Oman Vs Jordan

The Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex in Muscat is poised to host a pivotal Group B encounter in the AFC World Cup Qualifiers, as Oman prepares to face Jordan on Thursday. This match carries significant weight for both teams, with their aspirations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup hanging in the balance.

Oman, under the guidance of manager Rasheed Jaber Al-Yafai, finds itself in a precarious position. With two matches remaining in this qualifying round, Oman sits fourth in the group with 10 points, trailing Jordan by three and South Korea by six. A victory is imperative to keep their qualification hopes alive. Their recent form offers a glimmer of hope; a 1-0 victory over Kuwait in March was followed by friendly wins against Niger (4-1) and Lebanon (1-0), extending their unbeaten run to four matches. Notably, Oman has secured four wins in their last five competitive games at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex, their sole defeat being a narrow 1-0 loss to Iraq.

Jordan, managed by Jamal Sellami, currently holds the second spot in Group B with 13 points. Their recent performances have been a mix of resilience and inconsistency. A commendable 3-1 win over Palestine and a 1-1 draw against group leaders South Korea showcased their potential. However, their overall record reveals just one win in their last nine matches, accompanied by six draws and two losses. Their away form is particularly concerning, with five draws and two defeats in their last seven away fixtures. Despite this, Jordan remains unbeaten in their last six World Cup qualifiers on the road, securing three victories.

The stakes are high for both teams. A win for Oman could potentially elevate them to second place, contingent on other results, while a victory for Jordan would solidify their position and possibly guarantee a top-two finish, ensuring direct qualification. Conversely, a loss for Jordan could see Iraq overtake them, adding pressure ahead of their final matchday clash.

The Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex, with its 28,000-seat capacity, has been a fortress for Oman in recent times. The team's familiarity with the venue and the support of the home crowd could play a crucial role in this decisive fixture. As the 2026 World Cup approaches, both Oman and Jordan will be acutely aware of the significance of this match in shaping their paths to the tournament.