MUSCAT: The newly appointed national team head coach, Carlos Queiroz, voiced strong determination in his strategic vision to lead Oman to its historic debut at the Fifa World Cup 2026 during the first official press conference which took place on Tuesday at the Oman Football Association (OFA) headquarters in Seeb Stadium.
Speaking to media representatives, the experienced Portuguese tactician affirmed that the task ahead is challenging but achievable through collective effort and intelligent preparation. “We will work in a smart way to secure the desired target and register success. Reaching the Fifa World Cup is not just about football but it is about putting Oman’s name, culture and pride on the global map,” he said.
Since arriving in Oman, Queiroz wasted no time in assessing the football landscape. He closely reviewed the domestic players, attended the Super Cup and the recently concluded friendly tournament in Salalah, and held some meetings with local club coaches. “I have already begun a full evaluation of the team and the players. Most of the squad featured in the Salalah tournament. I know the challenges are tough, but I believe in smart work, not just hard work,” he stated.
Queiroz highlighted that the mission of qualifying to the World Cup is a shared responsibility. “This is a job for everyone including players, clubs, officials, media and fans. If we work against each other, we will fail. But if we come together, we can snatch this golden opportunity. Oman is a nation of five million hearts, but we must beat as one,” he said.
The coach also called on fans to act as the "12th player", urging them to support the team with passion during both training and matches.
Queiroz stressed the importance of proper preparation, outlining the team’s training schedule. The first domestic camp will begin on Wednesday in Muscat at Seeb Stadium excluding players from Seeb Club due to their participation in the AFC Champions League Two. A key overseas training camp will follow in Istanbul from August 19, which may include friendly matches including one of them tentatively set for August 27. The squad will then travel to Uzbekistan to participate in the Central Asia tournament before resuming domestic league duties.
The technical staff supporting Queiroz will include Rogerio De Sa as assistant coach, Hamed al Azani as first assistant, Carlos Marques as fitness coach, Vasco Evora as goalkeeper coach, Eduardo Vingada as scouting analyst, Bruno Fidalgo as team/player analyst, and Ibrahim Al Mayahi as assistant analyst.
OFA spokesperson Saif al Jabri reiterated the association’s full backing for the coach. “Queiroz has not come for just two matches. He is here for the long term, and the contract is renewable,” he stated.
Queiroz concluded the press conference by reaffirming his commitment: “I do not have a fixed percentage for success as it depends on our collaboration, our smart work, and our preparation. But rest assured, I will give my best to leave a legacy for Oman football.”
With the final round of the AFC Asian Qualifiers – Road to 26 set to begin in October, Oman are placed in Group A alongside Qatar and the UAE, with all matches scheduled in Doha.
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