Muscat, NOV 7
Saham and Bahla drew 1-1 in the Omantel League match at the Sohar Sports Complex on Wednesday. The match was postponed from the second round.
The match saw a varied performance between the two halves. The first half was marked by Bahla's clear dominance as they successfully set the pace of the game, reaching Saham's goal early. Bahla scored the first goal in the 25th minute when Abdulsalam al Shukaili fired a precise shot into the net, capitalising on a defensive error by Saham that left him space to shoot. Bahla continued to press after the goal, aiming to increase their lead, but Saham's defence and goalkeeper successfully held off multiple attempts, ending the first half with Bahla leading 1-0.
In the second half, it was evident that Saham’s coach, Blazer Roberto, made impactful tactical adjustments. The team returned with renewed spirit and a more organised approach. These adjustments quickly paid off when they scored the equaliser in the 48th minute, with foreign professional Batory Emmanuel seizing a cross and striking it powerfully into Bahla goalkeeper Salah bin Saleh al Handhali’s net, bringing hope back to his team.
Following the equaliser, the match intensity increased, with both teams exchanging attacks and creating several dangerous opportunities. However, neither team managed to convert these chances into goals. Bahla’s midfield played strongly to prevent Saham from advancing, while Saham's defence remained solid, determined not to concede another goal.
As the game neared its end, Bahla coach Abdelhalim al Warimi aimed to strengthen his defence to secure the draw, while Saham intensified their offensive efforts, pushing for a win, especially with enthusiastic support from the crowd. Despite this, Bahla’s defence held firm, and the referee blew the final whistle, signalling a 1-1 draw.
With this result, Saham raised their total to 10 points, placing them sixth in the league standings, while Bahla reached 9 points, positioning them in eighth. This draw keeps both teams in the mid-table, away from the relegation zone.
Al Nahda currently lead the league with 25 points, followed by Seeb with 21 points and Oman Club are third with 18 points. On the other hand, Sur and Rustaq are in the relegation spots, with Sur second to last with 7 points and Rustaq at the bottom with 4 points.
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