Gulf Cup: Oman starting eleven for final against UAE

Sports Friday 05/January/2018 18:02 PM
By: Times News Service
Gulf Cup: Oman starting eleven for final against UAE

Muscat: Oman is fielding an unchanged starting eleven that played in the semifinal against Bahrain with coach Pim Verbeek preferring the 4-2-3-1 formation in Friday’s Gulf Cup final against the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
The summit clash, in which both Oman and the UAE will be looking for their second title, will kick off at 6.30 p.m. (Oman time) at Jaber International Stadium in Kuwait City.
Barring one match, their final Group A match against Saudi Arabia in which Oman played 4-4-2 formation on their way to a 2-0 win, Verbeek has preferred 4-2-3-1 formation.
**media[801066]**
As in the previous matches, the formation will see Khalid Al Hajri operating as a lone striker in front of trio of Raed Ibrahim, Mohsin Johar and Jameel Al Yahmari with captain Ahmed Mubark ‘Kanu’ and Hareb Al Saadi marshaling the midfield.
The four-man defence in front of custodian Fayez Al Rusheidi will be manned by Ali Al Busaidi, Mohammed Al Musallami, Fahmi Said and the experienced winger Saad Suhail.
The final will provide be an opportunity for Oman to avenge their 1-0 defeat in their opening Group A match as well as the 2007 Gulf Cup final loss by a same margin with Ismail Matar scoring the match-winning goal.
The Sultanate’s squad won their maiden and only title in 2009 at home.
**media[801067]**
Oman starting XI for final against UAE:
Fayeez Al Rusheidi
Ali Al Busaidi
Mohammed Al Musallami
Fahmi Said
Saad Suhail
Ahmed Mubarak ‘Kanu’
Hareb Al Saadi
Raed Ibrahim
Mohsin Johar
Jameel Al Yahmadi
Khalid Al Hajri