AMMAN – Jordan and Kuwait battled to a 1-1 draw in an exciting Group B Round 6 match of the AFC Asian Qualifiers at Ahmad Al Jaber Stadium on Tuesday, with both teams showing resilience and determination throughout a thrilling encounter.

The match began with Jordan taking the lead in the 21st minute. Yazan Al Nueimat put his team ahead with a stunning long-range strike, sending the ball sailing into the net from outside the box. His well-executed shot left Kuwaiti goalkeeper Ali Al Habsi with no chance and gave the hosts an early advantage.

Jordan controlled possession in the first half, dominating the midfield and creating several opportunities. However, despite having the upper hand, they failed to capitalize on their dominance, leaving Kuwait with a chance to regroup for the second half.

The game took a turn in the 57th minute when Jordan’s goalkeeper Yazeed Abu Laila was forced to leave the pitch due to injury.

His departure left Abdallah Al Fakhouri to take over in goal, marking a critical moment in the match. The loss of Abu Laila seemed to affect Jordan’s confidence as they struggled to maintain their rhythm.

Kuwait seized the opportunity to level the score just after the hour mark. Mohammed Daham blasted a powerful shot from 30 meters out in the 68th minute, catching Al Fakhouri off guard and sending the ball into the back of the net.

The visitors’ equalizer injected fresh energy into the game, and both teams began pushing for a winner.

Despite several attempts from both sides, neither team could break the deadlock. Jordan, who had looked in control in the first half, found it difficult to regain their earlier dominance, particularly in midfield.

Kuwait, on the other hand, had grown in confidence after their equalizer but could not find a way to beat Al Fakhouri again. As the final whistle blew, both teams were forced to settle for a point each.

Jordan’s performance was a tale of two halves. While they had a firm grip on the match in the first period, they struggled to assert themselves after the break, allowing Kuwait to claw their way back into the game.

The Jordanians missed key opportunities to extend their lead, and the loss of their starting goalkeeper seemed to disrupt their momentum.

In the group standings, South Korea remains at the top with 14 points after a 1-1 draw with Palestine, while Iraq moved into second place with 11 points following a 1-0 win over Oman.

Jordan, with 9 points, occupies third place, while Kuwait stays in fifth with 4 points. Palestine, with just 3 points, sits at the bottom of the group.

Looking ahead, Jordan will face Palestine in Amman in March, followed by an away match against South Korea as they continue their campaign in the AFC Asian Qualifiers.