“Our team represents the future of Omani football in the coming years,” said Al Habsi.

”Reaching the Finals is a great opportunity to refine and develop our players' skills by competing against different footballing schools that represent Asia's elite national teams.” 

He said both teams are familiar with one another as Oman lost 2-0 to Tajikistan in the Qualifiers. 

“Tajikistan are one of the favourites to qualify, and both teams have full knowledge of each other. They are well-organised and physically strong, and we have prepared to face them by playing against teams with a similar Tajik-style approach.”  

The tactician is also counting on their training and a full squad to see them through.

“We are fully ready, and our preparations included an internal training camp, where we played four friendly matches. We also have a complete squad, with no injuries preventing any player from participating in the first match.”  

A free-scoring Tajikistan, meanwhile, will look to keep their momentum going. The 2018 runners-up found the net 38 times in three matches to finish as the Qualifiers’ top-scoring side. 

The Central Asians are making their fifth showing and featuring in the Finals for a third consecutive time, and head coach Marco Ragini will hope his boys maintain their appetite for goals going into their opener.

Venue: King Abdullah Sports City Hall Stadium (Jeddah)

Kick-off: Saturday, 18:00 (GMT + 3)