Oman Aims for Strong Start Against Qatar in World Cup Qualifiers

In a highly anticipated opening match of the fourth round of the AFC Asian Qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Oman will face hosts Qatar at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium today. The encounter marks the beginning of a crucial journey for both teams as they vie for a spot in the next phase of qualification.

Oman’s head coach, Carlos Queiroz, acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by the Qatari team but expressed optimism about his side’s preparations. He emphasized the importance of a strong start, stating, “We’re excited to begin our campaign against Qatar. The team has prepared well, and we believe in our ability to get a positive result to kick off our journey.”

In this Group A opener, Oman will compete against Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. Only the group winner will secure a direct berth in the next phase, while the runner-up will enter a two-legged playoff for a final chance at qualification. This makes every match critical for Oman as they pursue their first-ever appearance in the World Cup.

Queiroz’s Return and Team Readiness

The Portuguese coach, who has previous experience in Qatar, expressed his delight at returning to the country. “It’s always a pleasure to be back in Qatar after having spent a wonderful time here. We hope to play at a level that reflects the aspirations of our fans in Oman,” Queiroz added during the pre-match press conference.

Queiroz recognized the inherent pressure that accompanies high-stakes qualifiers. “Pressure is part of football; you take risks, you gamble at times. But I have full trust in my players and their ability to stay focused and avoid costly mistakes in such an important match,” he remarked. This confidence underscores the team’s preparation and mindset ahead of the match.

Omani defender Ali Al Busaidi also shared his thoughts on the upcoming challenge, stating, “We’re fully prepared for this stage. We understand the responsibility on our shoulders and are committed to doing everything we can to qualify for the World Cup.” His words reflect the determination and resolve within the team as they face the daunting task ahead.

Aiming for World Cup History

Oman’s quest for a maiden FIFA World Cup appearance adds an extra layer of significance to this match. The players are aware of the historical implications and are ready to put forth their best effort. The upcoming clash with Qatar is not just another game; it is a pivotal moment in Oman’s football history.

As the match approaches, the atmosphere is charged with anticipation. Fans and players alike are eager to see if Oman can translate their preparations into a strong performance against Qatar. With high stakes and a passionate crowd expected at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium, the stage is set for an exciting showdown in the AFC Asian Qualifiers.