MUSCAT: Oman is ready to make history as it hosts the Socca World Cup 2024, marking the tournament’s first appearance in the Middle East. The highly anticipated event, featuring 40 teams from around the world, will take place at the Oman Automobile Association from Friday and will run until December 7.
During a press conference, Waleed al Obaidani, Chairman of the organising committee, highlighted the significance of the event for Oman’s sports, tourism and economic sectors. “This championship is a vital step in positioning Oman as a global sports destination. Thousands of tourists are expected to attend, and the event will create valuable opportunities for local SMEs to showcase and sell their products to international visitors,” al Obaidani said.
He also revealed that the Oman Socca team’s squad and coach will be announced shortly, with the 40 participating teams divided into eight groups. Matches will take place in a newly constructed, internationally certified stadium at the Oman Automobile Association, demonstrating Oman’s commitment to delivering a world-class event.
Global Collaboration
Julia Colter, Events Director at the International Socca Federation, praised Oman’s efforts in preparing for the championship. “The collaboration between the International Socca Federation and Oman, represented by the Sports Makers team, has been remarkable. The new stadium, built to international standards, is near completion. This tournament will not only elevate Socca’s global profile but also place Oman firmly in the international sports spotlight,” she noted.
Colter emphasised the tournament's wide-ranging appeal, with participation from diverse players worldwide and significant media coverage expected.
Local Ambassador and Cultural Showcase
Omani football legend and event ambassador, Ali al Habsi, expressed his confidence in the success of the championship. “The Sports Makers team, in coordination with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth, has ensured smooth preparations. This tournament will promote Socca football in Oman and foster local awareness of the sport. I am confident it will leave a lasting positive impression on participants and visitors while enhancing Oman’s reputation as a premier destination for global sporting events,” al Habsi said.
Activities for All
Istabraq al Maskari, representing the Maksab platform, shared details about the accompanying activities scheduled alongside the championship. “Daily activities will run from 4 PM to 11 PM, designed to engage families and provide a cultural and entertainment experience. This is a golden opportunity to support local families and SMEs by offering them a platform to showcase their products to an international audience,” she explained.
Special programmes will also be introduced for Oman’s expatriate community, further enriching the cultural diversity of the event.
The hosts, Oman, will play in Group One alongside teams from America, Italy, Canada, and Qatar. Group Two comprises teams from Germany, Bulgaria, Georgia, Libya, and Serbia, while Group Three features Greece, Belgium, Cyprus, Kuwait and Iraq. Brazil leads Group Four, along with Egypt, Ireland, Colombia, and Iran. Group Five consists of Poland, France, Turkiye, Pakistan, and Haiti, while Group Six features Mexico, Latvia, Albania, Peru, and Australia. Group Seven includes Kazakhstan, England, Romania, Uruguay, and Sudan, and Group Eight features Croatia, Hungary, Argentina, Tunisia and South Africa.
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