Saudi Arabia held to draw by Oman

Saudi Arabia were held to a 0-0 draw by Oman on Friday in Group D of Asian qualifying for the 2014 World Cup.

Playing in front of a packed home crowd at the Seeb Sports Stadium, Oman missed at least four scoring chances in the first half.

Oman striker Imaad al Hosni came close in just the second minute off a pass from midfielder Juma Darwish, but the shot flew over the bar. Al Hosni missed again six minutes later in front of the goal mouth.

Forward Taiseer al Jassim had Saudi Arabia’s first shot at goal in the 32nd minute, but managed only to hit the post.

Oman and Wigan goalkeeper Ali al Habsi was again tested by Saudi substitute Naif Hazazi in the 78th minute, but he managed to punch the ball away.

In Friday’s other Group D match, Australia rallied to beat Thailand 2-1.

“We knew it would be tough to beat Oman in Oman. So I am happy with the point we have gained from the match,” Saudi coach Frank Rijkaard said. “Of course Australia have the advantage at this stage in our group as they have defeated Thailand, but I think the contest is still open for all the teams.”

“We have to travel a long distance to Australia after today’s game and we need to adjust fast there before we play against them on Sept 6,” the former Barcelona and Holland coach said.
Oman coach Paul Le Guen said he was satisfied with his team’s performance, predicting Oman are capable of surprising everyone.

“We did miss few chances in the match, but I am happy we were able to execute our plans on the field,” the Frenchman said. “I know we are not favorites in this group, but we are capable of surprising big teams.

“I have a talented team and I do not think much about its weaknesses. Whatever we have to do, we have to do with this team.”

In Manama, Bahrain were held to a 0-0 draw at home by Qatar. Bahrain were clearly the more polished side in the Group E contest but failed to capitalise on a string of scoring chances.

In Group A, visitors Jordan spoiled former Brazilian playmaker Zico’s debut as Iraq coach, beating the 2007 Asian champions 2-0 through goals by Hasan Mahmoud and Abd Allah Deeb.

Javad Nekonam scored twice for Iran in a 3-0 win against Indonesia in Group E while Kuwait edged out the United Arab Emirates 3-2 in Group B.