MUSCAT: The Oman Under-23 national football team began their AFC U23 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026 Qualifiers campaign with a hard-fought goalless draw against the hosts Cambodia in Group G on Wednesday night. The match, played under difficult weather conditions at a waterlogged pitch, saw both teams struggle to adapt as heavy rain left large accumulations of water on the playing surface.
Despite the challenging environment, both sides pushed forward in search of an opening goal, but their efforts were repeatedly thwarted by the poor pitch conditions that made running, passing and ball control extremely difficult. For Oman, it was a frustrating start, as coach Bader al Maimani’s side created several promising opportunities but were unable to convert them into goals.
Earlier in the day, group favorites Iraq made a commanding statement with an emphatic 8-1 victory over Pakistan. The victory took the team at the top of group standings after the first round of matches. Following Wednesday’s results, Iraq led with three points, while Oman and Cambodia shared second place with one point each. Pakistan sit at the bottom without points.
Al Maimani, Oman’s experienced tactician, fielded a starting line-up that included Ibrahim al Kindi in goal. The defence line led by Sameer al Hatmi, supported by Osama al Mahrouqi, Turki Bait Rabee and Nayef Bait Subaee. In midfield, Oman relied on the trio of Yassar al Balushi, Abdulaleem al Rawahi and Ali al Balushi, with Osama Majdi and Mohammed Bait Subaee providing support to lone forward Mohammed al Oraibi.
Throughout the 90 minutes, Oman pushed to break the deadlock as Al Oraibi and Majdi both testing the Cambodian goalkeeper. However, the waterlogged surface slowed play considerably, nullifying Oman’s quick passing style and limiting their ability to sustain pressure in the attacking third.
With qualification at stake, Oman will now turn their focus to their second match on Saturday against Iraq, who enter the contest high on confidence after their dominant performance. The clash is expected to be decisive in shaping the group standings. Meanwhile, Cambodia will take on Pakistan in their next outing.
The AFC U23 Asian Cup Saudi Arabia 2026 Qualifiers features 11 groups, with the 11 group winners and the four best runners-up advancing to the final tournament. They will join host nation Saudi Arabia to complete the 16 team line-up.
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