Kazma and Tadamon players battling for the ball.

KUWAIT CITY, Feb 18: Al-Qadsia returns from the UAE today, Thursday, after completing its Gulf Club Champions League campaign. The team will immediately begin preparations for Monday’s high-stakes match against Kazma in the 14th round of the Zain Premier League.

Maintaining third place will be no easy task for Al-Qadsia, who sit on 22 points—just one ahead of fourth-placed Kazma. The upcoming clash pits them against a team eager to rebound after a series of setbacks.

Kazma has struggled in cup competitions this year, exiting the Amir Cup in the preliminary round after losing to Khaitan 3-1 on penalties (1-1 in regular time) and bowing out of the Crown Prince Cup to Al-Sulaibikhat 4-3 on penalties (2-2 in regular time).

Kazma, despite strong league performances—including wins over Al-Qadsia, Al-Arabi, and Salmiya—failed to capitalize on its strong form and suffered a surprise 1-0 loss to bottom-placed Al-Tadhamon in the rescheduled 11th-round match at Ali Sabah Al-Salem Stadium.

Meanwhile, Al-Farwaniya moved up to ninth place after a crucial win, reaching 8 points—one ahead of Al-Jahra and one behind Al-Nasr. This round also features key battles at the bottom of the table, including a decisive clash between Al-Tadhamon and Al-Jahra to avoid last place.

Elsewhere, Al-Nasr will aim to pull further away from the relegation zone against Al-Fahaheel. At the same time, Kuwait Club faces a relatively easier test against Al-Shabab, which could solidify its title bid. Al-Arabi, meanwhile, faces a tough trip to Salmiya, with defeat potentially costing it the runner-up spot and a chance at the championship.

By Hassan Mosa

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff