MUSCAT: In a pivotal moment, Youssef Amyn's initial strike played a crucial role in Iraq's resurgence, securing a 1-0 victory over Oman in their AFC Asian Qualifiers - Road to 26 Group B match at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex on Tuesday.
Amyn's goal was instrumental in propelling Iraq to a 3-0 lead, with South Korea leading the group by three points with 14. This defeat marked a significant setback for Oman, who now find themselves in fourth place in the standings, trailing Jordan by two points. Jordan, on the other hand, will face Kuwait in their next matchday.
The match began with Iraq exerting early pressure, with Abdullah Fawaz attempting a long-range shot that was unfortunately blocked. However, Iraq, having only managed a point in their previous two matches, believed they had taken the lead in the 15th minute when Merchas Doski passed the ball to Aymen Hussein, who was then able to score, only to be disallowed for offside.
Fawaz had another opportunity to score for Oman in the 27th minute following Zaid Tahseen's error, but his effort was wide. Similarly, in the 32nd minute, Iraq should have capitalized on an opportunity when Ali Jasim passed the ball into the box for Ahmed Yasin, who was unable to convert a header at the far post.
The game took a decisive turn in the 36th minute when Jasim skillfully maneuvered into the box, setting up Ahmed Yasi for a close-range finish, which Amyn successfully scored.
Oman, despite a chance to level the score in the 50th minute when Abdul Rahman Al Mushaifri's shot was blocked from above the box, managed to hold on for the three points.
Iraq will now face Kuwait in their upcoming matchday, while Oman will have to contend with South Korea in their next game.
