In this file photo, Kuwait Club and Al-Arabi players vie for the ball.

KUWAIT CITY, Jan 22: The 12th round of the Zain Premier League kicks off today with two matches. Al-Salmiya faces Al-Tadhamon at Thamer Stadium at 4:25 PM, while Al-Qadsia hosts Al-Fahaheel at Naif Al-Dabbous Stadium at 6:50 PM.

The spotlight shifts to the top-of-the-table clash, as Kuwait Club (29 points) takes on Al-Arabi (24 points) on Saturday at Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium at 5:45 PM.

Fans are eagerly awaiting this pivotal encounter between league leaders Kuwait Club and its closest challenger, Al-Arabi. A win for Kuwait Club would strengthen its bid to defend the league title, bringing it closer to a fifth consecutive championship and the 21st overall in club history. Kuwait Club has been remarkably consistent this season and is aiming to maintain its unbeaten run.

Al-Arabi, meanwhile, hopes to bounce back after a 1-1 draw against Al-Fahaheel in the previous round. It is eager to close the gap with the leader and to deal Kuwait Club its first defeat of the season, a team that last year denied it multiple trophies, including the Amir Cup, Crown Prince Cup, and the league title. Their first-round match ended in a 1-1 draw.

The clash between third-placed Al-Qadsia (18 points) and fourth-placed Al-Fahaheel (17 points) is a battle for the third spot. Al-Qadsia aims to keep its slim title hopes alive, while Al-Fahaheel is seeking revenge after suffering a heavy 5-1 loss in the first-round matchup.

Al-Salmiya (6th, 14 points) enters its match against Al-Tadamon looking to restore pride, having been eliminated from the Crown Prince Cup by the same team. It also aims to climb out of the relegation danger zone.

Al-Tadhamon (9th, 5 points) hopes to exploit home advantage and secure its second win of the season, keeping its campaign alive.

By Hassan Mosa

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff