MUSCAT: In a hard-fought match, Al Nahda Club emerged victorious over Sur 1-0 in a Thursday showdown at Al Buraimi Stadium, clinching a spot in the quarterfinals of the His Majesty's Cup Football Championship.
The first half witnessed a keenly contested battle, with both teams displaying impressive tactics. Sur focused on closing spaces and launching counter-attacks, while defending champions Al Nahda employed a high-pressing style.
Sur came close to securing the opening goal in the 22nd minute when Aymen Hekal delivered a precise cross towards the goal, only to be brilliantly cleared by Al Nahda's vigilant defender Abdulaziz al Shamsi.
The breakthrough came in the 30th minute when Al Nahda's Omar al Maliki delivered a beautiful cross, which was headed into the net by Salah al Yahyai. Following this goal, the match intensified as both teams exchanged relentless attacks. Sur came agonisingly close to equalise in the 40th minute with a powerful strike by their professional player Rory, but it was saved by Al Nahda's goalkeeper. The first half concluded with Al Nahda leading 1-0.
The second half witnessed Sur's determined efforts to level the score, with Al Nahda focusing on ball possession and counter-attacking to protect their lead. Al Nahda had a potentially game-sealing opportunity in the 49th minute when Issam al Subhi found himself one-on-one with the Sur goalkeeper. However, a delay in his shot resulted in a missed golden opportunity to secure a second goal.
Both teams continued to press and exchange attacks, but the scoreline remained unchanged. The match concluded with Al Nahda, the reigning champions, emerging triumphant with a final score of 1-0.
Fanja edge Al Khabourah
In another Round of 16 match, Fanja defeated Al Khabourah 1-0 at the Nizwa Sports Complex on Thursday. The first half commenced with Al Khabourah asserting early pressure on home team Fanja. Al Khabourah had several promising opportunities, with Ahmed al Riyami's attempt in the seventh minute coming closest as it hit the crossbar. However, Fanja managed to turn the tide with a 19th-minute goal, expertly scored by Abdullah al Arimi from a well-placed cross, securing the lead. Despite Al Khabourah's relentless efforts, they were unable to find the equaliser, and the first half concluded with Fanja leading 1-0.
In the second half, the play continued at a similar pace, with Fanja maintaining their lead. The match concluded with Fanja winning 1-0 and advancing to the quarterfinals. Fanja is historically the second-most successful team in HM's Cup, having won the title nine times. They aim to regain their glory in the cup and match Dhofar's record of being the most crowned team with 10 titles.
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