Kuwait Olympic team faces must-win clash against Philippines

Players preparing for the key clash.

NAGOYA, Sept 20: The Kuwait Olympic team (U-23) will wrap up preparations this evening for Tuesday’s crucial Group C clash against the Philippines at the 20th Asian Games Aichi-Nagoya 2026.

Kuwait is third in the group with one point, behind leaders Uzbekistan on six points and Vietnam on four. The Philippines are bottom without a point and have already been eliminated, while Uzbekistan has secured their place in the quarterfinals.

Kuwait needs to beat the Philippines by at least three goals and hope Uzbekistan defeat Vietnam by two goals to keep their quarterfinal hopes alive. A Vietnam win or draw would end Kuwait’s campaign.

Kuwait opened the tournament with a 1-1 draw against Vietnam before suffering a 2-0 defeat to Uzbekistan. Vietnam beat the Philippines 2-0 in the group’s other second-round match.

Kuwait coach David Doniga met with the players during the final training sessions and urged them to avoid the mistakes made against Uzbekistan. The coaching staff also worked on exploiting the Philippines’ weaknesses while limiting the threat posed by their key players.

Doniga stressed the need for greater organization and disciplined positioning, while asking each player to clearly understand his role, follow instructions, and execute the tactical plan as Kuwait seeks the result required to advance.

By Hassan Mosa

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff