JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia : Qatar began their Gulf Cup campaign with a 2-0 victory over Bahrain on Thursday, taking three points from their opening Group B match at Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Sports City Stadium.
Boualem Khoukhi broke the deadlock in the 61st minute before captain Hassan Al Haydos converted a stoppage-time penalty in the ninth minute of added time to seal the win.
Qatar created several chances and controlled much of the match, while Bahrain struggled to respond after falling behind.
Qatar were reduced to 10 men in the 70th minute when Ahmed Fathi was shown a second yellow card. Bahrain increased the pressure but could not find an equaliser.
Al Haydos then made sure of the three points from the penalty spot after being fouled by Bahrain defender Abbas Al Asfour, who was sent off.
