MUSCAT, NOV 14
The Oman national football team suffered a 1-0 defeat against Tajikistan in the semifinal of the 52nd King’s Cup 2026 at Sisaket Provincial Stadium in Thailand on Saturday, missing out on a place in the final.
The Red Warriors will now compete in the third-place playoff on Tuesday against the losing side of the other semifinal between hosts Thailand and Brunei.
Oman will now face Brunei in the third-place playoff on Tuesday, following Brunei’s 6-0 defeat to hosts Thailand in the other semifinal. Thailand will meet Tajikistan in the final.
The opening stages were cautious, with both teams finding it difficult to break through defensively. Tajikistan threatened in the 17th minute through a dangerous aerial ball, which Oman’s defence successfully cleared.
In the 24th minute, Amjad al Harthi attempted a lobbed effort that landed on top of the net. Five minutes later, goalkeeper Ibrahim al Mukhaini cleared a Tajikistan corner.
Oman created another opportunity in the 33rd minute when Al Harthi advanced down the right and combined with Nasser al Rawahi, but the attack ended in a corner.
Tajikistan responded with attempts in the 39th and 42nd minutes, while Issam al Subhi threatened at the opposite end before the first half concluded goalless.
Oman started the second half with greater attacking intent. In the 49th minute, Jameel al Yahmadi fired over the crossbar following a pass from Al Rawahi.
The decisive moment arrived in the 59th minute when Tajikistan were awarded a penalty following a challenge on Umarboev. Sheriddin Boboev converted from the spot to give his side the lead.
Oman coach Tarik Sektioui introduced Mohammed al Ghafri for Al Subhi in the 72nd minute, seeking to strengthen the attack. Shortly afterwards, Al Mukhaini produced an important save to prevent Tajikistan from doubling their advantage.
In the 76th minute, Salah al Yahyaei delivered a dangerous cross from the right, but Tajikistan’s defence cleared it for a corner.
Substitute Zahir al Aghbari came close to equalising in the 82nd minute, forcing the opposing goalkeeper into a save from inside the penalty area.
Oman continued pressing during seven minutes of stoppage time, with Al Rawahi narrowly missing the target in the 96th minute.
Despite their late efforts, Oman failed to find an equaliser, leaving Tajikistan to advance to the final.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
