Monday 30 / March / 2026
MUSCAT: Oman football team’s new head coach Tarik Sektioui has set an ambitious course for the national players, declaring that the next four years are about building a winning legacy — not just turning up for tournaments.
Speaking at his inaugural press conference on Monday, in the presence of Sayyid Sulaiman Al Busaidi, Oman Football Association (OFA) president and members of the OFA board, Sektioui unveiled a long-term vision aimed at qualifying for the 2030 FIFA World Cup and competing strongly in the Asian Cup.
“We are not here just to participate; we are here to win,” Sektioui said. “Over the next four years, our mission is clear: build a balanced, competitive team across defence, midfield, and attack, and instill a winning mentality in every player who wears the national jersey.”
The Moroccan coach, who previously led Morocco to an Arab Cup title, stressed that achieving success requires a united effort from all corners of Omani football.
“This project needs everyone — the federation, the players, the fans,” he said. “I ask supporters to be patient. We are building something strong and sustainable.”
A central pillar of Sektioui’s plan is youth development. He pledged to work closely with age-group coaches and ensure that Oman’s younger squads are integrated into the senior team’s long-term strategy. “Youth teams are the foundation,” he said. “We will give them the attention they deserve because they are the future of Omani football.”
Sektioui also made it clear that selection will be based purely on performance, opening the door to any player who can contribute, regardless of age. “Players must value the national jersey and give 100 percent,” he said.
“We will bring in the best performers. Commitment and performance will always count above all else.”
The new coach emphasised that a distinctive Omani football identity is key to long-term success. “We want Oman football to have its own identity - one that is disciplined, competitive, and proud,” he said. “Every player and staff member must understand what it means to represent the nation.”
In addition to the senior team, Sektioui confirmed that he will soon unveil his support staff and roll out a structured training roadmap, signaling the start of a methodical rebuild.
“I have already spoken to the board. Now we begin the work in earnest — training, strategy, and building a culture that will last.”
Sektioui’s message was clear: ambition, unity, and hard work will define the next four years. For Oman football, the countdown to 2030 has officially begun - and this time, the goal is not just to compete, but to win.
