Muscat: The Oman Olympic football team showcased a remarkable display against the host, Algerian counterpart, to a goalless draw in a thrilling match at the May 19 Stadium on Monday. This captivating encounter took place within the framework of the first group competitions of the Arab Sports Games.
From the very beginning of the match, the Oman Olympic team exhibited relentless offensive pressure, spearheaded by Abdulmajeed al Balushi, who came close to scoring the opening goal with a magnificent header that narrowly missed the mark. Responding with determination, the Algerian team launched a dangerous counterattack, only to be deftly tackled by the solid Omani defence. The Omani team had several opportunities to convert their chances into goals but was unable to capitalise on them. In the 42nd minute, the Algerian team scored, but the goal was subsequently disallowed due to offside.
The second half commenced with both teams trying to break the deadlock. The Algerian team sought to assert their attacking style, creating multiple scoring opportunities that were diligently thwarted by the resilient defences and agile Omani goalkeeper. Oman team, on the other hand, relied on long balls and rebounds to launch their own counterattacks. Despite the intensity and determination exhibited by both teams, neither side managed to find the back of the net, resulting in a hard-fought 0-0 draw.
Oman team currently holds the third position in their group, with one point earned from the first round. While Sudan emerged victorious in their match against Lebanon, securing result 3-0 victory.
In another gripping encounter in the second group competitions, the Saudi Olympic team a 1-1 draw against Syria in the first round. The match took place at the Martyr Suleiman Daoudi Hamlawi stadium. Mardik Mardikian scored the lone goal for Syria, while Suhaib al Zaid found the net for the Saudi team.
Furthermore, Mauritania and Palestine engaged in an equally competitive contest, ultimately resulting in a 1-1 draw. Ahmed Alsheikh al Wali contributed the goal for the Mauritanian team, while Ali Rabie netted for Palestine.
Consequently, all four teams find themselves evenly poised with one point and an equal goal difference, fuelling the competition in the group from the very outset.
Looking ahead, the Oman team is set to face Lebanon in their next fixture, scheduled for July 5th. These Arab Games fixtures serve as an ideal preparation for Oman before their forthcoming clashes against Syria and Jordan in the Asian qualifiers.
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