Against all expectations, Oman held the game to a draw against the Socceroos. In fact Oman’s first match could have resulted in its glory if not for Tim Cahill’s injury time equalizer. The crowd at Rajamangala Stadium were not hugely entertained during the first half, save for the poorly designed diving by Harry Kewell during the early minutes.

Oman’s first goal was not a memorable one but the lackluster shot took Mark Scwharzer by surprise. Schwarzer did get his hand on the ball but failed to prevent the goal.

Australia battled the humidity in the first half and Mark Viduka was given a chance at a free kick right outside Oman’s penalty box. Al Habsi did not get a chance to show his superior ability since the ball was poorly aimed and went above the crossbar. The first half hinted at a boring fixture with few chances either way.

Despite a poor first half Australia did not start the second with any new gusto. The game in the Rajamangala Stadium continued at the same tempo and Australian players flagged under the intensity of the humidity. Oman started the second half as the brighter side and were given several chances to double their lead. Oman’s best chance came when Ismad Ali found himself strangely free in Australia’s penalty box to head the ball. Schwarzer showed his class and saved the well aimed header by Ali. Australia was again saved from going 2-0 down when Schwarzer cleverly blocked Bashir’s attempt on goal.

Australia’s reputation and perhaps hopes in the competition were saved by Tim Cahill who managed to fire a rebound shot following Bresciano own effort. Al Habsi was flat footed after he parried Bresciano’s shot and could only watch the ball as it flew into the net. Luckily for both teams Thailand and Iraq shared a draw in the first in the same group. Australia v Oman ended 1-1.