KFA to complete Zain Premier League season in line with AFC deadline

A file photo of players in action.

KUWAIT CITY, May 21: Al-Salmiya will host Al-Shabab at 7:15 p.m. on Saturday at Thamer Stadium in the opening fixture of the 16th round of the Zain Premier League.

The round continues on Sunday with Kazma facing Al-Fahaheel and Al-Nasr taking on Kuwait Club, before concluding on Monday with Al-Jahra vs Al-Arabi and Al-Tadamon vs Al-Qadsia.

Al-Salmiya head into the match looking to bounce back from a 1-2 defeat to Al-Qadsia in the previous round, a result that saw them drop to fifth place on 23 points. Bahraini coach Ali Ashour is aiming for a response as his side targets a top-four finish to secure qualification for external competitions.

Al-Shabab, seventh with 15 points, are also under pressure after being joined by Al-Nasr on the same tally, while Al-Tadamon (11 points) continues to close in ahead of the relegation phase. Al-Shabab will be eager to collect vital points to strengthen their position in the top flight and close the gap on sixth-placed Al-Fahaheel (18 points).

The Kuwait Football Association (KFA) has confirmed it will complete the remaining fixtures of the Zain Premier League 2025–2026 season, including Round 18, the championship stage, and the relegation stage, to determine the final league standings.

In a circular sent to clubs, the KFA stated that the decision complies with Asian Football Confederation (AFC) regulations, which require domestic leagues to be concluded before June 30 to ensure eligibility for Asian and Gulf competitions.

The federation added that finishing the season will allow the official confirmation of final standings and the nomination of clubs for continental competitions in accordance with established criteria. Club lists for external tournaments must be submitted before the end of July.

The competition is set to resume after the national team’s camp concludes on June 9 (FIFA window), with Round 18 followed by the championship group for the top six teams and the relegation group for the bottom four.

By Hassan Mosa

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff