Muscat – Issam al Sabhi scored a brace as Oman defeated Asian champions Qatar 2-1 to provisionally go top of Group A in the Gulf Cup on Tuesday.

In the match played at Jaber Al Mubarak AlaHamad Stadium in Sulaibikhat, Kuwait, Oman were off to a terrible start as Almoez Ali put Qatar ahead in the second minute.

The Qatari striker ran down a delightful through ball through the middle from Ibrahim Al-Hassan and expertly finished it past an advancing Ibrahim Saleh Al Mukhaini in Oman goal.

Oman fought back bravely and got their rewards when they were awarded a penalty in the 20^th minute which Al Sabhi converted emphatically.

Oman continued their fight and took the lead in the 52^nd minute when Al Sabhi swept home a beautiful cross from left full back Ali al Busaidi.

Though Qatar tried to come back Oman held on for an important win.

Oman, who played out 1-1 draw with Kuwait 1-1 in their opening match, are on 4 points from two matches. They now take on UAE on Friday.