Sektioui urges patience as Oman exit

JEDDAH: The Oman national football coach Tarik Sektioui called for patience and continued development after his side bowed out of the 27th Arabian Gulf Cup.
As suffered a 1-0 defeat to the United Arab Emirates in the semifinals at Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Sports City on Saturday night.
Red Warriors, who had reached the last four after an eventful group-stage campaign, were unable to overcome a disciplined UAE side despite creating several opportunities to level the score.
UAE ended their hopes of reaching the final to face hosts Saudi Arabia on October 6.
Oman fell behind in the 22nd minute when Othman Camara headed home a cross from Mamadou Coulibaly.

National team came close to an immediate response two minutes later, but Amjad al Harthi's effort was cleared off the line by UAE defender Lucas Pimenta.
Sektioui's side continued to search for an equaliser after the break, while goalkeeper Ibrahim al Mukhaini kept Oman in contention with an outstanding performance.
Al Mukhaini saved a penalty from Nicolas Gimenez in the 56th minute after a foul on Luan Pereira, before producing another important stop to deny Caio Canedo in the 71st minute.
Reflecting on the result, Sektioui said: 'We played a good match, but we were unable to come back against a strong and organised opponent.”
“We tried to be realistic. I am sad about the defeat and our exit, despite the circumstances we have been facing.'

The Moroccan coach, who took charge of Oman in March, highlighted the importance of the tournament in preparing the squad for future challenges.
'We benefited greatly from this tournament, and we will evaluate our level and performance. It was important for the young players, especially as the upcoming competitions will be stronger and more difficult,' he added.
Oman had shown resilience throughout the competition, including a 3-1 comeback victory over Kuwait that secured their place in the semifinals after finishing level on points with Iraq. Their progress was eventually confirmed through a draw of lots, underlining the fine margins of their campaign.
Sektioui also stressed that: 'The national team door is open to every player who proves his level. We have plenty of time to work on correcting our mistakes. Changes involving some players were necessary for the future of Omani football,' he said.
Looking ahead, Sektioui called on everyone involved in Omani football to remain patient and committed to the long-term project.
'I always say that we must be patient, and patient again, if we want to build a strong and competitive national team,' he concluded.