Oman boss Tarek Sektioui warns of tough Iraq test in Gulf Cup 27 opener

Oman head coach Tarek Sektioui has stepped up preparations for the opening match against Iraq at Gulf Cup 27, describing the first-round fixture as a difficult challenge in what he considers the tournament’s strongest group.

Oman will face Iraq at Prince Abdullah Al-Faisal Stadium, with Saudi Arabia and Kuwait also competing in Group A. The four teams are seeking one of the two places available in the semi-finals.

Sektioui said Oman had taken Iraq’s previous results into account but stressed that the circumstances surrounding the current teams were different.

“We take the national team’s previous results into consideration. Historically, we have had our moments in past tournaments, but the situation is different now. We are in the process of building a new team in a smart and different way,” he said at a news conference.

The Oman manager added that his squad was prepared in every respect and had developed a strong team spirit as it sought to reach peak fitness and form.

“We are ready in all aspects, and there is a high level of spirit within the team as we work towards the best possible preparation,” Sektioui said.

“We will play in a compact tournament featuring strong national teams. Our objective is a long-term one, and we have a long-term vision to build a competitive team.”

Sektioui also highlighted the progress made by Iraq and changes to their squad since the group of players who represented the country at the World Cup.

“We will face an improving Iraq team, which has made a number of changes to the squad that took part in the World Cup,” he said. “We will be playing in the strongest group in the tournament.”

Oman aim to reward supporters

Oman midfielder Ahmed Al-Rawahi said the team hoped to benefit from the backing of its supporters during the competition and praised the welcome provided by Saudi Arabia.

“I thank Saudi Arabia for its hospitality. The atmosphere and training facilities are excellent,” Al-Rawahi said.

“Our supporters have a special presence at Gulf tournaments, and we are working to make them happy and compete strongly.”

Al-Rawahi also emphasised the importance of the players’ mental preparation and praised Sektioui’s experience in that area.

“The mental aspect for the players is important, and we have an experienced coach in this regard,” he said. “Since his arrival, he has made a number of changes.”

“We have a blend of experienced players and younger players, and we will benefit from that in our matches.”