MANAMA: The championship, running from November 1 to 11, gathers eight teams divided into two groups. Oman’s team is in Group A alongside Tunisia, Bahrain, and Iraq, while Group B includes Kuwait, Jordan, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia.

The national squad, led by coach Jamal Al Maamari, has prepared intensively, including an internal training camp in Sohar and an external camp in Poland. The final roster for the tournament includes 14 selected players, with Hilal Al Maamari captaining the team. He is joined by notable names like Saud Al Maamari, Khalid Al Maamari, and Abdullah Al Shabli, among others. The technical staff, which also includes assistant coach Hamid Al Maamari, treatment specialist Ali Al Farsi, and team manager Khalid Al Maamari, has worked tirelessly to ready the team for the challenging matchups ahead.

The tournament opener against Tunisia is anticipated to be a tough contest, as the Tunisian team ranks among the strongest competitors in African volleyball. Despite the absence of Egypt, last year’s champions, Tunisia remains a prominent contender, while Oman also prepares for strong showings from host team Bahrain and regional rivals Qatar. Following the match against Tunisia, Oman will meet Bahrain on Sunday and Iraq on Tuesday, rounding out their group-stage commitments.