Wednesday 19 / March / 2025
Muscat: Oman head into a crucial showdown against South Korea on Thursday, knowing that only a victory will keep their FIFA World Cup 2026 qualification hopes alive. The match in Goyang, South Korea, will kick off at 3pm, Oman time.
Rashid Jaber’s side, currently fourth in Group B with six points, must secure maximum points at Goyang Stadium to stay in contention. While the top two spots look out of reach for Oman (six points), Kuwait (four) and Palestine (three), victories in their next two matches will hugely boost the chances of Red Warriors of advancing to the playoffs for the additional two tickets to the Finals.
Meanwhile, South Korea, leading the group with 14 points, are on the verge of sealing their 11th consecutive World Cup berth and will look to capitalise on home advantage.
Oman will have to navigate the vital fixture without the services of experienced midfielder Harib Al Saadi, who is suspended due to yellow card accumulation.
Coach Jaber emphasised the importance of tactical discipline and defensive solidity, as Oman seek to overcome a South Korean side that remains unbeaten in the qualifiers. Oman have struggled with consistency throughout the campaign, but they will take confidence from their ability to cause problems for top teams.
South Korea, meanwhile, face a defensive setback with the absence of key centre-back Kim Min-jae due to an Achilles tendon injury.
Head coach Hong Myung-bo has expressed frustration over Bayern Munich’s management of Kim’s condition, stating that earlier precautions might have prevented the injury. In response, FC Seoul’s Kim Ju-sung has been called up to bolster the defensive unit.
Speaking ahead of the game, Jaber acknowledged the enormity of the task but remained optimistic about his team’s chances. “Every player understands the significance of this match. We are ready to fight for three points and keep our World Cup hopes alive,” Jaber said.
He also highlighted Oman’s need to stay organised against South Korea’s attacking firepower.
Hong Myung-bo, on the other hand, urged his side to maintain focus and avoid complacency despite their strong position.
“We know what Oman can bring to the table. They are a team that fights for every ball and can be dangerous on the counter,” he said. The South Korean coach also pointed out that his team must adapt defensively due to key absences.
For Oman, this is a must-win scenario. A defeat would severely dent their chances of securing automatic qualification, while a victory would reinvigorate their campaign ahead of their final group game against Kuwait.
The Red Warriors must find a way to disrupt South Korea’s rhythm and take their chances when they come.
For South Korea, a win would all but confirm their spot at the 2026 World Cup. With Jordan awaiting in their final qualifier, the Taeguk Warriors will look to wrap up qualification in front of their home fans in Goyang.
While South Korea will enter the match as favourites given their home advantage and superior form, Oman will be determined to produce an upset.
The visitors will need a disciplined defensive effort and must capitalise on any scoring opportunities that arise. If they can frustrate the hosts and remain compact, Oman could push for a crucial result.
