MUSCAT, APRIL 20
The excitement continues in the First Division Oman Volleyball League (OVL) with the kick off of the semifinal stage this evening, Monday, as fans anticipate two high-stakes matches featuring top teams that shined during the final qualifiers. At the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex in Bausher, Seeb who finished the previous round at the top of the standings will face fourth-ranked Al Bashayer in a clash marked by caution and ambition, especially with Al Bashayer having proven capable of challenging the top teams on several occasions.
At the same time, the Sohar Sports Complex will host an equally important match as second-placed Al Salam goes head-to-head with third-ranked Majees, in a game expected to be closely contested and intense, given the similar technical levels of both teams during the qualifiers.
End of Qualifiers and Start of the Decisive Stage
The final qualifiers concluded on Saturday with the last matches of the second round, which determined the teams advancing to the golden square and set the stage for the highly anticipated semifinal matchups.
In the highlight of the last round, Seeb secured a convincing 3-0 victory over Al Salam, reinforcing their top-seed status. They dominated the game from the start with precise serves and powerful spikes, especially from the left side, winning the first set 25-17. Although Al Salam improved in the second set, Seeb’s experience gave them the edge in the critical moments, taking the set 27-25. They then sealed the match with a 25-22 win in the third set.
In the other match, Al Bashayer succeeded in defeating Masirah in straight sets with scores of (25-21, 25-23, 25-16), in a game held at the Sohar Sports Complex. Al Bashayer delivered a balanced performance from the start, relying on strong serves and well-organised offensive plays, along with solid coordination between the front and back rows. Although Masirah attempted to keep up in the first and second sets, Al Bashayer maintained control during the crucial moments. In the third set, Al Bashayer’s dominance became even more evident, especially as Masirah's focus declined and their errors increased, allowing Al Bashayer to seal the match comfortably and secure their place in the semifinals.
The final round results confirmed Seeb’s place at the top with 19 points from 7 wins and 1 loss, having won 23 sets and conceded 10 a clear reflection of their technical superiority and consistency.
Al Salam came second with 14 points from 5 wins and 3 losses, edging out Majees on set difference (18 won, 13 lost). Majees took third place with the same point total but lost out on second place by a single set (18 won, 14 lost). Al Bashayer finished fourth with 13 points, while Masirah exited the competition without a single win or set won, ending the qualifiers with 8 consecutive defeats.
Thus, Seeb, Al Salam, Majees and Al Bashayer have advanced to the semifinals, while Masirah exited the tournament after a disappointing run.
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