Kuwait Club aims to extend Zain Premier League lead against Al-Arabi

This news has been read 785 times!

KUWAIT CITY, Dec 2: The defending champions, Kuwait Club, are gearing up for a crucial match against Al-Arabi, originally scheduled in the eighth round of the Zain Premier League. The encounter, initially set for November 27, was delayed due to the teams’ involvement in AFC Cup competitions. The match is slated to take place at 6:45 pm at the Friendship and Peace Stadium.

Currently leading the league with 17 points, Al-Kuwait face stiff competition from Al-Qadsia (16 points) for the top spot. Al-Arabi hold third place with 14 points.

In the AFC Cup, both teams are navigating a period of instability. Al-Arabi, positioned third with 5 points, missed the chance to qualify for the third group, trailing behind Al-Zawraa of Iraq (8 points) and Al-Riffa of Bahrain (13 points). Kuwait, in third place with 6 points, needs a win against Al-Wahdat in the last round. Additionally, they rely on Al-Zawraa losing to Riffa to secure qualification as the second-best among the three groups in the West Asia region.

Locally, Al-Kuwait boast a favorable position compared to Al-Arabi, having secured a convincing 4-1 victory over Al-Fahaheel in the seventh round. Coach Boris Bunjak recognizes the pivotal nature of the upcoming match, referring to it as a “crossroads.” A defeat would mean sharing the top spot with Al-Arabi and jeopardizing their chances of a third consecutive title.

Bunjak’s squad comprises standout players such as Tunisians Yassin Al-Khanisi and Yassin Amri, Bahraini Muhammad Al-Marhoon, Moroccan Mahdi Barahma, and others.

On the opposing side, Al-Arabi aim for victory to claim the league’s summit and boost morale for a title challenge. Bosnian coach Darko Nestorovic acknowledges the significance, understanding that anything less than a win could distance them from the competition, especially with close rivals Al-Nasr, Kazma, and Al-Salmiya, each holding 13 points.

Despite facing challenges like injuries and absences, Al-Arabi field a capable lineup featuring players like Moroccan Hamza Khaba, Bandar Al-Salama, Sultan Al-Anazi, and Mamadou Thiam. The outcome of this match will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of both teams in the league.

Hassan Musa
Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff

This news has been read 785 times!