MUSCAT, JAN 24
Photo by: SALEH AL SHARGI
Seeb and Al Bashayer secured their places in the final of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth Volleyball Shield after overcoming tough semi-final challenges in an action-packed evening at the auxiliary hall of the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex in Bausher. A strong crowd turnout reflected the high technical quality of the matches and the fierce competition among the four contenders.
Seeb booked their spot following a marathon encounter against Majees that was decided in a dramatic tie-break, while Al Bashayer maintained their impressive form with a straight-sets victory over Sohar, setting up a highly anticipated final scheduled for February 23.
A battle decided in the final moments
Seeb entered their clash against Majees with clear determination, applying early attacking pressure to take control of the opening exchanges. However, Majees quickly regrouped and capitalised on defensive lapses to turn the tide and claim the first set 25–21.
Seeb responded strongly in the second set after tactical adjustments, with Khamis al Jabri’s introduction adding balance and momentum. Strong performances from Saud al Maamari, Adam al Jilboobi, Ismail al Hadi, and Russian professional Bogdan helped restore control as Seeb levelled the match with a 25–19 win.
The third set remained tightly contested, with both sides trading points before Seeb’s effective blocking and quick attacks made the difference, securing a 25–22 advantage. Majees, however, refused to back down and dominated the fourth set, exploiting Seeb’s loss of focus to win comfortably 25–15 and force a decisive fifth set.
The tie-break delivered peak drama, with the teams exchanging leads until the closing stages. Seeb’s experience proved decisive at the crucial moments, edging the set 18–16 to seal victory and spark celebrations among their supporters.
Al Bashayer cruise in straight sets
In the other semi-final, Al Bashayer delivered a composed and disciplined performance to defeat Sohar 3–0, showcasing strong defensive organisation and attacking efficiency.
The first set was evenly balanced before Al Bashayer stepped up at key moments to take it 25–20. The second set turned into a fierce battle that extended into extra points, with Al Bashayer’s mental strength and experience carrying them through 35–33. With Sohar showing signs of physical fatigue in the third, Al Bashayer maintained control to close it out 25–21 and complete a clean sweep.
With this result, Al Bashayer continue their steady march toward the title and now prepare for a high-stakes final against Seeb — a showdown expected to deliver intensity and quality, given the experience and big-match pedigree of both sides.
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