MUSCAT: In a surprising turn of events, Sur team emerged victorious against their hosts Dhofar with a close score of 1-0 during a heated match at Al Saada Complex on Friday. This clash marked the start of the second round of the Omantel League.
During the first half of the game, both teams had equal level performance, resulting in a deadlock. Notably, Sur missed a golden opportunity to take the lead when they were awarded a penalty kick in the 31st minute. Mohammad al Mukhaini failed to capitalise on this chance as Dhofar goalkeeper Mazen al Kasbi skillfully thwarted his attempt.
The intensity persisted into the second half, with both teams maintaining their competitive spirit. Sur endured until the 67th minute when Ahed al Hudaifi of Sur managed to break the deadlock with a decisive goal. Despite subsequent efforts from both sides, neither team managed to find the back of the net again. Consequently, the match concluded with Sur securing a 1-0 victory.
Sur's total points tally increased to 4, following their earlier draw against Al Rustaq in the opening round. Meanwhile, Dhofar's score remained at 3 points, acquired from their victory against the promoted Al Wehda team from the first division.
FIRST WIN FOR IBRI
Debutants Ibri Club demonstrated their prowess by clinching a 1-0 victory over Al Shabab at the Ibri Complex on Friday.
The match kicked off with the Al Shabab team maintaining ball possession, while Ibri strategically adopted a defensive stance and capitalised on counterattacks.
The initial half-hour of the game passed without any notable chances for either side. However, a pivotal moment arrived in the 33rd minute when Ibri's Youssef al Ghafri orchestrated a remarkable pass, leading to a goal by the club's professional player Bruno. This breakthrough set the stage for Ibri's continued pressure, with Bruno missing several subsequent opportunities to widen the lead before the close of the first half.
The second half witnessed an improved performance from the Al Shabab, who managed to create multiple scoring opportunities. Nonetheless, these efforts failed to yield an equaliser. On the flip side, Ibri maintained their defensive strategy, relying on well-timed counter-attacks to maintain a clean sheet. Ultimately, the match concluded with Ibri securing a 1-0 victory.
Thus, Ibri scored the first 3 points in the league campaign, as their first match against Al Seeb was postponed, due to the latter’s participation in the preliminary round of the AFC Champions League. Al Shabab remained at one point from their first-round tie against defending champions Al Nahda.
The action-packed second round continues on Saturday with a match between Al Rustaq and Sohar at Al Rustaq Complex Stadium and Oman Club meet Bahla at Al Seeb Stadium.
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