Football tourney for government institutions begin

MUSCAT, JAN 20

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth’s 2025 Government Institution’s Eights Side Football Tournament kicked off on Sunday, with the participation of 32 government institutions representing various sectors in Oman. The tournament matches are held daily at Al Amal Sports Club from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM.

The tournament aims to strengthen social ties among government sector employees, encourage them to engage in physical activities, and raise awareness about the importance of sports as an integral part of daily life, ultimately contributing to improved physical and mental health for employees.

First Day Highlights

In group 1, Muscat Municipality topped the group after a 3-0 victory over the Ministry of Justice and Legal Affairs (MoJLA). The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources (MoAFWR) secured second place with a 2-1 win over the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation. And in group 2, the General-Secretariat of the Supreme Judiciary Council narrowly defeated the Ministry of Interior (MoI) 1-0, while the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP) beat the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI) by the same scoreline.

While in group 3 the Ministry of Education (MoE) triumphed over the Environment Authority (EA) 4-2, while the Royal Court Affairs team overcame the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth (MoCSY) 2-0.

In group 4, the Ministry of Economy (MoE) led the group after defeating the National Records and Archives Authority (NRAA) 2-0, followed by the Central Bank of Oman (CBO), which secured a 1-0 victory over the Majlis Ash'shura.

Saud Ambusaidi, Assistant Director-General for Sports Activities, stated, “The tournament, with the participation of 32 teams representing various government institutions in Oman, aims to foster a competitive yet friendly environment, enhance camaraderie among employees, and promote physical activity as an essential aspect of health and well-being.” He emphasised the tournament's role in providing employees with an opportunity to release stress, bond with colleagues, and engage in their favourite sports in a supportive setting.

Ambusaidi added, “Many employees are passionate about football but rarely find the time to develop their skills or participate in clubs due to work pressures. This tournament allows them to enjoy their favourite sport, showcase their talents, and improve in an organized and motivating atmosphere.”

Regarding organisation, Ambusaidi explained that preparations took around four months, including coordination with committees and drafting regulations to ensure the smooth running of the event. He highlighted the pivotal role of partners such as the Oman Football Association, the Ministry of Labour (MoL), and the Royal Oman Police (ROP) in the tournament’s success.

The participating teams are divided into eight groups, each comprising four teams. The top two teams from each group will advance to the second round.