Muscat – Oman will face Iraq in the opening match of the 27th Gulf Cup in Jeddah on Wednesday, with experts stressing the need for a strong and disciplined start as the Red Warriors begin their campaign.

The Group A encounter at Prince Abdullah Al Faisal Stadium will be Oman’s first test under Moroccan coach Tarik Sektioui, who took charge of the national team in March. Kick-off is scheduled for 6:30pm Oman time.

Oman has been drawn alongside hosts Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Kuwait, making every point important in the race for the semi-finals. The Red Warriors will face Saudi Arabia on September 26 before concluding their group campaign against Kuwait on September 29.

Coach Sektioui has declared his side ready for their opening match against Iraq, stressing the importance of making a strong start to the tournament.

Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Sektioui said Iraq has made significant changes to their squad since the last World Cup.

“We are in the strongest group, and we aim to be well prepared tomorrow and fight for victory,” he said.

“We held three preparation camps and have a strong desire to make our fans happy. We want to show them that they have a team they can be proud of.”

Sports analyst Ali Al Sheyadi told Muscat Daily that the opening match has special significance and urged the players to remain focused. “I hope Oman can win, but that will require full concentration, hard work and collective play till the final minute.”

Yousef Al Sheyadi, goalkeeper of Sohar Club, also stressed the importance of a disciplined performance and a positive start.

“The opening match is always important because it sets the tone for the rest of the tournament,” Yousef said. “Oman needs to stay focused, play collectively and maintain their concentration until the final whistle. A positive result will give the team confidence for the matches ahead.”

The fixture carries added significance because of the teams’ history in the Gulf Cup. Oman and Iraq have met ten times in the competition, with Iraq winning six and the other four matches ending in draws. Oman are yet to defeat Iraq in the tournament.

Their most recent Gulf Cup meetings came in 2023, when the teams drew 0-0 in the group stage before Iraq secured a 3-2 victory after extra time in the final in Basra.

Oman enter the tournament with Sektioui in charge for his first Gulf Cup assignment. The Red Warriors finished runners-up in the previous two editions and are seeking their third Gulf Cup title.

Iraq, meanwhile, are four-time Gulf Cup champions, having won the title in 1979, 1984, 1988 and 2023. The team is coached by Australian Graham Arnold.

The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals.

“For Oman, the immediate task is clear: remain disciplined, play as a unit and maintain concentration until the final whistle to seek a positive opening result,” Yousef said.