Players intensify training for the key qualifiers in Kuwait.

KUWAIT CITY, June 2: Kuwait launched an internal training camp today as part of its preparations for two decisive matches against Palestine and South Korea. These fixtures, set for Thursday and the following Tuesday, mark the ninth and tenth (final) rounds of Group B in the AFC qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The Blues currently sit in sixth and last place in Group B with five points. South Korea tops the group with 16 points, followed by Jordan (13), Iraq (12), Oman (10), and Palestine (6).

Despite the odds, National Teams Director Saud Al-Mujammed believes Kuwait still has a mathematical chance to reach the Asian play-offs. “Everyone is holding on to this hope, even though it is slim,” he said.

Al-Mujammed noted that qualification now hinges on the outcomes of other group matches. “It’s no longer in our hands,” he acknowledged, “but the team is determined to give its best and achieve positive results in both games.”

He also confirmed that Argentine coach Juan Antonio Pizzi and his technical staff are fully in charge of player selection, expressing optimism that the squad will perform at a high level and fight for victories.

Midfielder Hussein Ashkanani underwent an X-ray after experiencing minor muscle discomfort, as advised by Dr. Abdul Majeed Al-Bannai, head of the Football Association’s Medical Committee.

Dr. Al-Bannai confirmed Ashkanani will continue training under medical supervision. He also pointed out that some drop in physical condition is expected, as the domestic season has concluded, and players may lack proper recovery training. “The medical staff is closely monitoring all players to ensure full readiness for both matches,” he said.

The Asian Football Confederation has appointed a Tajik officiating crew for Kuwait’s clash against Palestine. Sadullo Gulmoradi will serve as the referee, assisted by Hasan Karimov and Farkhad Karilov, with Abdul Davalitov as fourth official. Emirati referees Mohammed Obaid and Yahya Al-Mulla will manage VAR duties.

The Palestinian national team began its preparations with a training session yesterday at Thamer Stadium and will hold a second session this evening at the same venue. Their final practice before the match will take place tomorrow night at Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium, where the game is scheduled to be played on Thursday.

By Khaled Al-Enezi

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff