By SCM Sports Writer in Qatar
AL RAYYAN, QATAR – Morocco were reduced to ten men but still held on for a dull 0-0 draw against Oman in the FIFA Arab Cup Group B clash. The real star of the show?
The stunning World Cup venue, the Education City Stadium, which provided a spectacular backdrop to a game that lacked any real spark.
The stadium, an architectural marvel in Al Rayyan, was lit up and offered a dazzling setting for the night fixture. It’s part of the mega-bucks complex that will host matches in the 2026 World Cup, and it certainly looked the business.
But the action on the pitch failed to live up to the spectacular surroundings.
Morocco, favourites for the group, failed to break down a stubborn Omani defence, despite having the lion’s share of possession.
The Atlas Lions, backed by a significant portion of the nearly 45,000 capacity crowd, had the best chance of the first half, only to see Omani keeper Ibrahim Al Mukhaini pull off a decent save.
The biggest talking point came after the break when Morocco’s star striker Abderrazzaq Hamdallah saw RED for a reckless challenge, leaving his team with ten men for the final half hour.
Yet, even with a numerical advantage, Oman couldn’t find the net, with the game petering out to a goalless stalemate.
The result means Morocco remain on course for the knockouts, but will feel they missed a golden chance to secure top spot early on.
For Oman, the draw keeps their slim qualification hopes alive, but they were ultimately frustrated not to capitalise on their man advantage at the magnificent venue.
