Oman's Al Nahda book spot in the AFC Cup group stage

MUSCAT: Defending Omantel League champions Al Nahda booked their spot on the 2023-24 AFC Cup group stage after overcoming a tough challenge with a 3-2 win over hosts Bahrain's Al Khaldiya SC in Arad, on Tuesday night.

The Oman Club emerged victorious in the single leg playoff tie to advance to the next round.

Al Nahda were quick to seize control at the Sheikh Ali Bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Stadium and will now look forward to Thursday's group stage draw in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Despite playing away, Al Nahda, coached by Hamad Al Azani, settled quickly and only needed seven minutes to go ahead, with forward Issam Abdallah Al Subhi finding the back of the net. 

Al Khalidiya tried to find their way back into the tie but Al Nahda's resolute defending meant they took their lead into the break.

The home side started the second half on a high note but their bid to find the equalizer cost them in the 54th minute, with midfielder Omer Mohammed Al Malki doubling Al Nahda's advantage. 

Forward Ismaeel Abdulatif Hassan pulled one back for Al Khaldiya in the 69th minute, but Samie Al Sunaidi restored Al Nahda's two-goal advantage with his 75th minute strike.

To their credit, Al Khaldiya refused to give up and gave themselves a glimmer of hope when defender Seydina Dabo netted in the 83rd minute but there was to be no comeback for them as Al Nahda held on for the win. 

(With input from www-theafc.com)

Photo credits- @fcalnahda