Kuwait lock horns with Asian champions Qatar on Friday as they battle it out for a place in the knockouts of the 26th Arabian Gulf Cup. With four points in two games, the Blue Waves are second to Oman in Group A and need a draw in their final group game to seal a place in the last-four.

They drew 1-1 with the Reds in their opening fixture before coming from behind to see off the UAE 2-1. Having bowed out in the group stage of the last four editions of the Gulf Cup, Kuwait need a point to break the jinx and progress to the next stage of the competition.

Meanwhile, Qatar have flattered to deceive big time, as the 2019 and 2023 Asian Cup champions are winless in both group games: drawing 1-1 with the Emirates in their first game before relinquishing an early lead to go down 2-1 to Oman.

Against Kuwait, only a victory would do for Luis García’s side while also hoping that the UAE don’t beat Oman in the other clash.

Kuwait vs Qatar Head-to-Head and Key Numbers

• There have been 38 clashes between the two sides, with Kuwait winning 20 and losing 14.
• The Maroons have won their last five games in the fixture, including two at the FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March this year: 3-0 at home and 2-1 away.
• Kuwait have won one of their last 10 games against Qatar: a 1-0 win at the Gulf Cup in November 2010.
• Luis Garcia’s side are winless in three games across competitions, losing twice.
• In 17 competitive games this year, Kuwait have won twice: 1-0 vs Afghanistan in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and 2-1 vs UAE in the ongoing Arabian Gulf Cup.

Kuwait vs Qatar Prediction

The Blue Waves need just a draw but will be wary of a side who’ve beaten them twice this year. Qatar need to up the ante to stand a chance of progressing, and we’re making a bold prediction for them to win.

Prediction: Kuwait 1-2 Qatar

Kuwait vs Qatar Betting Tips

Tip 1 – Result: Qatar

Tip 2 – Goals over/under 2.5: Over 2.5

Tip 3 – Both teams to score: Yes