(MENAFN- Muscat Daily) Hosts Oman will take on beach soccer's world No 5 team, Switzerland, in a three-match friendly series later this month as part of the national team's preparations for the forthcoming Asian Cup in Malaysia from March 4-11.
Speaking to Muscat Daily, Talib Hilal, the coach of the Asian beach soccer champion, said on Tuesday, 'We are now in the final leg of our preparations for the Asian Cup. I had a successful camp that concluded on Monday, and now it is time for our players to compete in a series of friendlies ahead of the tournament.
'Switzerland, which has moved up to top five in the January world rankings, will arrive on February 23 and play a three-match series from February 24-26. To play against such a strong side will give our boys ideal preparations for the Asian Cup.'
The Asian event in Malaysia will be held at Pantai Batu Buruk in Kuala Terengganu. Oman has been clubbed with Lebanon, Uzbekistan and Thailand in Group B.
Oman has slipped three places in the latest rankings and is now 14th in the world. Prior to the visit of the Swiss team, Oman will travel to Bahrain to play two matches against the hosts on February 17-18 and plans are also in place for a UAE tour on February 21-22 for a couple of games.
'The players have been doing well at the camp. I am satisfied with their dedication and commitment. We have a strong side and I have confidence in the players. Our aim is to defend the title, but the priority is to book our spot in the World Cup that will be held in Bahamas,' said Talib.
A total of 13 teams will participate at the AFC Beach Soccer Championship Malaysia 2017.
The group winners and the best runner-up from each of the three groups will qualify for the semifinals, the winners of which will advance to the final.
The top three teams will fly the Asian flag at the 2017 FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup in the Bahamas, scheduled to begin on April 27.
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