MUSCAT: In a dramatic conclusion to their AFC Asian Qualifiers — Road to 26 campaign, Oman secured the final playoff spot thanks to a last-gasp equaliser from striker Issam al Subhi, who converted a penalty deep into stoppage time to earn a crucial 1-1 draw against Palestine on Tuesday night at King Abdullah II Stadium in Amman. Al Subhi’s ice-cold finish in the 97th minute, after Mohsin al Ghassani was fouled inside the box, ensured Oman advanced to the playoff stage which will be held in coming October. The late draw kept Red Warriors hopes for qualifying to the 2026 Fifa World Cup. The result saw Oman finish fourth in Group B with eleven points while Palestine on ten points bowed out in heartbreak.
Oman entered the match requiring only a draw to qualify while Palestine required a win to progress. Despite the pressure and playing with ten men for over twenty minutes following Harib al Saadi’s red card, Oman showed resilience and tactical discipline to snatch the result in the dying moments. Palestine took the lead in the 49th minute when Oday Kharoub headed in a corner from substitute Adamhamza Kayed and sending the home crowd into raptures. The hosts had earlier looked the more dangerous side with Michel Termanini’s header hitting the bar and several long-range efforts testing Oman’s defense. However, despite going a goal and a man down, Oman kept their composure and their persistence was rewarded in stoppage time when a foul on substitute Mohsin al Ghassani handed al Subhi the opportunity to level the game and it was a moment he seized to dramatic effect.
FIGHTING UNTIL END
Oman’s head coach Rasheed Jaber praised his team’s fighting spirit and ability to bounce back: “ We knew the match would be difficult for both parties and Palestine were very well organised and dangerous in the pitch. After conceding the goal and the red card, things became more complicated. But our players showed great spirit and didn’t give up. I am proud of their effort and mentality.” He added
“This team deserves to be in the next phase. Now our focus turns to the playoffs. We are determined to continue our journey toward the 2026 Fifa World Cup.” He ended
With the late draw earned, Oman’s path to the 2026 Fifa World Cup remains alive. The playoffs in October will offer two more coveted spots for Asian countries and Oman will eye to capture on one of these tickets.
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