Veteran striker Bader Al-Mutawa celebrates after scoring the decisive goal.

KUWAIT CITY, Jan 29: Al-Qadsia fans had waited patiently for this moment—and its perseverance paid off. The team delivered an impressive performance in the second half of its Super Cup semi-final against traditional rival Al-Arabi, overturning a 1-3 deficit to secure a thrilling 4-3 victory.

Veteran striker Bader Al-Mutawa, 41, who came on as a substitute at halftime, led the charge and scored the decisive goal to seal the win for Al-Qadsia.

With this victory, Al-Qadsia advances to play Kuwait Club in the Super Cup final next Sunday. This matchup is a rematch of last season’s final, when Kuwait Club claimed the title after eliminating Al-Qadsia’s other rival, Al-Arabi, in the semi-finals.

In recent years, Al-Arabi has dominated the derby clashes, while Al-Qadsia has struggled with inconsistent performances, keeping them away from competing for local titles. This comeback, however, comes at an ideal moment—boosting morale as the team prepares for the Gulf Champions League and the Amir Cup, following its exit from the Crown Prince Cup and slim chances of claiming the Zain Premier League title.

Al-Qadsia midfielder Youssef Al-Haqan credited the turnaround to the halftime pep talk from Tunisian coach Nabil Maaloul. “Maaloul told us at halftime that this match is a matter of honor,” he said. “Coming back to beat Al-Arabi was not easy.”

Al-Arabi coach Nasser Al-Shatti cited “forced substitutions” due to injuries to Abdulwahab Al-Awadhi and Salman Al-Awadhi as a factor in his team’s defeat. He also noted the team’s fatigue after recent tough matches against Kuwait Club, Al-Qadsia, and Al-Fahaheel. “Failing to hold the lead in the derby is no excuse,” he added. “We congratulate Al-Qadsia on their victory.”

By Hassan Mosa

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff