Muscat: The match, held at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex in Bawshar, saw Jordan’s Ali Olwan net a sensational hat-trick to push his team closer to qualification and leave the Red Warriors needing a miracle.

With fans rallying behind them in red, Oman stepped onto the pitch with the urgency of securing three crucial points to stay alive in Group B. The national team, led by their local coaching staff, entered the fixture sitting fourth with 10 points — just behind Jordan, Iraq, and group leaders South Korea.

Despite early efforts by Al Mushaifri and Harib Al Saadi, Oman failed to convert their chances. Jordan’s pressure paid off late in the first half when Ali Olwan calmly slotted in a penalty during stoppage time after Oman’s defense crumbled under pressure.

The second half opened with more dominance from the Jordanians, and by the 51st minute, Yazan Al Naimat set up Olwan again for Jordan’s second goal. Oman’s defense continued to falter, and the 3-0 blow came soon after, with Olwan completing a well-earned hat-trick, exposing the gaps in Oman’s backline.

Yellow cards were shown to Amer (Jordan) and Abdul Mushaifri (Oman) as tensions flared. Coach Rashid Jaber made urgent substitutions in search of a comeback, but Jordan maintained control, rotating their squad to manage the final minutes efficiently.

Oman’s previous friendly wins over Niger and Lebanon had stirred hope, but this defeat now leaves their qualification chances hanging by a thread. Unless Iraq upsets South Korea, Jordan is poised to book their ticket to the World Cup.

For now, Oman’s supporters are left heartbroken while Jordan celebrates a massive step forward on their road to 2026.