Oman thrash Afghanistan to reach Airmarine Cup final

No challenge: Oman’s Raed Ibrahim Saleh (right) dribbling past Afghanistan’s Milad Intezar during the Airmarine Cup match at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil yesterday. — Bernama

KUALA LUMPUR: Oman coach Erwin Koeman has just one target and that is to bring home the Airmarine Cup.

And the Middle East side signalled their intention when they thrashed Afghanistan 5-0 at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil here yesterday.

Oman’s goals were scored by Ahmed Kano (8th), Raed Ibrahim Saleh (26th), Mohammed Al Balushi (45th), Abdulaziz Al Muqbali (49th) and Mohsin Al Khaldi (90th) as the Reds sealed a spot in Saturday’s final.

Koeman, who has vast experience in the Dutch Eredivisie, said the team started well and were really motivated throughout the match.

”I have only been with the team for six days but they have shown great technical strength and discipline,” said Koeman.

“We can see that Afghanistan were struggling with the weather and pitch but you really should not have any excuses when it comes to football.

“It is something that you have to deal with. For me, in any game, you have to think about winning. That’s why you play the game.

“I’m happy with how my boys performed.”

Erwin, who is the elder brother of Holland head coach Ronald, said he will make some changes for the final but that does not mean he is compromising on the team’s chance to lift the inaugural Cup.

”I have trained this team for about four times and I believe I will be able to call up some reserves for the final,” added Koeman.

”But that does not mean we are not going to win. We want the Cup and whoever we face in the final, we’ll give it our best shot.”

The Dutchman said most of Oman’s Asian Cup players are in the current squad but he is relishing the idea of selecting a few youngsters in the future.

Oman, who have played in the Asian Cup four times, had their best outing this year when they qualified for the last 16 .

”We have the Olympics team playing in Qatar for the AFC Under-23 qualifiers and five of the senior players are part of the squad,” said Koeman.

”As coach, I am looking forward to scout for more talents, especially in the Omani league.

”Oman certainly has a bright future and I’m looking forward to be a part of it.”