Wednesday 26 / March / 2025
MUSCAT: After a spirited 1-1 draw against hosts South Korea last week, Oman’s Red Warriors are brimming with confidence as they set their sights on a crucial victory against Kuwait on Tuesday in Group B of the AFC Asian Qualifiers - Road to 26.
The match will take place at Jaber Al Ahmad International Stadium in Ardhiyah, Kuwait, with a kick-off at 10:15 pm Oman time.
Oman coach Rasheed Jaber is determined to see his side build on their impressive result in Goyang against South Korea, a team they fought to a hard-fought draw with.
“I’m very pleased with how the team performed against South Korea. We showed resilience and character, and that gives us a lot of confidence going into the match against Kuwait,” Jaber said.
“Our focus is clear – we need to minimise mistakes, stay organised defensively, and capitalise on the opportunities we create. A win will give a big boost to our qualification hopes and bring us closer to the next round.”
Oman’s defence was solid against the Koreans, and Jaber will look to ensure his players remain sharp and disciplined as they face Kuwait, who are still reeling from a late 2-2 draw with Iraq.
The Omani coach knows the importance of securing three points to maintain momentum.
“We still have a long way to go, but we must take advantage of this opportunity. Kuwait will be tough opponents, but we are focused and ready. Our goal is to build on the result against South Korea and keep pushing forward,” Jaber added.
Like Oman, Kuwait are also coming off a draw in their previous match against Iraq, where they let a two-goal lead slip in the final moments.
Kuwait’s head coach, Antonio Pizzi, reflected on the painful draw against Iraq, acknowledging that his side must improve if they are to challenge Oman. “The draw was a painful result, but we are still focused. We have seen significant improvement in the players’ performances, and we will be ready for Oman,” Pizzi said.
With a win on Tuesday, Oman can extend their lead to 10 points.
Ahead of Tuesday’s games, South Korea top Group B with 15 points from seven matches in the six-team pool.
Jordan are second with 12 points, while Iraq are third with 12 points, only behind on goal difference. Oman are in fourth place with seven points, while Kuwait trail by two points, with Palestine sitting at the bottom with three points.
The top two sides qualify automatically for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while the third and fourth-placed teams from the three groups will advance to the fourth round.
The six teams in the fourth round will be divided into two groups, with the group winners securing a spot in the World Cup.
The second-placed teams from each group in the fourth round will face off in a two-legged play-off in November 2025 to determine which team will move on to the inter-confederation play-offs.
