Oman, Uzbekistan play out a 1-1 draw

MUSCAT: The Oman national football team began their campaign at Central Asian Football Association (CAFA) Nations Cup with a solid 1-1 draw against the hosts Uzbekistan on Saturday night at the Olympic Stadium in Tashkent. The highly competitive encounter, which drew a large crowd, showcased the team’s strong discipline, tactical balance, and fighting spirit against a qualified team to the upcoming World Cup with Fifa ranking of 55 globally. Oman will face Kyrgyzstan on Tuesday, before concluding the group stage against Turkmenistan on Friday. The final and third place playoff matches are scheduled for September 8.
Speaking after the match, Oman head coach Carlos Queiroz expressed his satisfaction with the team’s performance, describing the opening result as “a perfect match to learn from.”
“The draw against Uzbekistan in the beginning of our campaign provided many technical outcomes despite missing several scoring chances. We played for the victory and we were supposed to end with a winning result, especially given the opportunities we created. I liked the players’ attitude and performance inside the pitch as they showed a top level of effort. Despite the absence of six main squad players, the target remains clear which is to win in every single game. Our ambition is to secure one of the spots to the Fifa World Cup, and we have to be strong as we head into two crucial matches in Qatar.” He ended

Back to the match details, Red Warriors started in style as Nasir al Rawahi put his side ahead in the fourth minute. After a brilliant individual run by Jameel al Yahmadi, Nasir Al Rawahi managed to latch onto the rebound from his initial attempt and slotted home to give Oman the early advantage. The goal boosted the team’s confidence, with the defense led by Thani al Rushaidi and Ahmed al Kaabi who were displaying strong organisation while the midfield pressed effectively to create attacking opportunities.
Despite Oman’s dominance in phases of the first half, Uzbekistan equalised in the 55th minute through Erkinov, who capitalised on a defensive lapse and struck a powerful shot past goalkeeper Ibrahim al Mukhaini. Oman responded with attacking changes as Queiroz did few changes including Mahmoud Mabrook, Zahir al Aghbari, Musab al Maamari, and Al Mundher al Alawi, all of whom added energy and creativity to the side. Zahir and Salah worked very hard in the dying minutes as al Aghbari came close with a long-range strike, while Salah late crosses threatened the Uzbek defense in the closing stages as the match ended at 1-1 draw.
The other match in the group between Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan ended also at 1-1 draw.