09-03-2025
Saham stun Al Khabourah in last 16 of OL
MUSCAT, MARCH 9
Saham secured an exciting 3-2 victory over Al Khabourah on Saturday at Al Rustaq Sports Complex as part of the 16th round of the Oman Football League.
The game started cautiously from both teams, the first chance was in the 6th minute for Saham's Ali al Hashmi, but he failed to capitalise. Al Khabourah responded with attacking pressure, as Bashar al Balushi fired a powerful shot in the 13th minute, brilliantly saved by Saham's goalkeeper. Yusuf Bouabid nearly opened the scoring for Saham in the 15th minute, but his shot narrowly missed the right post.
Saham's goalkeeper made a crucial save against a dangerous shot from Joen Karl, while Omar Prince wasted a golden opportunity for Saham with a weak attempt in the 19th minute. The attacking pressure was tie to end first half in a goalless draw.
The second half kicked off with a higher tempo, as Al Khabourah took the lead in the 53rd minute through Ahmed al Riyami, who capitalised on defensive confusion inside the box. However, Saham responded quickly, earning a penalty that was successfully converted by Algerian Rashid Aït in the 57th minute, bringing the game back to level terms.
Saham continued pressing and managed to take the lead in the 62nd minute through Adeniji. Al Khabourah intensified their attacks, attempting to break through the wings and central areas, but Saham's goalkeeper, Hassan al Buraiki, showcased brilliant saves, especially in the final minutes.
As stoppage time began, Adeniji struck again in the 93rd minute, finishing off a swift counterattack to extend Saham's lead. Al Khabourah's Mohamed Lamine managed to reduce the deficit in the 95th minute, but it was too late to change the outcome, as Saham secured a valuable 3-2 win.
With this victory, Saham climbed to 20 points, advancing to sixth place on goal difference ahead of Al Nasr, who sits in fifth. Meanwhile, Al Khabourah remained at 21 points, holding onto fourth place without change.
