Thursday 26 / December / 2024
MUSCAT: Oman face a must-win situation as they host Palestine at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex (SQSC) on Thursday, knowing a loss would virtually end their hopes of qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The match kicks off at 8pm.
With just one win and three defeats so far in the AFC Asian Qualifiers - Road to 2026, Oman currently sit in fourth place in Group B with three points. South Korea lead the table with 10 points from four games while Jordan are second with seven, the same as Iraq but with better goal difference. Oman are fourth with Kuwait having the same number of points but inferior goal difference. Palestine remain at the bottom with two points
A defeat to Palestine on Thursday would significantly damage Oman’s chances, as they would need a series of favourable results to stay in the race for third place - a position that could potentially lead to the inter-confederation play-offs
In contrast, a win for the hosts, coached by Rashid Jaber, would revive their campaign, keeping their hopes of advancing to the top two spots, which guarantee direct qualification, or at least securing third place with a chance to progress via the playoff system
Jaber is aware of the high stakes and is determined to lead his squad to a vital victory. At a pre-match press conference on Wednesday, he said: “It is a crucial match, and we will enter with a winning mentality. The opponent is in a similar situation, and if we want to keep our chances alive, we have to secure the three points.” Jaber also emphasised the importance of fan support in helping the team capitalise on their opportunities. “The home fans will be there to support us and we hope to make them happy with a victory, which is crucial to our progress in the qualifiers,” he added.
Despite missing midfielder Yazeed Al Mashani, defender Ali Al Busaidi and striker Salah Al Yahyaei due to injuries, Oman will look to striker Mohsin Al Ghassani and Abdul Rahman Al Mushaifri to spearhead the attack. Al Mushaifri, who netted twice in Oman’s 4-0 victory over Kuwait on Matchday Three, will play a pivotal role in the squad’s offensive strategy.
Palestine also go into the match under immense pressure, sitting at the bottom of the group with just two draws and two losses.
Their hopes of qualifying for the World Cup hang by a thread, and head coach Makram Daboub knows the importance of the upcoming clash. “Oman is technically organised, and despite their losses, they have played strong matches and are a formidable side at home. Our goal is to win and climb up in the standings,” Daboub said.
The Palestinian coach is relying on his squad’s resilience, which was evident in their hard-fought 2-2 draw against Kuwait on Matchday Four
For both teams, Thursday’s match is more than just another qualifier - it’s a crucial turning point in their campaigns. With a shared need for points, the game promises to be an intense battle as both sides seek to keep their World Cup dreams alive. Fans can expect a thrilling encounter as Oman aim to take full advantage of their home advantage, while Palestine pushes for the victory that could propel them back into contention.
