Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – Oman were drawn alongside hosts Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and Palestine in Group A of the 2027 Asian Cup following Saturday’s draw in Riyadh.

The draw had originally been scheduled for April 11 in the Saudi capital but was postponed because of the Middle East conflict to ensure full attendance and participation from all concerned parties, national associations and partners.

Oman will be aiming to progress deep into the continental competition but coach Tarek Sektioui is aware of the challenges that await him.

“I know the other teams in the group, having watched them during the (FIFA) Arab Cup. I believe we will be playing in one of the toughest groups,” Sektioui said.

“There are no easy matches in a tournament like this. Every team we face must be respected, and we must work hard both on and off the field to make a difference.”

Oman will take on Kuwait in their opening match at the King Saud University Stadium on January 8. The Red Warriors will then play Saudi Arabia on January 12 at the King Fahd Sports City Stadium before concluding their group engagement with a match against Palestine at King Saud University Stadium on January 17. 

Elsewhere, two-time defending champions Qatar were drawn alongside Japan in Group F in a repeat of the 2019 final, which the Qataris won before retaining the title again in 2023.

The tournament will run from January 7 to February 5, 2027, with 24 teams taking part.

Asian Cup 2027 group stage draw 

Group A: Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Oman, Palestine
Group B: Uzbekistan, Bahrain, North Korea, Jordan
Group C: Iran, Syria, Kyrgyzstan, China
Group D: Australia, Tajikistan, Iraq, Singapore
Group E: South Korea, United Arab Emirates, Vietnam, Lebanon/Yemen
Group F: Japan, Qatar, Thailand, Indonesia