Al-Jalahma: Kuwait to build a high-standard training facility for national teams

Group photo of Minister of State for Youth and Sports Dr. Tareq Al-Jalahma with the national team’s coaching and administrative staff and players.

DOHA, Sept 9: State Minister for Youth and Sports Affairs Dr. Tariq Al-Jalahma announced plans to provide the Kuwait Football Association and national teams with a dedicated, high-standard training facility.

Speaking to the Third Sports Channel, Al-Jalahma said the project would give the national teams greater privacy during training and include medical facilities, a gym, and other amenities designed to support their preparations.

Al-Jalahma attended Al-Kuwait’s training session before the squad traveled to Doha for a training camp ahead of the 27th Gulf Cup in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, from Sept. 23 to Oct. 6.

He said the government is committed to creating the right conditions for the players and technical and administrative staff to deliver performances that reflect Kuwait’s football history and status in the regional competition.

Team delegation Chief Ayman Al-Husseini said the federation decided to start preparations early to give the squad more time to prepare for the tournament.

He explained that coach Hélio Sousa preferred to begin the national team’s training after the third league round, as most players had already trained with their clubs at overseas camps and were well prepared.

Al-Husseini added that Kuwait will play a friendly against Qatari club Lusail next week. All players are expected to feature except those from Kuwait Club, who will remain with their club for AFC Champions League 2 commitments before joining the national team in Jeddah.

Abdullah Al-Awadhi said that representing Kuwait in the Gulf Cup is a source of pride and pledged to give his best alongside his teammates.

He stressed the importance of making the most of the Doha camp to reach peak readiness, while Eid Al-Rashidi said the squad has high ambitions and hopes to produce a performance worthy of Kuwait’s football history.

Al-Rashidi also praised the passion of Kuwait’s supporters and expressed confidence that they would provide strong backing throughout the tournament.

Striker Shabib Al-Khaldi described the Gulf Cup as a special tournament unlike any other, saying it brings Gulf nations together in a unique sporting atmosphere.

Al-Azraq began its Doha training sessions yesterday under Portuguese coach Hélio Sousa.

By Khaled Al-Enezi

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff