MUSCAT: Khanjar were crowned champions of the 6th Oman Ice Hockey Championship 2026 after a campaign marked by strength and discipline, lifting the trophy in deserved fashion. Bahrain finished second, Al Maha claimed third place, and Majan came fourth as the tournament concluded. The tournament was organised by the Omani Skating Sports Committee from February 12 to 14 at Fun Zone Hall in Al Qurum.
On the individual awards front, Fares al Aufi (Khanjar) was named Best Player in recognition of his outstanding performances, while Rashid al Mutlaq (Bahrain) received the Best Goalkeeper award.
THRILLING FINAL SEALED BY KHANJAR
The final saw Khanjar enjoy the greater share of possession and attacking pressure, while Bahrain relied on defensive organisation and counterattacks. Bahrain opened the scoring through Ibrahim in the 15th minute, before Khanjar equalised three minutes later via Ibrahim al Muhammadi to end the first period level at 1–1.
Early in the second period, Bahrain applied significant pressure, but Khanjar gradually regained control and re-imposed their rhythm. Ahmed Al Lawati netted the go-ahead goal in the 11th minute. Bahrain pushed hard in the final five minutes in search of an equaliser, yet Khanjar managed the decisive moments effectively and added a third goal through Ibrahim al Muhammadi in the 17th minute to seal a 3–1 victory and officially secure the title.
Saud al Aufi, Chairman of the Omani Skating Sports Committee, stated that the Oman Ice Hockey Championship represents an important annual fixture on the committee’s calendar and a cornerstone in the local development of the sport. He emphasised that the primary objective is to raise the technical standard and enhance competitive exposure in an environment that refines skills and builds player character.
He added that organising the tournament provides players with a platform to showcase their abilities, supporting the selection of top talents to represent the national team in upcoming regional and international competitions. The continuity of the championship reflects organisational stability and growing ambition to expand the player base, particularly amid increasing youth participation.
Al Aufi also noted that Bahrain’s participation added a valuable competitive dimension and elevated the overall technical standard, highlighting that the discipline and sportsmanship displayed throughout the matches reflect the growing maturity of the sport in Oman and its steady progress toward wider regional recognition.
Khanjar player Ibrahim al Muhammadi said the sixth edition reflected the sport’s progress in Oman, highlighting an intense final against Bahrain that ended 3–1 in Khanjar’s favour. He noted the tournament helps grow ice hockey by giving players regular match experience, adding that youth participation boosted competitive exposure and revealed promising talents. Al Muhammadi also praised the smooth organisation and reaffirmed Khanjar’s ambition to represent Oman regionally and internationally.
Photo by: Abdulwahid al Hamadani
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