Stadium barrier collapse injures 40 at Gulf Cup final between Oman and UAE

The National -- About 40 people were injured on Friday when a barrier collapsed at the Gulf Cup final in Kuwait, shortly after Oman beat the UAE on penalties to claim the title.

The Kuwaiti minister of state for youth affairs, Khaled Al Roudhan, said those hurt at the Sheikh Jaber Al Ahmad Stadium in Kuwait City were taken to hospital with minor injuries, probably after rushing towards the barrier to celebrate with their players.

Sattam Al Sahli, head of communications for the 23rd Gulf Cup, had initially said that 11 had been injured.

Mr Al Roudhan said that the injured were "all OK" and that the Kuwaiti authorities had launched an investigation into the incident.

A witness said the barrier collapsed as jubilant fans pushed up against the glass to cheer players waving up at them from below.

The incident marred Oman's second Gulf Cup triumph, which came through spot kicks after a goalless draw with the UAE.