AFC Asian Qualifiers
With only one automatic qualification spot available in the group, both sides will be focused on a statement performance, with the United Arab Emirates the other team hoping to advance to next year’s global showpiece.
Oman - seeking a maiden FIFA World Cup appearance - will have the vastly experienced Carlos Queiroz guiding them and the Portuguese tactician has focused on shaping the side into a more organised and disciplined unit since taking over in July.
Queiroz will once again turn to Issam Al Sabhi to spearhead the attack, with the 28-year-old in fine form after netting three goals in his last four national team appearances.
Al Sabhi netted a brace in his last meeting with Qatar and Queiroz’s charges will draw inspiration from their 2-1 victory in the 2024 Gulf Cup.
“We’re excited, motivated and confident about getting a good result in Qatar. Our players play with heart, passion and the spirit of Oman. I’m sure they’re ready to fight, make our fans proud and be a team people remember,” said Queiroz.
“I know the Qatari players well - it’s a 50-50 game. There’s respect and friendship but pressure will push both teams to take risks.
“We’re here to get results. These next two games against Qatar and the United Arab Emirates will be tough, but we’ll fight until the last drop of sweat. The team that makes fewer mistakes will win, and I hope it’s Oman.”
#AsianQualifiers – Preview: Road to 26 Playoffs Group Stage
Qatar, led by Julen Lopetegui, are still finding consistency with one win from four matches since the Spaniard took charge in May.
Despite a mixed start following defeats to Lebanon (1-0) and Russia (4-1) in friendlies and a 2-2 draw against Bahrain, Lopetegui’s side will be on guard, given the recent record between the two teams stands at one win apiece and one draw from their last three meetings.
Almoez Ali will be relied upon to deliver the goods with Akram Afif providing the creative spark as Qatar aim to make a statement in their opening fixture.
“We’ve worked well and are arriving in good condition, both mentally and physically at a key moment. We understand the responsibility we carry, and we’ll fight with all our strength to achieve this dream,” said Lopetegui.
“We’re facing a very good team with an experienced coach - they beat us last time but our focus is on ourselves, our football, and our energy as a group. The whole country will be supporting us, and I believe we’re ready.
“It’s important to stay calm, compete well and keep our focus on football. Our only challenge is to give our very best.”
Photos: Oman Football Association, AFP
Oman v Qatar
Venue: Jassim bin Hamad Stadium (Doha)
Kick-off: Wednesday, 18:00 (UTC+3)
Related News
- AFC Asian Qualifiers
Playoffs - Preview: Group B: Indonesia v Saudi Arabia
- AFC Asian Qualifiers
Match Predictor – Pre-Playoffs Tips & Strategy
- AFC Asian Qualifiers
Road to 26 Playoffs: All you need to know
- FIFA U-20 World Cup
Japan, Korea Republic chase destiny
- AFC Champions League Elite
#ACLElite – Vote for your Visa Top Goals of MD2
Item 1 of 5