MUSCAT: The Omani national blind goalball team lost to Iraq 11-1 in its first match in the fourth edition of the West Asian Paralympic Games (WAPG) at Al Thiqah Club for Disabled in Sharjah, UAE from January 27 to February 3.
The Iraqi team started the match well and managed to take early lead of three goals through their players Mustafa Abdullah and Ahmed Hussein. Meanwhile, the Omani players were unable to penetrate the solid defence of the Iraqi team. Following this, the coach of the
national team, Asaad al Zahli, requested a timeout to instruct the players, but the situation remained the same with Oman failing to score while the Iraqi team added a fourth goal. Oman continued to struggle to score due to the precise defence of the Iraqi team, with the latter
adding a fifth goal through Mustafa Abdullah.
Subsequently, the team made a change with Khamees al Sultani replacing Saqr al Qasimi, but Oman's attempts to score were thwarted by the Iraqi players' accurate reading of the incoming balls. The referee awarded a penalty to Iraq which was saved by Khamees al Sultani, but Iraqi player Karar Dakhil managed to score a sixth goal. Iraq extended their lead by adding a seventh goal through Mustafa Abdullah, and eighth goal through Ahmed Hussein, prompting the coach of the Omani team to request another timeout in this half to guide the players. The first half ended with Iraq leading 8-0.
In the second half, Oman's Emad al Hajji succeeded in scoring the team's first goal.
However, Iraq responded by scoring a ninth goal, continuing their scoring spree with a 10th goal. Iraq maintained their dominance to score an 11th goal, and winning the match 11-1.
Commenting on the match, Akram bin Saif al Maawali, manager of Oman team, attributed the loss to the experience gap between the two teams. He acknowledged Iraq's strength as a frontrunner in the championship, citing their extensive experience and well-established league structure. Despite the challenging start, Al Maawali expressed confidence in Omani players' ability to bounce back in the upcoming matches.
Looking ahead, Oman's national athletics team is set to begin their participation in the West Asian Paralympic Games on Tuesday.
Mohammed al Mashaikhi a team member mentioned they are all geared up and optimistic about their chances, aiming for a podium finish despite facing tough competition. He highlighted the excitement and challenge of the tournament, with teams competing fiercely for medals.
Al Mashaikhi emphasised their aspiration to make Oman proud, hoping to hear their national anthem play multiple times during the awards ceremony. He mentioned their intense training sessions at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex, especially in the weeks leading up to the
championship, instilling confidence in their abilities despite their modest preparations.
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