Calm Confidence: Morocco Aims for Early Arab Cup Breakthrough Against Oman

Match preview

Tarik Saktiwy, the Morocco-based coach leading the national team in the Arab Cup, says he respects Oman ahead of their meeting.

Morocco faces Oman tomorrow, Friday, at Khalifa International Stadium, in the Arab Cup group stage's second round.

The coach stated that he values Oman but that his team still aims to win and advance.

He added that Oman produced a strong performance against Saudi Arabia and benefit from an experienced coach in Carlos Queiroz.

There will be no major changes to the Atlas Lions' plans; Morocco intends to qualify early for the quarterfinals and keep contending for the title.

Notes on training, changes, and Batna\'s absence

Oman\'s readiness is noted, and Saktiwy pointed out they haven\'t trained together much yet; conditions are better than before the Comoros match.

Some changes to the squad may occur depending on the opponent, but not many.

Regarding Murad Batna\'s absence, the coach said he met him in Saudi Arabia; Batna was among his options, but declined to attend for personal reasons.

Morocco began their Arab Cup campaign with a 3-1 win over Comoros, while Oman lost 1-2 to Saudi Arabia.

Morocco remains focused on early qualification and continued pursuit of the trophy.

Punchline: If tactics were a rifle, Morocco would be zeroed in—aim small, win big. Punchline 2: Oman better bring their mint tea, because the plan is to outplay and outlast—snack breaks included in the master plan.