Saham edge Al Nahda in penalties to enter semis
MUSCAT, JAN 29
Saham clinched a spot in the semifinals of the His Majesty's Cup for football after a thrilling 2-1 victory in a penalty shoot-out over Al Nahda, last season's runner-up. The match took place at Sohar Sports Complex in the second leg of the tournament's quarterfinals.
Saham imposed itself from the start, managing to finish regular time with a 1-0 lead. This result mirrored the first leg's score, which had ended in Al Nahda's favour, pushing the teams into extra-time. However, neither side could break the deadlock, forcing the match into a penalty shoot-out, where Saham prevailed, thanks to the heroics of goalkeeper Hassan al Buraiki.
Saham entered the match with a clear intent to score early and successfully dictated the tempo in the first half. They began on the offensive, pressing Al Nahda's defence from the opening minutes, utilising dynamic movements from their attacking line. Their efforts resulted in several goal-scoring opportunities, but Al Nahda's goalkeeper made crucial saves to keep his side in the game.
On the other hand, Al Nahda relied on counter-attacks and the speed of their wingers, particularly Ahmed al Kaabi on the right flank. However, Saham's defence remained solid, thwarting Al Nahda's repeated attempts to break through.
BREAKING THE DEADLOCK
At the start of the second half, Saham maintained their attacking pressure, while Al Nahda became more effective on the flanks. Despite their efforts, they struggled to apply the finishing touch.
In the 68th minute, Saham finally unlocked Al Nahda's defence when Bassam al Saadi found the back of the net, putting his team ahead. Following the goal, Al Nahda intensified their attacks, launching a relentless offensive in search of an equaliser. The match turned into sustained pressure on Saham's goalkeeper, Hassan al Buraiki, who produced several crucial saves. In the closing minutes, Saham's players retreated into their defensive lines, battling fatigue but holding firm until the final whistle, keeping the aggregate score level at 1-1.
Both teams entered extra-time cautiously, with their attacking threat diminished due to fatigue. The game was reduced to long-range attempts that posed little danger to either goalkeeper. With the deadlock unbroken, the match went to penalties.
Saham emerged victorious in the shootout, with goalkeeper Hassan al Buraiki making key saves against Al Nahda's penalty takers. His outstanding performance secured Saham's place in the semifinals, keeping their championship hopes alive.
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