VAR system to make debut with HM’s Cup semis

MUSCAT, JAN 19
The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system will be implemented for the first time in the 2025-26 edition of the His Majesty’s Football Cup starting from the semifinal stage as part of the development of domestic football competitions in the Sultanate of Oman. The VAR system will be used in a total of five matches, including the four semifinal ties (first and second legs) and the final match to enhance officiating accuracy during the decisive stages of the prestigious tournament.
Abdullah bin Ali al Rashdi, board member of the Oman Football Association (OFA) and supervisor of the refereeing sector, confirmed to Oman Observer that the decision followed the organisational success of the previous His Majesty’s Cup finals held in Ibra and Khasab over the past two seasons.“ The OFA viewed the introduction of VAR as a progressive step aligned with international standards and part of a broader vision to modernise domestic competitions,” he added.
“The full VAR setup will be operational at Seeb Stadium for the two first-leg semifinal matches scheduled on Tuesday. The system will also be deployed for the return-leg fixtures, with installations ready at Al Buraimi Sports Complex and Al Sadaa Stadium in Salalah. The full list of appointed referees and VAR officials for all matches will be announced in the due course,” he said.
Four clubs have secured their places in the semifinals of the competition: Seeb, Al Nasr, Oman Club, and Al Nahda, underlining the competitive nature of this year’s edition. The first leg matches of the semifinals will take place on Tuesday as Oman Club will host Al Nasr at Seeb Stadium and the match will kick off at 5 pm. At the same venue, Seeb will take on Al Nahda and the match will start at 8 pm. The return legs are scheduled for January 29. Al Nahda will host Seeb at the Al Buraimi Sports Complex, while Al Nasr will welcome Oman Club at Al Saada Stadium with both ties expected to draw significant attention as the teams battle for a place in the final.
Historically, Dhofar Club remained the most successful side in the competition, topping the honours list with 11 titles, followed closely by Fanja with nine. Al Nasr and Ahli Sidab have each lifted the trophy five times, while Sur, Al Oruba and Seeb have claimed four titles apiece. Al Suwaiq have won the cup three times, with Oman Club and Saham sharing two titles each. Muscat, Al Tali’ah, Al Nahda and Al Shabab have each won the coveted trophy once.