Muscat: In a thrilling display of determination, Mohsin Al Ghassani emerged as a hero for Oman, scoring the decisive goal in a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Palestine during their journey to the 26th Group B match at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex on Thursday.
This win rejuvenated the Red Warriors' campaign, propelling them to six points, while Palestine remained at two.
Both teams entered the match with a shared objective: to secure a victory that would reignite their hopes.
However, the game commenced with a slow start, with Oman's Nasser Al Rawahi being the first to have a clear shot on goal in the seventh minute. Despite his effort being sent wide from the right side of the box, Palestine had to wait until the 24th minute for their opportunity, which was successfully converted by Oday Kharoub's shot from just outside the box.
In the 29th minute, Oman's Ahmed Al Khamisi had a chance to put Oman ahead, but his shot lacked the necessary pace and power to challenge Palestine goalkeeper Rami Hamada, who made an effortless save.
Palestine responded with their first goal two minutes later, as Wessam Abou Ali's left-footed shot from outside the box found its way into the net, reducing Oman's lead to just one point.
The visitors continued to press their advantage, and in the 33rd minute, Wessam Abou Ali's attempt from a high angle was met with a full stretch save from Oman's custodian, Ibrahim Al Mukhaini, ensuring the tie remained level at the break.
Having observed Palestine's strong performance in the first half, Oman, under the guidance of Rashid Jaber, had to adapt when the match resumed. However, Oman struggled to regain their momentum.
Indeed, it was Palestine who appeared to be the more formidable team, with goalkeeper Al Mukhaini on high alert to block Wessam Abou Ali's shot in the 69th minute.
Al Mukhaini was at the peak of his performance two minutes later, thwarting attempts from Zeid Qunbar and Abou Ali.
As the game progressed, Palestine began to show signs of fatigue, which Oman capitalized on, adopting a more aggressive playing style.
A swift break in the 83rd minute saw Issam Al Sabhi surge forward, with a substitute's shot being blocked by Hamada, only for the ball to fall kindly for Al Ghassani to score the winning goal.
Oman will now face Iraq in Muscat on Tuesday, while Palestine will take on South Korea in their upcoming match.
