Al Dawsari lifts Saudi Arabia past Oman in tense Arab Cup clash | OneFootball

Captain delivers two decisive assist as Green Falcons start Group B with statement victory

Al Dawsari lifts Saudi Arabia past Oman in tense Arab Cup clash

Saudi Arabia launched their Arab Cup Qatar 2025 campaign with hard fought 2-1 victory over Oman on Tuesday with captain Salem Al Dawsari at the heart of both goals in intense Group B opener.

Balanced first half and disallowed Omani goal

Both teams looked to strike early through long range efforts. Oman created the first major threat when Ali Al Busaidi fired powerful free kick just wide in the 16 minute.

Saudi Arabia responded through Mohamed Kanno & Saleh Abu Al Shamat whose attempts were handled safely by goalkeeper Ibrahim Al Mukhaini.

Oman thought they had taken the lead moments before the break but Essam Al Subhi’s finish was ruled out for offside in the 44 minute after tight call.

Second half sparks into life

Saudi Arabia broke the deadlock in the 54 minute when striker Firas Al Buraikan rose to meet perfect cross from Salem Al Dawsari guiding precise header into the far corner for 1-0.

Oman replied with determination and their pressure paid off when Ghanim Al Habashi powered in header to level the match with just over 20 minute remaining.

Al Dawsari decides it again

The Saudi captain almost restored the lead with curling effort in the 75 minute but his shot was saved.

Moments later, he created the decisive moment of the match slipping clever pass into substitute Saleh Al Shehri who reacted brilliantly to bury the rebound in the 78 minute.

Al Dawsari continued to threaten striking the crossbar in the 90 minute and missing one on one deep into stoppage time but his two assist ultimately secured the victory.

Group B picture

Earlier in the day, Morocco defeated Comoros 3-1 meaning Saudi Arabia join the Atlas Lions at the top of the group after the opening round.