MUSCAT, FEB 23
The curtain falls this evening on the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth’s Eights Football Championship for Government Institutions 2025. The final showdown will take place at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex in Bausher, where the Royal Court Affairs team will face off against the Ministry of Education team at 8:00 pm. Before the final, a third place match will be held between the State Audit Institution and the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology. The closing ceremony will be under the auspices of Dr Mahad bin Said Baowain, Minister of Labour, who will oversee the awarding of the winning teams.
Ministry of Education aims for the title
Khalid al Toubi, a player from the Ministry of Education team, affirmed that reaching the final came after a challenging journey, with the team facing strong opponents on their path to the decisive match. He attributed this achievement to the support of officials, particularly Saif bin Said al Kharousi, Director-General of Administrative Affairs.
Al Toubi explained that the team was formed through internal qualifiers among ministry employees and underwent intensive training to enhance cohesion. He noted that the geographical distances between the players’ residences posed a challenge, but it was overcome through collective determination. He emphasised that the team enters the final at full strength, with no injuries or absences, ensuring stability in performance and consistency in the lineup.
He also pointed out that the coaching staff has developed a comprehensive plan based on analysing the strengths and weaknesses of their opponent to ensure the highest level of readiness. Concluding his remarks, Al Toubi stressed that winning the championship would be a significant achievement for the ministry, especially since this is the first tournament of its kind among government administrative units. He highlighted that their goal from the outset was not just participation but securing the title.
Royal Court Affairs Eyes the Championship
On the other hand, Abdulhamid bin Rashid al Kiyoumi, manager of the Royal Court Affairs team, stated that the team has had a challenging journey, supported by continuous backing from the institution. He praised the excellent organisation of the championship by the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth.
He noted that the team faced tough competitors throughout the tournament, making each match a learning experience that further strengthened the players’ readiness. Al Kiyoumi also commended the coaching staff, led by coach Nasr al Wahaibi. Al Wahaibi has been instrumental in analysing opponents and devising tactical strategies.
He added that the team encountered significant pressure in every stage, especially against teams with strong defensive organisation, which required innovative attacking solutions. Despite some injuries, substitutes played a crucial role in the team's journey to the final.
Al Kiyoumi emphasised that the team relies on high physical fitness and tactical discipline, boasting a solid defence and a quick attack capable of capitalising on opportunities. Additionally, they have a strong bench that provides multiple options during the match.
Regarding preparations for the final, he explained that the team underwent intensive training focusing on physical and tactical aspects, making adjustments to counter the playing style of the Ministry of Education team. The strategy will emphasise effective pressing and exploiting defensive gaps.
Concluding his remarks, Al Kiyoumi affirmed that winning the championship would be a major accomplishment for the team and the institution it represents. He highlighted that the tournament has strengthened team spirit within the Royal Court Affairs unit and enhanced camaraderie among employees in the workplace.
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