Saturday 28 / December / 2024
MUSCAT: The stakes are high for the Red Warriors when they face Kyrgyz Republic in a do-or-die encounter at the Abdullah bin Khalifa Stadium in the Group F match of the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 in Doha on Thursday. The match kicks off at 7pm, Oman time.
Branko Ivankovic’s Oman have just managed one point from their previous two matches in the group stage and will need an outright victory on Thursday to make it to the Round of 16.
The experienced Croatian coach is hopeful that his players can achieve the mission of picking up three points, which will help them advance into round of 16 either as group runner-up or one of the best four third-place finishers.
Saudi Arabia, which won a close match (2-1) against Oman in the opening group tie, lead the group standings with six points while Thailand have four points from two matches. Oman earned their first point against Thailand after a goalless draw to keep their hopes alive while Kyrgyz Republic have lost both their games to Thailand and Saudi Arabia respectively and are at the bottom of the group.
Speaking ahead of Thursday’s match, Ivankovic said he was “hopeful that the Red Warriors’ win against Kyrgyz Republic will be enough to take them through to the Round of 16.”
Oman scaled new heights in UAE 2019 when they reached the knockout stage of the AFC Asian Cup for the first time and Ivankovic is not ready for the achievement to come to an abrupt end.
“If we emerge victorious, we will secure either the second or third position depending on what happens in the Saudi Arabia-Thailand match,” said the Croat.
“Our focus remains on winning and the players are committed to giving their best. We are hoping for a successful outcome.
“Each game is unique with its own set of circumstances, and tomorrow’s match is no exception. Our style of play remains consistent and we approach every game with the same determination, whether against Saudi Arabia, Thailand, or Kyrgyz Republic.”
“Considering the continuity in our style of play, the emotional readiness of players like Moataz Saleh, Ibrahim Al Mukhaini, and Ahmed Al Khamisi, who featured in both previous games, is yet to be determined. If they are emotionally ready, then we will play them. If not, we have to find the best solution.
“Qualifying for the next stage is of utmost importance to us. The competition in the Asian Cup is fierce, with all teams being strong and well-prepared and we remain focused on achieving that goal.”
Kyrgyz Republic head coach Stefan Tarkovic said his team is “not willing to give up without a fight.”
“Tomorrow’s game holds significant importance for us, providing an opportunity to showcase our capabilities in what is expected to be a tough match,” said Tarkovic. “We are prepared to give our best on the field.”
Oman and Al Suwaiq goalkeeper Faiz Al Rusheidi is counting on support from the Oman fans to see them through to the next round.
“Undoubtedly, the players shoulder significant responsibility, and they equally depend on the support of the fans to foster confidence and secure qualification for the next stage,” said the 35-year-old Al Rusheidi.
“Trust in our fans is paramount and the players fully understand their responsibilities. Even in the face of challenges we cannot afford to lose hope. We seek the support of our fans in these critical moments.
“It is crucial that they unite behind the team and provide support and encouragement, especially for our younger players. With the collective support of the fans, we are optimistic that the players will be mentally prepared and ready to deliver their best performance on the field.”
