Queiroz praises effort but regrets missed chances in Morocco match

MUSCAT, DEC 6

Oman head coach Carlos Queiroz expressed his both pride and frustration following team’s goalless draw against Morocco in their second Group B match of the Fifa Arab Cup on Friday night at Education City Stadium in Doha. Speaking in the post-match press conference, the Portuguese coach said the Red Warriors delivered one of their strongest performances in recent months but fell short in converting their scoring opportunities into goals.

“ Our players showed clear dominance after the break, controlling the rhythm and forcing Morocco to defend deeply for long stretches. However, I admitted that the team struggled with composure in the final ten minutes, a phase of the match that felt Oman could have capitalised on to secure a crucial three points” he added

“The match was in our hands, but we could not convert the scoring attempts into goals,” Queiroz said. “We played against a tough opponent who came fully prepared for this tournament. Still, we succeeded in organising our defensive structure and deploying a tight backline that made it very difficult for Morocco to find any real breakthroughs.”

Despite Morocco being reduced to ten men in the 53rd minute after Hamed Allah received a straight red card for a reckless challenge on Musab al Shaqsi, Oman were unable to take full advantage of the numerical superiority. The draw, however, earned Oman their first point of the competition and keeps their hopes of advancing alive, though the qualification scenario is now more complex. Oman must defeat Comoros on Monday at Stadium 974 and simultaneously hope for Saudi Arabia to beat Morocco to boost their chances of progressing to the knockout stage.

Queiroz complemented his squad’s overall discipline and fighting spirit, emphasising that their strong performance resonated positively with the fans. “I am very proud of the players’ show tonight. The performance was acceptable to our supporters even though we could not manage to score. I believe the fans appreciated the effort, the tactical discipline, and the commitment shown on the pitch,” he added.

When asked about player absences, Queiroz explained that certain injuries and incomplete physical readiness had impacted his squad selection. “There are a few absences due to injuries, and some players are still not in full form. But those who played tonight gave everything, and I appreciate their dedication.”

On the refereeing, Queiroz offered a balanced assessment, stating: “The referee officiated the match well. As for the red card, it was not an intentional action from the Moroccan player, but these things happen in football. The match was tough with intense duels on both sides.”

Oman goalkeeper Ibrahim al Mukhaini, who delivered an outstanding performance and was deservedly named Man of the Match, echoed the coach’s sentiments. “We played a strong match but could not find the final touch,” he said. “Morocco are a tough opponent. Our qualification chances are still alive, and we must stay fully focused on our next match.”

Oman will now prepare for a decisive clash against Comoros on Monday knowing that only a victory will keep their ambitions of advancing to the next round alive. Later on Friday night, Saudi Arabia secured their spot into the quarterfinals after defeating Comoros 3-1 with six points from two matches.