Basra, The Gulf Observer: Bahrain got off to a flying start in the twenty fifth edition of the Gulf Cup (Khaleeji 25), being held in Basra, Iraq. The reigning champions edged past the UAE (2-1) in the first round of Group B.

The tournament which kicked off yesterday, will run until January 19. National coach Portuguese Helio Sousa lined up Sayyed Mohammed Jaffer, Waleed Al Hayyam, Amine Binadi, Sayyed Ridha Isa, Sayyed Dhia Said, Ali Haram, Jassim Al Sheikh, Mahdi Humaidan, Kumail Al Aswa, Ali Madan and Abdulla Youssef.

Bahrain took the lead through Kumail Al Aswad who scored the first goal 60 minutes into the match, before doubling the mark in the 77th minute. The UAE reduced the score in injury time (91 minute) through Sebastian Tagliabue.