Mansion Sports – A thrilling encounter is set to unfold in the continuation of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Asian Qualifiers as Oman face off against Qatar at the Thani bin Jassim Stadium on Tuesday, October 8, 2025. The match is scheduled to kick off at 19:00 local time.

This fixture carries significant weight for both sides, who previously missed out on direct qualification in the earlier round. 

With only one automatic qualification spot available in Group A, the Oman vs Qatar clash is expected to be played with intensity, determination, and immense tactical discipline.

Before the highly anticipated kickoff, here is a detailed look at the expected lineups and team conditions for both nations in this crucial qualifier.

Oman: Rising Optimism Under Carlos Queiroz

For Oman, this match represents a golden opportunity to take a historic step toward their first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance. 

The team, known as Al-Ahmar, have been showing steady progress under the guidance of their experienced Portuguese coach, Carlos Queiroz, who officially took charge in July.

The former Real Madrid and Iran manager has led Oman through four matches without a single defeat in regular time. 

Although they narrowly missed out on winning the CAFA Cup due to goal difference against Uzbekistan, their performances have demonstrated clear tactical improvement and resilience.

In the third-place playoff of that tournament, Oman lost to India on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regulation time. 

Their recent record remains impressive — only one defeat in their last ten matches across all competitions.

Notably, Oman defeated Qatar 2-1 in the 2024 Arabian Gulf Cup — their first victory over Al-Annabi since 2010. 

With such encouraging form and a group that includes both Qatar and the United Arab Emirates, Oman now have a realistic chance of fighting for an automatic qualification spot.

Qatar: Playing Under Pressure

On the opposite side, Qatar enter this fixture under the leadership of Spanish tactician Julen Lopetegui, who replaced Luis García in May.

Lopetegui’s early tenure has been marked by inconsistency, recording one win, one draw, and two losses in his first four games in charge.

Despite being the host nation of the 2022 World Cup, Qatar have struggled to regain their dominant form. 

Over their last six matches in all competitions, they have managed just one victory, alongside three defeats and two draws.

Nevertheless, Qatar hold a superior head-to-head record against Oman. They have triumphed in five of their last ten meetings, with only one loss — the 2024 defeat — in the past fifteen years.

However, consecutive losses to Lebanon and Russia have raised questions about Lopetegui’s tactical setup and the squad’s adaptability. 

The upcoming match against Oman will be a crucial test of how far Qatar have evolved under their new manager.

Predicted Lineups for Oman vs Qatar – World Cup Qualifiers

Oman (4-1-4-1)

Head coach Carlos Queiroz is expected to stick with his preferred 4-1-4-1 formation, offering a solid balance between defense and attack. Goalkeeper Faiyz Al-Rusheidi will remain the first-choice option between the posts, while Ahed Al-Mashaiki is set to anchor the midfield as a defensive shield against Qatar’s fast transitions.

In attack, Issam Al Sabhi will once again lead the line. The 28-year-old forward has been in fine form, scoring three goals in his last four international appearances. Al Sabhi was also the hero in last year’s historic win over Qatar, where he netted twice.

• Goalkeeper: Al Mukhaini
• Defenders: Mabrook, Al Rushaidi, Al Khamisi, Al Kaabi
• Defensive Midfielder: Al-Mashaiki
• Midfielders: Al Rawahi, Fawaz, Al Busaidi, Al Yahmadi
• Forward: Al Sabhi
• Coach: Carlos Queiroz

Qatar (4-2-3-1)

Julen Lopetegui faces several injury concerns ahead of the clash. Winger Ismail Mohamad remains sidelined with a hamstring issue, while backup goalkeeper Salah Zakaria is unavailable following surgery.

Despite these setbacks, Qatar will rely heavily on their star striker Almoez Ali, renowned for his sharp instincts in World Cup qualifying campaigns.

Ali has scored 12 goals in 12 qualifying matches over the past two rounds and is expected to be the focal point of Qatar’s attack.

• Goalkeeper: Barsham
• Defenders: Ali, Pedro Miguel, Khoukni, Al Amin
• Defensive Midfielders: Madibo, Salman
• Attacking Midfielders: Afif, Muntari, Fathi
• Forward: Ali
• Coach: Julen Lopetegui

A Tactical and Psychological Test for Both Nations

The Oman vs Qatar encounter is not just another qualifying fixture — it is a test of tactical intelligence and mental resilience for two teams in transition.

Oman approach the match with growing confidence and stability under Queiroz, while Qatar must demonstrate that they still belong among Asia’s footballing elite. 

With both teams chasing the same dream of reaching the 2026 World Cup, every moment will matter.

Given the fierce rivalry and high stakes, the atmosphere at the Thani bin Jassim Stadium promises to be electric. 

Ultimately, the tactical choices of Carlos Queiroz and Julen Lopetegui — and the performances of their chosen lineups — will be decisive in determining who takes a vital step closer to qualification.