Oman approach Iran for a friendly game

Oman Football Association (OFA) General Secretary Taha Al Kishry told www.the-afc.com that the list includes two four-nation tournaments which they will host preceding the coveted competition.

“Some matches are at the negotiation stage while some have already been confirmed. We are planning to play non-Gulf Cup teams to prepare for the event with friendlies against teams like Egypt, Iran and Cameroon,” he said.

“Two four-team tournaments are also planned for the year-end. I hope these matches will give enough exposure to the national team and will help new coach Claude Le Roy finalise his strategy,” he added.

He revealed that the OFA is close to signing an agreement with a private television channel to broadcast the Oman League and other international matches live.

“It will be for the first time that the Omani League matches will be telecast live. This will help us in attracting the sponsors. We have already got a sponsor for the league but more sponsors will mean more money to the clubs.”

“We will provide financial assistance to all the clubs, including 12 in the first division, 23 in the second and the remaining in the third division,” he said.

Regarding fulfilling the criteria of the AFC Pro-League Ad-hoc Committee to play in the continent’s biggest club competition, Al Kishry admitted that it would take around four years for the OFA and the clubs to make the grade.

“We are not in a hurry. I think we will progress slowly but steadily and I am hopeful that Omani clubs can be part of the AFC Champions League in four years’ time,” he said.