Al Shabab team achieved a valuable victory over its counterpart, Sohar, with a score of 1-0, in the match that took place on Saturday at the Al Rustaq Sports Complex Stadium, within the first leg of the quarterfinals of the Sultan of Oman Cup.
The match kicked off with both teams proceeding cautiously, each probing for weaknesses in the other’s defences. The first serious opportunity came in the 6th minute for Sohar, following a well-delivered cross by João that deflected off an Al Shabab defender and resulted in a corner. Al Shabab responded swiftly in the 8th minute with a shot from Hatem al Roushdi, but it was easily saved by Sohar's goalkeeper Majdi al Ajmi.
Al Shabab continued their offensive efforts, almost opening the scoring in the 11th minute after a goalmouth scramble, but the ball narrowly missed the net. Jouleson, a standout for Al Shabab, displayed excellent attacking form, forcing a difficult save from Sohar's goalkeeper with a powerful shot.
In the 15th minute, Al Shabab broke the deadlock. After a corner kick landed in the box, Jouleson capitalised on defensive confusion to slot the ball into the net with ease. The goal boosted Al Shabab’s confidence, with Mahmood al Khusaibi nearly doubling the lead in the 19th minute, only for the goalkeeper to make an impressive save.
Sohar sought to equalise in the 38th minute through a dangerous header from Prince Claude, which the goalkeeper brilliantly parried after hitting the post. The first half ended with Al Shabab holding a slim 1-0 lead.
The intensity rose in the second half as Sohar pushed hard for an equaliser with well-organised attacks. However, Al Shabab's defence and goalkeeper remained steadfast. On the other hand, Al Shabab relied on swift counterattacks, which posed significant threats to Sohar’s goal.
Al Shabab’s Mohammed al Ghafri came close to doubling the lead on several occasions but squandered clear chances, the most notable being a powerful shot that grazed the post in the 72nd minute. Both teams continued to exchange attacks, but poor finishing prevented any additional goals.
In stoppage time, Sohar intensified their offensive efforts in search of an equaliser, while Al Shabab continued to threaten with counterattacks. When the final whistle blew, Al Shabab held onto their 1-0 lead, securing an important first leg victory in the quarterfinals. Al Shabab advanced to this stage after a hard-fought win against Oman Club on penalties, while Sohar earned their spot with a 3-1 victory over Al Ittihad.
This win gives Al Shabab a strong foothold in the semifinals, but they remain aware of the decisive nature of the second leg. Sohar will undoubtedly strive to regain balance, promising more excitement and challenges in the upcoming match.
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