Oman boss Talib Hilal eyes Bahamas 2017 qualification

The Omanis, who lifted their inaugural title by beating Japan (pictured) in the final of Qatar 2015, are in Group B with only Lebanon and Thailand keeping them company after the last-minute withdrawal of Uzbekistan.

For Hilal however, booking a spot in the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Bahamas 2017 remains the top priority, one that comes before defending their AFC Beach Soccer Championship title.

“My main goal is to book a place in the FIFA (Beach Soccer) World Cup. The top three Asian teams will qualify for the World Cup to be held in Bahamas in April,” Hilal told Muscat Daily.

“It is going to be a challenge, but if we qualify for the final, then we are assured of a berth in the World Cup. I can then focus on defending the (continental) title.”

“The late pull-out of Uzbekistan from our group means there are only three teams left in the pool.

“It makes it difficult as we now need to win both the matches to secure a place in the semi-finals.”

CLICK HERE FOR THE AFC BEACH SOCCER CHAMPIONSHIP 2017 MATCH SCHEDULE

Hilal believes his team are ready for the competition after beating powerhouses Switzerland - in two recent friendlies in Muscat - and Bahrain during their build-up to Malaysia 2017.

Oman thrashed Switzerland 9-4 and 5-4 at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex before trouncing the Bahrainis 6-1 and then 3-2 in Manama last month.

“The wins against the visiting Swiss side has boosted the morale of our players as Switzerland is currently ranked sixth in the world,” said Hilal.

The top three finishers in Malaysia 2017 will fly the Asian flag at the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup Bahamas 2017 which will take place on April 27-May 7.

Oman squad for AFC Beach Championship 2017: 
Haitham Showan
Amjad Al Hamadani
Yahya Al Araimi
Jalal Al Sinani
Abdullah Al Sooti
Nooh Al Zadjali
Hani Al Dhabit
Khalid Al Araimi
Mundhir Al Araimi
Musheel Al Araimi
Abdullah Al Balushi
Khazar Al Battashi