Oman chase a victory against Comoros

MUSCAT: Oman will look to keep their Fifa Arab Cup campaign hopes alive when they will face Comoros on Monday night in the decisive final round of Group B fixtures. The must-win encounter, will take place at 9:00 pm (Oman time) at Stadium 974 in Doha. This is a critical moment for the Red Warriors, who need a convincing victory potentially by three goals to strengthen their chances of advancing. At the same time, all eyes will be on Lusail Stadium, where group leaders Saudi Arabia will meet Morocco in a clash that will directly influence Oman’s qualification hopes.
Oman currently have one point from two matches after a narrow 2-1 defeat to Saudi Arabia in the opener and a spirited goalless draw against Morocco on Friday. Although the team missed an early opportunity to secure a stronger position in the standings, their fate is not yet sealed. A win over Comoros, combined with a favourable result in the Saudi Arabia Morocco match, could propel Oman into the next round.
FOCUSED PREPARATIONS
Under the guidance of head coach Carlos Queiroz, Oman completed their pre-match training sessions with an emphasis on refining attacking movements and solidifying defensive balance. The coaching staff dedicated significant time to improving finishing accuracy and decision-making in the final third as these key areas that cost Oman valuable points in previous matches.

Queiroz is expected to retain a similar lineup to the one used in earlier games, relying on experienced names such as goalkeeper Ibrahim al Mukhaini, defenders Thani al Rushaidi and Musab al Shaqsi, midfield orchestrator Harib al Saadi and Ali al Busaidy beside attacking line Abdullah Fawaz and Essam al Subhi. Their cohesion and familiarity will be crucial in what is effectively a knockout match for the Sultanate of Oman’s team.
STRONG PERFORMANCE
Oman head coach Carlos Queiroz expressed his confidence and determination ahead of Monday’s crucial clash. Reflecting on the team’s strong performance against Morocco, the Portuguese tactician praised the players’ intensity and discipline but emphasised the need for sharper finishing.
“The competition in the group is still open and nothing is over yet,” Queiroz said. “Comoros are an organised and disciplined team, and their results in the past two rounds do not reflect their true level. We must be fully focused and reach the highest level of readiness if we want to achieve the desired result.”

Queiroz stressed that football at this level demands constant balance and unity: “There is no attack without defence and no defence without attack. Every player must work with full commitment in both phases. We need to believe in ourselves and fight for every moment in the match.”
Addressing the issue of player absences due to injuries, the coach highlighted the importance of depth within the squad. “We need ready substitutes who can step in with confidence. Unfortunately, Fifa rules limit certain replacement options, but the team must adapt and push forward.”
Goalkeeper Fayez al Rushaidi, voiced confidently ahead of the match as he reaffirmed the squad’s collective determination. “Our goal is clear to claim the three points. The chance to qualify is still alive, and every player must give his maximum effort on the pitch. We must stay focused and take our opportunities.”