Al-Nasr makes an early Zain Premier League statement

Al-Nasr coach Al-Adwani congratulates young players.

KUWAIT CITY, Sept 2: Al-Nasr has made a strong early statement in the Zain Premier League, winning its opening two matches to move alone to the top of the standings for the first time in years.

The “Red” side followed a 2-1 victory over Al-Salmiya in the opening round with another 2-1 win against Al-Fahaheel. The perfect record has given it early momentum, but it faces a tougher challenge on Friday when it meets Al-Qadsia in the third round.

Coach Dhaher Al-Adwani has put his trust in a number of young players, who have responded with encouraging displays in the first two matches. The team’s foreign players have also made a significant impact.

Kazma missed the opportunity to join Al-Nasr at the top after being held to a goalless draw by Al-Sahel, leaving both sides on four points.

Defending champion Kuwait Club is also on four points after recovering from their 3-3 draw with Al-Arabi in the opening round.

Kuwait Club claimed its first victory by edging Al-Qadsia 1-0 in the second-round highlight, a result that provided a major boost to the champion’s confidence while also handing them three valuable points.

Al-Shabab remains among the teams on four points after drawing 1-1 with Al-Sulaibikhat, who earned its first point of the campaign despite being reduced to 10 men midway through the second half.

Al-Salmiya bounced back from their opening defeat with a 2-0 victory over Al-Tadamon to record their first win and climb to sixth place.

Al-Jahra also took advantage of Al-Arabi’s difficulties, coming from behind to secure a 2-1 victory and move level with Al-Salmiya on four points. Al-Arabi slipped to ninth with just one point.

Al-Qadsia produced a tale of two halves against Kuwait Club. After dominating much of the first half, it faded after the break and could not cope with Kuwait Club’s growing pressure, eventually conceding a late winner.

Al-Fahaheel and Al-Tadamon occupy the bottom two places without a point after losing both of their opening matches. Their meeting next Saturday offers one of them a chance to claim a first victory and climb off the bottom of the table.

By Hassan Mosa

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff