Al Nasr take on in-form Shabab in Mazda Cup

MUSCAT: Defending champions Al Nasr are drawn to take on inform Shabab in the Mazda Professional Cup quarterfinal on January 6.

The game will be played at the Nizwa Complex for a 17:00 kickoff.

Al Shabab are in top form as they finished top of the Omantel Professional League in the first half of the season. They are a strong outfit and riding high on confidence as they go into the Mazda Cup match. Al Nasr will be looking to exploit their experience of being crowned champions last season. Their league form has also been good and they will prove more than an even match for black horses Al Shabab. DHOFAR, AL NAHDA IN

TRICKY TIE Dhofar are having quite the season, second in the OPL by a whisker of a difference, in a commanding position in the His Majesty’s Cup quarterfinal tie and now find themselves in a quarterfinal clash against Al Nahda in the Mazda Professional Cup.

Competing on all fronts can be taxing on the squad, the good season rewarding their players with more games through national team call ups as well — which can affect their performance, particular towards the final stages of the game where fitness makes all the difference. That does not mean they are at a disadvantage — far from it, in fact. They are probably favourites to go through with their stellar form and line-up.

Al Nahda though, are known to be a tough and gritty side to beat. Seeking a trophy after their last one when they won the league in the 2013-14 season, the Mazda Cup is their best chance. The game will be played at the Salalah Complex on January 6, with kick off at 5 pm.