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Kuwait take on Bahrain in the second semi-final of the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup in Kuwait City on Tuesday as they look to win the title at home.
With two draws and a win, the Blue Waves came second in Group A of the competition by accruing five points, as many as leaders Oman, but trailed them on inferor disciplinary record.
In their opening game, Juan Antonio Pizzi's side relinquished a narrow lead to draw 1-1 with Oman, before fighting back from an early deficit to see off the UAE 2-1 on matchday two. Against Asian champions Qatar, Kuwait conceded in the 11th minute of stoppage time in another 1-1 stalemate.
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At 134, Al-Azraq are the lowest-ranked team remaining in the competition and have the odds stacked against them but have avoided a loss so far, with home support playing a big role .
As for Bahrain, they began their campaign with back-to-back wins - first against Saudi Arabia (3-2) and then against Iraq (2-0). Yemen pulled off a surprise 2-1 victory over the Pearl Divers in their last group fixture, but their progression was already confirmed by then.
Bahrain vs Kuwait Head-to-Head and Key Numbers
- There have been 44 clashes between the sides before, with Kuwait winning 19 occasions and losing 14.
- Of the last eight games, the Blue Waves have won just once, albeit it came in their most recent clash: a 3-1 win in September 2023 in a friendly.
- The last Gulf Cup encounter between these sides ended in a 1-1 draw in January 2023
- Kuwait have won just one of their last 12 games across competitions, a 2-1 victory over the UAE in the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup.
- The Pearl Divers are ranked 81st in the world; while Kuwai are 53 places adrift of them.
Bahrain vs Kuwait Prediction
The Pearl Divers have failed to win their last two clashes in the fixture but boast a good attacking frontline in the cup that will undoubtedly be a big test for the Blues Waves.
Prediction: Bahrain 2-1 Kuwait
Bahrain vs Kuwait Betting Tips
Tip 1 - Result: Bahrain
Tip 2 - Goals over/under 2.5: Over 2.5
Tip 3 - Both teams to score: Yes
