Oman seal FIFAe World Cup spot after Asian bronze in Rocket League
Published: 04:08 PM,Aug 25,2026 | EDITED : 09:08 PM,Aug 25,2026
MUSCAT: Oman’s national esports team delivered one of its finest international performances after securing third place at the FIFAe Continental Championship 2026 – Asia for Rocket League, before sealing qualification to the FIFAe World Cup 2026 with a decisive playoff victory over New Zealand.
The achievement marks another major step forward for esports in the Sultanate of Oman, reflecting the growing competitiveness of Omani players on the regional and global stage.
Oman’s journey began in the FIFAe Nations League 2026 – Asia West qualifiers, which were held online. The national team finished third in the Consistency Ranking with 445 points, behind Saudi Arabia and Jordan, earning a well-deserved place in the continental championship.
The Omani squad included Sultan al Balushi, Nooh al Mahmoudi and Abdullah al Ameri, under the guidance of Dutch coach Overmeire. The team represented Oman at the FIFAe Continental Championship 2026 – Asia, held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, from August 21 to 23, with qualification places for the FIFAe World Cup 2026 at stake.
Oman advanced from the group stage to the knockout rounds, where they produced a commanding 4-0 win over India in the quarterfinals. Although the team suffered a 4-0 defeat against Australia in the semifinals, they responded with character and determination in the third-place playoff, defeating hosts Malaysia 4-0 to claim the Asian bronze medal.
The result kept Oman’s World Cup hopes alive through a decisive playoff against New Zealand. Rising to the occasion, Oman secured a 4-2 victory to officially book their place at the FIFAe World Cup 2026 in Rocket League.
Eng Saba bint Said al Busaidi, Chairperson of the Oman Committee for Games and Electronic Sports, said the qualification represents a proud national achievement and confirms Oman’s growing presence in esports.
“Oman’s qualification for the FIFAe World Cup for the second consecutive time is a milestone we are proud of. It reflects the development of esports in Oman and the abilities of Omani players to compete at the highest levels,” she said.
She added that the success is the result of sustained efforts to develop national teams, enhance technical readiness and implement strategic plans aimed at building a sustainable esports sector and strengthening Oman’s position in regional and international competitions.