MUSCAT: Al Nahda were crowned champions of the 2025-26 His Majesty’s Cup after defeating Oman Club 2-0 on Saturday night in a thrilling final at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex in Bausher.
The final was held under the auspices of HH Sayyid Bilarab bin Haitham al Said, Minister of State and Governor of Muscat.
The title showdown was the culmination of a week-long celebration across Muscat Governorate, organised in cooperation with the Office of the Governor of Muscat. The prestigious trophy toured the wilayat of the governorate in a symbolic parade, while a vibrant fan village attracted thousands of supporters with entertainment and cultural activities.
A special exhibition corner highlighted the rich history of the competition, which dates back to 1971 when Al Ahli Sidab won the inaugural title against Oman Club a historical note that added extra narrative weight to this year’s final between Oman Club and Al Nahda. Adding to the festive atmosphere, valuable prizes including cars were raffled to fans through ticket draws.
The match itself began with a spectacular opening ceremony featuring live performances and fireworks that lit up the Muscat sky, setting the stage for one of Omani football’s most prestigious occasions. The encounter was officiated by referee Qasim al Hatmi, assisted by Rashid al Ghaithi and Omar al Alawi, with Ali al Ajmi as fourth official and Mohammed al Manai overseeing VAR duties.
EARLY ATTACKS
Oman Club started the match aggressively, launching a series of early attacks through Yazid al Rawahi and Mohammed al Omairi, who tested Al Nahda’s defensive organisation. In the 21st minute, Al Nahda captain Harib al Saadi received a yellow card after a challenge on Al Rawahi, reflecting the high intensity of the contest.
Momentum shifted dramatically in the 30th minute when Oman Club were reduced to 10 men. Mohammed al Maashari was shown a red card following a strong challenge on Al Nahda’s Piri Jean Mari. After a VAR review confirmed the severity of the tackle, the referee upheld the dismissal, giving Al Nahda a numerical advantage.
Capitalising on the extra man, Al Nahda gradually regained control. In the final minute of the first half, Andres Oxnes broke the deadlock with a powerful header, expertly converting a precise cross delivered by Ahmed al Kaabi. The goal handed Al Nahda a 1-0 lead heading into the interval.
The second half saw fluctuating momentum. Al Nahda appeared slightly more cautious compared to their late first-half surge, while Oman Club, despite being a man down, attempted to reorganise tactically. Around the 70th minute, Oman Club increased their attacking pressure following a tactical reshuffle by their coach.
Al Nahda responded with substitutions in the 74th minute, introducing Mohammed al Habsi and Azan al Tamimi in place of Oxnes and Hamad al Habsi. Oman Club’s Waleed al Musalmi was booked in the 78th minute as tensions continued to rise. Shortly after, Oman Club brought on Ziki Omo in the 80th minute, replacing Husni al Hinai, a move that immediately injected pace and urgency into their forward play.
Oman Club pressed forward relentlessly in the closing stages, creating several dangerous moments. Al Nahda coach reacted once more by introducing Mohammed al Ghafri in place of Piri Jean, a substitution that would ultimately prove decisive.
Deep into stoppage time, Al Ghafri capitalised on a defensive lapse to score Al Nahda’s second goal, sealing a 2-0 victory and extinguishing Oman Club’s hopes of a comeback.
Following the final whistle, HH Sayyid Bilarab bin Haitham al Said presented the championship trophy to Al Nahda amid jubilant celebrations from players and supporters. The victory marked a memorable chapter in the club’s history and reaffirmed the enduring prestige of His Majesty’s Cup as a cornerstone of Omani football tradition.
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