MUSCAT: Defending champions Al Nahda will chase for a win when they meet Sur club on Thursday in the last 16 round of the HM Cup Football Championship. The knockout match will be held at Al Buraimi Sports Complex and will start at 18:15. In another match on Thursday, nine- time winners Fanja will take on Al Khabourah at the Nizwa Sports Complex with kick off at 18:10.
Al Nahda, coached by national experienced coach Hamed al Azani, will look to advance in the tournament to defend their title. They had won the first HM Cup title by defeating Seeb 2-0 in the last edition's final.
On the other hand, Sur will play the match away from their home as the opponent side will get the desired support from their fans. Sur managed to earn ticket in the last 16 as they defeated Muscat 4-1 in the round of 32 while it is the first match for Al Buraimi based team as the draw progressed them to this round. Sur’s last title in the prestigious cup was in 2018-19 season. The four-time champions are capable of springing a surprise in Thursday's encounter with their vast experience in the HM Cup games.
In the other clash between first division league teams Fanja and Al Khabourah, both teams will look to register a win. Fanja have the home advantage with Al Khabourah putting up a strong challenge. Nine-time champions Fanja last won the title in 2013-14 season.
The remaining matches of the last 16 round will be held on Friday as Bahla will host Salalah at Nizwa Sports Complex while Oman club will face Al Mudhaibi club at ROP stadium in Al Wattayah. Four-time winners Seeb meet Sohar in a tight clash while five-time champions Al Nasr take on Al Talea. Record 10-time winners Dhofar meet Saham at Al Saada Stadium while Al Rustaq will host Ibri at their home in Al Rustaq Sports Complex.
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