Muscat, Sept 6
Oman’s representatives Seeb inched closer to claim the historic title of AFC Cup 2022 as they defeated Kuwait’s Al Arabi SC 2-1 in a thrilling West Zone semifinal late on Monday. At the Kuwait Sports Club Stadium, Mohsin al Ghassani and Salah al Yahyaei goals in the extra time sealed the Omani side’s significant triumph.
With this victory, Seeb advanced to the West Zone final which will take place in Muscat on October 4. The winners of the second semifinal between Bahraini clubs East Riffa and Al Riffa late on Tuesday will take on Seeb in the final.
The champions of West Zone will face off against the winner of Inter-Zone as PFC Sogdiana, Eastern Long Lions, ATK Mohun Bagan and Kuala Lumpur City FC reached the semifinals. The overall final of AFC Cup 2022 will be held on October 22.
After a goalless draw in the regulation time, Mohsin al Ghassani broke the deadlock as he opened the scoring five minutes later in extra time in extraordinary fashion and benefiting from Arabi defender’s mistake. Three minutes later, Salah al Yahyaei doubled the score through a strong shot which the goalkeeper could not stop. Arabi’s Kingsley Eduwo reduced the margin in the 115th minute.
Seeb head coach Ilie Stan said he was confident that Seeb would progress to the final match of West Zone. “Congratulations to all the players. I had full trust on them since I arrived to Oman last summer,” Stan said in post-match comments.
The Romanian coach appreciated the Seeb squad for keeping their full focus and drive throughout the exhausting semifinal encounter.
“I was confident with my existing squad. I have full backing from our solid management team. When I took in charge of the team, the players were already in a good condition. Special thanks to the physio team for maintaining the fitness of the players. Dedicated thanks to the management as well as they are very close to the players,” coach Stan said.
Highlighting on the upcoming period, the Seeb head coach said he will focus to keep the organisation of their game. “I have perfect players. The players understand my philosophy and we will try to get better results in the coming fixtures,” he concluded.
