MUSCAT: The Oman Football Association (OFA) unveiled a series of national development projects aimed at enhancing the football landscape in the Sultanate of Oman. The initiatives form part of a broader strategic vision to improve player performance, strengthen technical structures and create a sustainable pathway for talent development across all age groups.
Among the key initiatives announced are the National Performance Analysis Project, the establishment of a National Ideas Lab, the launch of a Governorates League and the expansion of academy and age-group competitions.
Speaking on the new direction during the press conference of the new head coach of Oman team Tarik Sektioui, Sayyid Sulaiman bin Hamood al Busaidy affirmed that the National Performance Analysis Project will play a vital role in building a comprehensive database for players, making it easier for coaches to monitor and evaluate talent. “It is very important to have strong coordination across all national teams”, he said.
“Through this project, coaches will have clear and updated technical data on players, helping them make better decisions when selecting squads, especially as players progress from youth levels to the senior national team”.
He added that the project will enhance communication among national team coaches, ensuring a unified technical vision from the Under-17, Under-19, Under-23, Olympic and senior teams.
The OFA chief also highlighted that improving communication is a key component in the role of the national team head coach, Tarik Sektioui. “There must be continuous coordination between national team coaches and club coaches. This is essential to maintain accurate player data and to identify the best talents capable of representing Oman at different levels”, he noted.
NATIONAL IDEAS LAB
Another major initiative is the National Ideas Lab, which aims to provide a platform for innovation and strategic discussions within the association. The project was approved during the latest general assembly meeting and is designed to align OFA’s policies with regional, continental and international standards.
“The lab will allow us to generate ideas, review policies and ensure that our plans are in line with global best practices”, Al Busaidy explained, underlining the association’s commitment to modern governance and long-term planning.
On the competition front, OFA confirmed the return of the Junior League through a partnership with Jindal Steel Company, alongside plans to organise leagues across all age categories, including U17, U19, U21 and Olympic levels. These competitions aim to provide consistent playing opportunities and support the gradual development of players.
In addition, the association will launch a Governorates League in June, a step expected to significantly widen the talent pool by engaging players from different regions across the country. The initiative will also provide national team coaches with greater opportunities to scout and select promising players.
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