publish time

31/03/2024

author name Arab Times

publish time

31/03/2024

Players in action during the Zain Premier League match.

KUWAIT CITY, March 31: Kuwait Club reclaimed the top spot in the Zain Premier League with a commanding 3-0 victory over Al-Salmiya in the second round of the tournament group (League of Six). This surge was facilitated by the slip-up of former leader Al-Arabi, who settled for a 1-1 draw with Al-Salmiya.

"Al-Abyad" ascended to 47 points, edging ahead of Al-Arabi by one point. Meanwhile, Al-Qadisiya slipped to third place with 45 points, and Al-Salmiya climbed to fourth with 25 points. The joint position of Al-Fahaheel and Al-Nasr, both remaining at 25 points, was dissolved as they fell to 24 points.

Accepting the favor granted by Al-Samawi, Kuwait seized the opportunity to force Al-Arabi into a draw, thus reclaiming the lead lost in the previous round. Kuwait Club secured a vital victory over Al-Nasr with minimal effort, capitalizing on the challenges faced by "Al-Annabi," notably their financial hardships, which had frustrated the players due to unpaid salaries for five months.

On the other hand, Al-Arabi paid the price for squandering opportunities, particularly in the first half, and playing with ten players after team captain Issa Walid was sent off in the middle of the second half. Despite this setback, Al-Arabi managed to hold on to a draw through defensive play and counterattacks.

Meanwhile, Al-Salmiya encountered difficulties due to the absence of key players, including Brazilian Alex Lima, sidelined for approximately 30 days due to a muscle injury sustained in training. Other absentees included Moaz Al-Dhafiri, Mahdi Dashti, and Fawaz Ayed, sidelined due to various injuries.

Looking ahead, Al-Qadisiya anticipates an early-week "Derby" match that holds significant implications for their league title aspirations. With victory becoming a pressing desire for the "Yellow Castle," optimism among supporters has surged, fueled by the team's recent impressive performances against formidable rivals.

Hassan Musa

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff