Oman target strong Asian Games hockey campaign

Muscat, June 4
Oman national hockey team has entered its second training camp as part of its preparations for the 20th Asian Games Aichi-Nagoya 2026, which will be held in Japan from September 19 to October 4.
The camp represents an important phase in the team’s build-up for one of the strongest continental hockey competitions, where Oman will look to strengthen their position among Asia’s leading sides and compete for an advanced finish.
Oman will approach the Asian Games with growing confidence, backed by their current standing as the seventh-ranked team in Asia. The national team is aiming to use the competition as a platform to move higher in the continental rankings and remain within the wider qualification pathway towards the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.

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The Asian Games hockey competition is expected to feature 12 men’s teams divided into two groups, making the challenge highly demanding from the opening stage. Oman’s technical staff is working to raise the players’ physical readiness, tactical discipline and match intensity ahead of the tournament, where every result will carry major importance.
Mohammed Hoobais, head coach of the national team, said the team is fully aware of the strength of the participating sides and the level of competition expected in Japan. As a technical and administrative staff, and together with the players, we are closely following all the teams that will take part in the tournament. The competition will be very strong, and everyone must be ready to meet the ambition and responsibility of representing Oman,” Hoobais said.
“We have clear objectives that we are working on during this preparation period. Our target is to deliver a performance that reflects the level and image of Oman’s national team. This tournament is always tough, with six teams in each group, and we must be prepared for every match,” he added.
National team player Khalid al Shuaibi said the players are determined to make the most of the opportunity and compete for a strong position. Our ambition is to reach the podium. We are currently ranked seventh in Asia, but our aim is to be among the top teams and take advantage of every opportunity during the tournament, Al Shuaibi said.
“With cooperation and unity between the players, technical staff and administrative team, we are capable of producing a performance worthy of Oman and achieving an advanced position,” he added.
His teammate Aseel al Maini also stressed that the squad’s ambition is high, pointing out that the team is focused on following the coach’s plan throughout the preparation programme.
Al Maini said, 'Our ambition is clear. We want to compete for the podium and fight for the Olympic qualification opportunity. The coach has a clear plan and process, and we will work hard to follow it and reach the level required.'
The coming stage will be crucial for the national team as the technical staff continues to assess the players’ readiness and build the final approach for the Asian Games. Oman will be seeking to combine discipline, fighting spirit and collective performance as it prepares for one of the most important continental assignments in recent years.