MUSCAT: The national football team players are gearing up for two decisive World Cup qualifying matches, which are scheduled against Palestine and Iraq on November 14 and November 19, respectively. Under the guidance of the experienced national head coach Rasheed Jaber, the team’s training camp has completed one week since it started last week at the Seeb Stadium as the team sets the stage for their pursuit of a coveted spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The coaching staff recently bolstered the squad by calling up two more players, including Motaz Saleh and Ali al Rushaidi, enhancing the team's depth and flexibility.
Meanwhile, Ali al Busaidy suffered a setback after sustaining a right-leg injury and is currently under medical treatment. His health status will require some recovery treatments until he gets fit to return to the field, and it is expected that he will miss the two upcoming games. Moreover, Salah al Yahyaei is suffering an injury too, alongside the injury of Yazeed al Maashani. Nearly all selected players are now in attendance, and Mohsin al Ghassani of Bangkok United is set to join shortly.
The camp started with rigorous physical conditioning designed to enhance players' stamina, speed, and strength. The focus has since shifted to technical and tactical drills that hone team cohesion, positioning, and strategic clarity across every phase of play. The 'Red Warriors' will aim to secure crucial points in their upcoming games on Thursday and November 19 at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex, with the expectation of a large home crowd to support the team and help clinch the winning points.
Following a challenging qualification journey so far, the Red Warriors currently hold fourth place in the standings with three points, trailing leaders South Korea with 10 points. Jordan and Iraq follow the leaders with 7 points. The recent 4-0 defeat against Jordan in Amman underscored the need for a strong comeback, with the squad now rallying to turn the tide in these must-win home fixtures to keep their hopes alive.
The team's lineup boasts a robust mix of experienced players and young faces in almost all positions. The defensive side is anchored by experienced players, including Mohammed al Musallami and Ahmed al Khamisi, while a dynamic midfield is led by Harib al Saadi and the new young player Hussain al Shahri, alongside their teammates in this position. The attacking front features key players like Omar al Maliki, Mohsin al Ghassani and Hatim al Roushdi, who will seek to exploit every opportunity to push Oman’s tally forward.
With support from home fans and meticulous preparation by the national team’s committee campaign, 'We are all with you', the Red Warriors are working hard to deliver their all as they step onto the pitch to keep their World Cup dream alive.
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