Morocco and Oman Battle to Stalemate in FIFA Arab Cup Clash

In a tense encounter at the Education City Stadium in Al Rayyan, Morocco and Oman played to a goalless draw during their FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025 Group B match on December 8, 2025. The match saw Morocco finish with ten men after their captain, Abderrazak Hamdallah, received a red card in the 53rd minute.

Morocco started strong, aiming to control possession and dictate the pace of the game. Key to their attacking efforts was Amine Zouhzouh, who looked to penetrate the well-organized defence set up by Oman’s coach, Carlos Queiroz.

During the first half, Morocco created two significant chances, both falling to Hamdallah. In the 29th minute, he connected with a pass from Zouhzouh, unleashing a low shot from the edge of the box that was expertly saved by Omani goalkeeper Ibrahim Al Mukhaini. Just before halftime, Zouhzouh delivered a cross into the area where Hamdallah managed to flick the ball toward goal, but Al Mukhaini was again on hand to thwart the attempt.

Crucial Moments Shift Match Dynamics

The game’s pivotal moment occurred shortly after the break when Hamdallah attempted an acrobatic play for a high ball. Unfortunately, his boot struck Omani defender Musab Al Shaqsy in the face, resulting in a bloody injury. The referee deemed it dangerous play, issuing Hamdallah a straight red card that left Morocco a man down.

Empowered by their numerical advantage, Oman intensified their offensive efforts, spending significant time in Morocco’s half. Despite their pressure, the Moroccan defence, anchored by Soufiane Bouftini and Marouane Saadane, held firm, successfully neutralizing Oman’s attempts to score.

Morocco resorted to counterattacks, yet they could not capitalize on any opportunities. As the match drew to a close, Oman continued to press for a breakthrough but ultimately failed to find the net, leading to a final score of 0-0.

Standings and Upcoming Matches

Following this match, Morocco now sits on four points from their opening two games, having secured one win and one draw. In contrast, Oman remains at one point from two matches after their earlier defeat against Saudi Arabia.

Morocco’s next challenge will be against Saudi Arabia, while Oman is set to face Comoros on December 8, 2025. Both matches will be crucial for determining the teams’ standings in the group as the tournament progresses.