MUSCAT: The preliminary round of His Majesty the Sultan’s Cup concluded with intense matches that led to several teams advancing to the Round of 16, following competitions held on Thursday and Friday.
Ahli Sidab edge Samayil with a narrow win
Ahli Sidab secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Samayil in a match played on Thursday at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex. Mohamed Diallo scored the only goal of the match, ensuring Ahli Sidab’s qualification for the Round of 16.
Saham triumph over Sur with 3-1 win
At the Sohar Sports Complex, Saham earned a well-deserved 3-1 win over Sur in an open game filled with chances. Bassam al Saadi opened the scoring for Sohar in the 51st minute, followed by Zuhair al Hassani adding a second goal three minutes later after a brilliant midfield pass. In stoppage time, Abdulaziz al Balushi sealed the win with a goal in the 90+7 minute. Sur’s lone goal came from Mohamed Nasser in the 90+5 minute, but it was too late for a comeback. With this victory, Saham advance to face Ahli Sidab in the Round of 16.
Al Salam overcome Al Mudhaibi in extra time
The match between Al Salam and Al Mudhaibi, held at the Ibra Sports Complex, ended in a goalless draw in regular time. At the start of extra time, Al Salam scored their first goal through Omar al Musallami from a penalty kick. Hussein al Maamari then doubled the lead after a quick counterattack, securing Al Salam's spot in the next round, where they will face Dhofar in the Round of 16.
Al Shabab down Muscat in thrilling encounter
In an exciting match at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex, Al Shabab defeated Muscat 3-2. Mohamed al Ghafri shined, scoring two goals for Al Shabab in the 18th and 46th minutes, with Issam al Subhi adding a third in the 87th minute. Muscat fought back with goals from Mundhir al Wahaibi in the 66th minute and Mohamed al Kharassi in the 72nd, but their efforts fell short of levelling the score.
Ibri advance with a big win over Salalah
Ibri secured a commanding 3-0 victory over Salalah at Al Saada Sports Complex. Yousef al Khalili opened the scoring from a penalty kick, with Mohsen al Khamisi adding a second goal by following up on a rebound. Branly Augustin confirmed the win with a third goal, ensuring Ibri's advancement to face Al Rustaq in the Round of 16.
The tournament will continue in a knockout format in the Round of 16, with the preliminary stage setting the tone for intense competition in the upcoming rounds.
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