12/11/2026
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12/11/2026
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KUWAIT CITY, Nov 12: Al-Arabi has achieved a breakthrough that had eluded other clubs for 12 years, knocking Kuwait Club out of the quarterfinals of the 2025–2026 Handball Federation Cup with a 37–33 victory and ending the Whites’ unprecedented run of 12 successive titles.
Kuwait Club had held an iron grip on the trophy since the 2013–2014 season, winning every edition through 2024–2025. However, Al-Arabi finally ended that remarkable winning streak, delivering a strong performance to eliminate the defending champion.
Elsewhere in the quarterfinals, Sulaibikhat booked its semifinal berth with a commanding 31–19 victory over Al-Fahaheel. It now faces Al-Arabi in Friday’s semifinal, while Kazma meets Burgan in the other last-four match.
With Kuwait Club out of the competition, the tournament is guaranteed to have a new champion for the first time in 12 years. The four remaining teams will now battle for the opportunity to lift the trophy.
Al-Arabi coach Hussein Habib described the victory over Kuwait Club as a historic achievement, expressing his satisfaction at ending the Whites’ more than 12-year dominance of the Federation Cup.
He stressed that the result was no coincidence, but rather the product of detailed technical work and thorough preparation.
Habib also thanked Al-Arabi’s supporters for their strong backing from the stands, saying their presence and encouragement helped inspire the players. He praised the club’s board and administrative staff for their continued support and for creating an environment conducive to success.
He noted that defeating a side of Kuwait Club’s calibre, which had dominated domestic handball for more than 12 years, required careful analysis of the opposition, a clear understanding of its strengths and weaknesses, and comprehensive physical, mental, and tactical preparation.
The coach praised his players for their fighting spirit and commitment throughout the encounter, pointing out that their performance reflected the hard work they had put in since the start of the season.
Habib, however, cautioned against dwelling on the quarterfinal triumph, urging his players to turn their attention immediately to the next challenge.
He described the semifinal against Sulaibikhat as a major test, requiring high levels of concentration and proper preparation if Al-Arabi are to maintain their momentum, reach the final, and continue their pursuit of the title.
By Khaled Al-Enezi
Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff
