Muscat: Royal Court Affairs (RCA) retained their title as champions of the 2026 Government Institutions Eights Football Championship, winning the second edition after a deserved 2–0 victory over the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth (MoCSY) in the final to confirm their dominance for the second consecutive year. The MoCSY finished in second place, while the Ministry of Education was placed third.
The tournament concluded under the auspices of Sayyid Sulaiman bin Hamoud al Busaidy, Deputy Secretary-General of the Council of Ministers, President of the Oman Football Association (OFA), and in the presence of Basil bin Ahmed al Rawas, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth for Sports and Youth, amid a festive atmosphere and strong crowd attendance.
RCA entered the final with a clear attacking approach, applying early pressure on their opponents’ defence. Several attempts came through Al Faisal al Jabali and Ahmed al Balushi before Abdullah al Shibli opened the scoring in the sixth minute, calmly finishing a through ball into the net. RCA maintained control with varied attacks down the flanks and dangerous crosses, while goalkeeper Mohammed al Hooti produced several key saves. Shortly before half-time, Taha al Duhani doubled the lead with a well-placed header, ending the first half 2–0.
In the second half, the MoCSY pushed forward with high pressing and counter-attacks in search of a comeback. However, RCA’s defensive organisation and goalkeeper Sultan al Ruqadi’s composure prevented any reduction of the deficit. RCA continued to threaten on quick breaks, nearly adding a third goal, before the match ended 2–0.
In the third-place playoff, the Ministry of Education secured the bronze medal after defeating the Diwan of Royal Court 4–2 on penalties, following a goalless draw in regulation time in a tightly contested match.
INDIVIDUAL AWARDS
On the individual level, Said al Alawi (Diwan of Royal Court) won the best administrator award, Nasr al Wahaibi (RCA) was named the best coach, Mohammed bin Huwaidi al Hooti (MoCSY) became the best goalkeeper, Juma al Farsi (Diwan of Royal Court) finished as top-scorer with six goals. Al Faisal al Jabali (RCA) received the best player award for his outstanding performances and decisive contributions throughout the tournament.
Tournament Director Ibrahim al Shibli stated that the second edition concluded in a distinguished manner, reflecting the strong organisational and technical efforts invested throughout the competition. He noted that the final brought together two teams that fully deserved their place after consistent performances.
He added that the organising committee continued to enhance the technical aspects of each edition, highlighting the introduction of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology as a major step toward greater professionalism and fair officiating.
Al Shibli also praised the high technical standards shown by the teams, crediting early preparations for raising the level of competition, and thanked all supporting entities while affirming the aim to deliver even better editions in the future.
Meanwhile, RCA coach Nasr al Wahaibi expressed pride in retaining the title for the second consecutive year, saying the achievement reflects continuous hard work and the players’ readiness. He noted that the team performed consistently throughout the tournament and prepared well physically and mentally for the final, emphasising their ambition to continue achieving success in upcoming competitions.
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