Kuala Lumpur: Oman will feel they are primed for a best ever AFC Asian Cup™ finish at Qatar 2023 after a recent run of commendable results.

Branko Ivankovic’s side have continued from where they left off in a stirring FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 qualifying campaign and look well equipped to launch a challenge for the AFC Asian Cup title. 

Factfile

FIFA World Ranking: 72
Previous Appearances: 4
Best Finish: Round of 16
2019 Result: Round of 16
Head Coach: Branko Ivankovic (CRO)
Fun Fact: Except for 2011, Oman have appeared in the Finals of every edition since 2004

Despite having to contend with the likes of Saudi Arabia, Japan, Australia, China PR and Vietnam, Oman finished a commendable fourth in Group B of the AFC Asian Qualifiers – Road to Qatar.

They will renew their rivalry with Saudi Arabia in Group F of Qatar 2023 and they will not be lacking confidence despite their West Asian rivals being among the pre-tournament favourites for the title.

In Ivankovic, they have a highly experienced head coach and the Croatian will be plotting for maximum points against Thailand and Kyrgyz Republic, the other teams in Group F. 

Their 2019 Round of 16 finish was the best Oman have achieved at the continental stage but given the quality at his disposal, Ivankovic will be targeting the quarter-finals and beyond.

Oman’s Group F fixtures
16 January 
v Saudi Arabia (20:30 local time, Khalifa International Stadium)
21 January 
v Thailand (17:30 local time, Abdullah Bin Khalifa Stadium)
25 January
v Kyrgyz Republic (18:00 local time, Abdullah Bin Khalifa Stadium)

By Nadeem Faisal Baiga