MUSCAT: Oman suffer a shock 2-0 defeat against Tajikistan in the concluding match of Group J in the AFC U-17 Asian Cup qualifiers for the Saudi Arabia 2025 finals. With this victory, Tajikistan secure the direct spot from the group to the finals, while Oman must wait to see if they qualify as one of the best second-placed teams from other groups. All ten group winners, along with the five best-placed runners-up, will advance to the 20th edition of the finals, scheduled to take place in Saudi Arabia from April 3-20, 2025.
Oman missed a golden opportunity to at least secure a draw, which would have been enough for the team to advance to the Asian finals. Tajikistan, however, completed their campaign perfectly with three successive victories over Singapore, Guam and Oman. The other two teams, Singapore and Guam, had already been eliminated.
The first half of the clash between Oman and Tajikistan ended in a goalless draw, with both teams displaying fierce competition. However, Tajikistan broke the deadlock in the 71st minute through Muhammad Nazriev, who then struck again 10 minutes later to secure their win and qualification for the finals.
Oman began their campaign in the Asian qualifiers with a strong performance, defeating hosts Singapore 5-0 before showcasing an impressive display with an 18-0 win over Guam. Oman hold six points and sit in second place, competing for one of the five best second-placed team spots alongside Iraq, China, Vietnam and Qatar, who currently top this position among the ten groups.
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