MUSCAT: Defending champions Seeb made a confident start to their Jindal League title defence after defeating Bahla 3-1 at Nizwa Sports Complex on Sunday, while Al Nahda and Al Nasr also opened their campaigns with valuable victories in the first round.
Seeb showed their intent early against Bahla, imposing control in midfield and taking advantage of defensive hesitation from the hosts. Omar al Malki opened the scoring in the sixth minute after a moment of confusion between Bahla’s backline and goalkeeper Ahmed al Rawahi. The early goal gave the champions greater rhythm, and Gabonese striker Axel Méyé doubled the lead in the 18th minute on his first league appearance for the club.
Bahla, who had entered the league opener with confidence after two consecutive wins in the Sohar International Cup, responded quickly through Faisal al Aghbari. His fine individual effort in the 21st minute reduced the deficit and briefly brought Bahla back into the contest. Hosni al Hinai then came close to restoring parity with a powerful effort, but Seeb goalkeeper Mutasim al Wahaibi was alert to preserve the lead.
Bahla improved after the interval, but Seeb’s defensive organisation and quick transitions kept them in control. Axel Méyé struck again in the 57th minute to complete his brace and seal the champions’ first three points of the season. Bahla coach Abdulaziz al Riyami made changes in search of a way back, while Seeb managed the closing stages effectively to secure a strong opening statement.
At Al Buraimi Sports Complex, Al Nahda snatched a 1-0 win over promoted Al Musannah after a tight contest that remained alive until the final minutes. Al Nahda dominated long spells of the first half and created the clearer chances, including an effort from Jamal al Wahshi that was pushed away for a corner by Al Musannah goalkeeper Al Mutasim al Balushi.
The hosts increased their pressure after the break and were awarded a penalty following a VAR review, but Valon Ahmedi’s attempt struck the crossbar. Al Musannah grew into the game after that setback and defended with discipline, with Al Mutasim al Balushi producing several important saves. However, Al Nahda finally broke through in the 87th minute when Marwan Taib met a cross inside the area and headed into the far corner. Referee Naif al Balushi added ten minutes of stoppage time, but Al Nahda held firm to claim the win.
In Salalah, Al Nasr began their league campaign with a 2-0 victory over Fanja at Al Saada Sports Complex. After a cautious opening, Al Nasr gradually gained control and nearly scored in the 24th minute through Fahad Adel, whose shot cleared Bilal al Balushi’s crossbar.
The breakthrough arrived in the 30th minute when Malian midfielder Noumory Keita finished a counter-attack to put Al Nasr ahead. Mohammed Abdulhakeem Bait Sabee then doubled the advantage in first-half stoppage time, heading home from close range. Al Nasr remained compact after the restart and protected their lead to complete a composed opening-night victory.
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