Oman edged into the semi-finals of the Gulf Cup in extraordinary fashion after being picked ahead of Iraq in the drawing of lots. Oman's 3-1 win over Kuwait meant both the Omanis and Iraq finished level on four points in their group. As they had identical records, lots were drawn to separate them and decide who would finish second and progress to the last four.

Organisers said the draw was the final tie-breaker after applying selection criteria stipulated in the regulations, which included head-to-head results, goal difference, number of goals, and disciplinary card points. Oman and Iraq were level until the final criterion was reached. Musab Al-Shaqsy would have rued his booking against Kuwait after scoring his side's third goal and receiving a yellow card for taking his top off during celebration.

With Oman and Iran level on everything else, it meant both countries also finished even on the disciplinary front. Ultimately, lots drawn in the presence of representatives saw Oman progress to the semi-finals.