JEDDAH, 14 September 2004 — Defending Champions Saudi Arabia have been clubbed with Kuwait, Bahrain and Yemen in Group II of the 17th Gulf Football Tournament, which will take place in Doha, Qatar, from Dec. 10-24. The draw, which took place in Doha yesterday, pits hosts Qatar, Iraq, UAE and Oman in the other group.
This is the first time that the Gulf tournament participants have been divided into groups and also for the first time that eight countries are playing.
Iraq is participating in the Gulf competition after 14 years of absence. Saudi Arabia will play its first game on Dec. 11 against Kuwait.
Meanwhile, Al-Ittihad of Jeddah will play against Dalian Shide of China at the People’s Stadium in China today. Ittihad qualified by topping Group D with 13 points. This away game will be very difficult for Ittihad especially with the possibility of star players Muhammad Nur, Al-Waked, and Brazilian player Chico may not play because of injuries.
