Oman's lackluster performance resulted in a 1-1 draw against Kyrgyz Republic in a Group F match of the AFC Asian Cup Qatar 2023 in Doha on Thursday, leading to their elimination from the competition.
Despite their efforts, Oman only managed to secure 2 points from three matches, finishing third in the group behind Saudi Arabia and Thailand. This disappointing outcome follows their earlier defeat against Saudi Arabia and a goalless draw against Thailand.
The Red Warriors, led by coach Branko Ivankovic, had initially shown promise in their match against Saudi Arabia but failed to replicate that performance against Thailand and Kyrgyz Republic, ultimately shattering their hopes of progressing further in the tournament.
On Thursday, Muhsen Al Ghassani's goal in the eighth minute gave Oman hope of qualifying with a win. However, Joel Kojo's 80th minute equalizer for Kyrgyz Republic shattered Oman's chances of advancing to the knockout stage. Kyrgyz Republic finished at the bottom of the group, and both Oman and Kyrgyz Republic were eliminated from the continental showpiece with the draw.
In another match of Group F, Saudi Arabia and Thailand played to a 0-0 draw at Education City Stadium. This result, combined with Oman's 1-1 draw against Kyrgyz Republic, secured the top spot in the group for the Green Falcons and second place for Thailand. Unfortunately, Oman's two points were not enough for them to progress as one of the best-ranked third-placed teams.
