Oman and Qatar played out a tense goalless draw in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Asian Qualifiers Round 4 Group A at Jassim Bin Hamad Stadium, Al Rayyam.
Qatar started brightly, with Sultan Al Brake and Edmílson Junior causing early discomfort for Oman’s defence. However, a misplaced backpass from Al Brake nearly gifted Oman a chance, forcing goalkeeper Mahmud Abunada to hastily clear under pressure from Issam Al Sabhi.
The hosts had the first real sight of goal in the 13th minute when Boualem Khoukhi’s long-range strike flew narrowly off target. Oman responded in the 27th minute through Al Sabhi, who turned neatly past his marker and unleashed a fierce left-footed shot that was well held by Abunada.
Qatar nearly found a breakthrough six minutes later when Mohammad Al Mannai’s clever through ball sent Akram Afif racing toward goal, but Thani Al Rushaidi intervened with a crucial block. Oman came close just before the break through Nasser Al Rawahi, whose glancing header from a corner drifted inches wide.
The second half continued with both teams probing but failing to find the killer touch. Akram Afif, Qatar’s talisman, threatened again in the 49th minute with a dazzling solo run through the middle before dragging his right-footed effort just wide.
Oman had a golden chance to snatch the lead in the 69th minute when Abunada misjudged a cross and left his goal unguarded, but Abdullah Fawaz’s long-range attempt missed the target.
Qatar head coach Julen Lopetegui introduced Almoez Ali in the 57th minute to inject fresh energy into the attack, but the Omani defence held firm to secure a valuable away point.
With both sides now locked in a tight qualification race, Oman will look to capitalize in their next encounter against UAE, while Qatar will aim to bounce back in their subsequent fixture.
The result means both nations remain level on points, with Oman next facing the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Sunday, while Qatar will meet the Emiratis three days later in what could be a decisive fixture in the group. Only the group winners will secure automatic qualification for the tournament to be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
Credit Photo : OFA
