Tuesday 25 / March / 2025
MUSCAT: Oman secured their place in the quarter-finals of the AFC Beach Soccer Asian Cup Thailand 2025, storming to a 6-3 victory over Malaysia in Pattaya, Thailand, on Sunday.
With a perfect record in Group D, winning their second consecutive game, the team has sent a clear message of intent, as they continue their pursuit of championship glory and World Cup qualification.
Yahya Al Muraiki, who scored twice in the third period, acknowledged the immense expectations placed on the team.
"We are carrying the expectations of Oman," he said. "The responsibility isn’t a burden - it's a motivation. We are here to bring pride to our fans and fulfill their dreams."
His words reflect the deep resolve within the squad, managed by long-serving coach Talib Hilal, as they look to reclaim the heights of their 2015 championship success.
Al Muraiki also shared his thoughts on the team's performance. "We achieved the most important goal by securing full marks from two consecutive rounds, despite the challenges we faced against Malaysia, who delivered a strong performance.”
“We have great ambitions - first, to qualify for the World Cup finals, and then to win the Asian championship title with this team, which blends experience with youthful energy."
The match unfolded with Oman seizing control early. Khalid Al Oraimi’s shot was cleared off the line by Malaysia’s Mohamad Norazman, and Salim Al Oraimi’s overhead kick struck the post.
In the third minute, Oman took the lead when Abdullah Masoud rounded Malaysian goalkeeper Mohamad Syujak to calmly finish into an empty net.
Oman continued to apply pressure, and in the 10th minute, Mushel Al Araimi doubled their advantage with a brilliant curling shot into the far corner.
Malaysia fought back in the second period. Muhamad Hafizal narrowed the deficit with a low shot past Omani goalkeeper Younis Al Owaisi in the 18th minute, and just a minute later, Muhammad Quishairie pounced on a loose ball to equalise.
But Oman swiftly regained the upper hand in the 24th minute, when Musallam Al Araimi weaved through two defenders and slotted a low shot past Syujak to restore their lead.
The third period saw Oman take full control. Al Muraiki struck in the 25th minute, with a deflected shot wrong-footing Syujak. Three minutes later, he sealed his brace, fending off a challenge to blast a low shot into the net.
Malaysia responded through Hafizal in the 31st minute, but Oman’s Mandhar Al Araimi added another in the final minute to secure the win.
Oman now turn their focus to Bahrain, set to face them on Tuesday to determine the top spot in Group D.
