Players training for the opener.

DOHA, Dec 1 (KUNA): Kuwait head coach Hélio Sousa says his squad is fully prepared for its 2025 FIFA Arab Cup opener against Egypt on Tuesday, while acknowledging the “difficult” challenge awaiting it.

Speaking at a press conference, the Portuguese tactician praised his team’s consistency and spirit, expressing confidence in achieving a positive result—especially after Kuwait’s convincing 2–0 playoff victory over Mauritania, which secured their place in the Qatar-hosted tournament.

Looking ahead to the clash with Egypt, Sousa described the opponents as a team “full of quality,” noting that African sides traditionally deliver some of the strongest performances in the Arab Cup. He emphasized that the match would serve as a true test of Kuwait’s capabilities.

Right winger Eid Al-Rashidi echoed his coach’s remarks, saying the squad completed intensive, tactically focused training sessions designed to address mistakes identified in previous outings.

Egypt’s head coach Helmy Toulan affirmed his team’s readiness as well, expressing confidence in captain and key midfielder Amr El-Solia, who stressed the team’s primary ambition of making a deep run in the tournament.

Kuwait and Egypt are grouped alongside the UAE and Jordan in Group Three of the 2025 FIFA Arab Cup, which will be held in Doha from December 1 to 18.