By Sport Reporter/Doha
Oman edged past Lebanon in the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup 2015-AFC Qualifier semifinals at Katara Beach yesterday and secured their spot in the Portugal World Cup.
Oman, the runners-up in 2011, defeated a stubborn Lebanon 5-4 in extra time with the help of a fine goal by Yahya.
Oman skipper Hani al-Dhabat was delighted with his team’s victory as he said: “It was a very tough game and we were happy to qualify for the World Cup in Portugal.”
“We had a very tough opening game against Bahrain which also went our way and after that we were in full control. Now we are in the final without losing a match and ready to meet Japan tomorrow.
“We have confidence in our game and hopefully we will play to our potential tomorrow and in the World Cup.”
Yahya, who put Oman in the lead after one-all first period, was a constant threat throughout the match, produced the all-important goal in the last minute of extra time.
Talking about Yahya’s winner, the Oman captain said: “He is a fine player. He was superb during the entire match and I am happy that he scored the all-important goal for us.”
The loss was heartbreaking for Lebanon but they still have a chance to qualify for the World Cup, when they will play in the third place match against Iran.
Oman will meet Japan in the final today.
In the second semifinal strong-willed Japan came back from behind to beat Iran 5-4 to enter the final. Iran were in the driver’s seat in the first two periods, controlling possession, shots, and rhythm. However, Japan hung around and stayed close until they were able to secure a lead 4-3 lead going into the last period.The Japanese utilised some sound defense and aimed attacks to turn things around in the third period, with goals by Oba in the beginning, and Ozu, in the last seconds of the game.
Earlier in the day, China defeated Uzbekistan 4-3, while UAE edged Bahrain 2-1 for lower placings.
The UAE win over Bahrain was decided in the final minutes, with both teams struggling to find any consistent offensive rhythm. The Falcons scored first to start things in the second period, but the Bahrainis quickly responded, only to go scoreless until the final minutes, when veteran Ali Karim scored for the Emiratis.
Hosts Qatar will meet Barcelona in a friendly game before the final today.
RESULTS
China bt Uzbekistan 4-3
UAE bt Bahrain 2-1
SEMIFINALS
Oman bt Lebanon 5-4
Japan bt Iran 5-4
