally to beat Qatar in Gulf Cup opener

UAE came from behind to notched an impressive 3-1 win over Qatar in the opening match of the Gulf Cup in Manama, Bahrain on Saturday.

Bahrain and Oman played out a scoreless draw in the other match.

UAE handed the advantage to Qatar in the 11th minute when Khalfan Ibrahim slotted home a penalty.

Qatar's lead lasted just two minutes as Omar Abdulrahman lashed home from 20 metres into the left corner.

The Whites took the lead in the 28th minute thanks to a brilliant effort from Ali Mabkhout who weaved through a horde of defenders.

His cross to Khalil was deflected back into his path to hammer it home from close range.

Mohamed Ahmad Gharib put the result beyond doubt with a goal in the 66th for the 2007 champions.

Wasteful UAE who dominated for several periods in the game missed a couple of clear cut chances.

The eight-team tournament is hosted by Bahrain due to fears of violence in Iraq.