Late Penalty Rescues Bahrain U23 Against Syria

TDT | Manama

Email : hussainm@newsofbahrain.com

Ali Isa’s stoppage-time spot-kick keeps Bahrain in the hunt at Kyrgyzstan friendly tournament

Yesterday, Bahrain’s U23 national team drew 1-1 against Syria in their second outing at the Kyrgyzstan International Friendly Tournament, thanks to a stoppage-time penalty converted by forward Ali Isa.

The result gave Bahrain their first point of the tournament after a 0-1 loss to Oman in their opening match. Isa’s goal came in the dying moments of the game, after a hard-fought contest in which both sides struggled to create consistent attacking chances.

Compared to their subdued showing against Oman, Bahrain offered a more organized and purposeful display. While some attacking rhythm is still lacking, the team showed improved structure and urgency, particularly in the second half.

Head coach Ali Abdulmajeed is using the Bishkek training camp, running from July 11 to 24, as preparation for September’s AFC U23 Asian Cup qualifiers. The qualifiers serve as the gateway to the 2026 finals in Saudi Arabia.

Bahrain will play their final match of the tournament tomorrow against hosts Kyrgyzstan, aiming to close out their campaign with a win and build momentum ahead of their upcoming fixtures.