Kuwait reflects on defeat as Qatar arrives for a rematch in the World Cup qualifiers

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KUWAIT CITY, March 23: This Sunday evening marks the commencement of the second training session for Kuwait as they gear up to face the Qatari team on Tuesday at Ali Sabah Al Salem Stadium. This crucial match is part of the fourth round of the first group of Asian qualifiers for both the World Cup finals in the United States of America, Canada, and Mexico in 2026 and the Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia in 2027.

Having returned to the country just two days ago after a match against the Qatari team in Doha, where they suffered a 3-0 defeat, the Blue Delegation currently stands in third place with 3 points. The Qatari team leads the standings with 9 points, followed by India with four points, while Afghanistan occupies fourth place with only one point.

Reflecting on the recent defeat, Kuwait’s Portuguese national team coach, Rui Pinto, acknowledged the team’s strong performance in the first half but noted a loss of focus in the second half, leading to their downfall. Pinto emphasized the need to learn from such matches, especially for the newer players, and shift focus to the upcoming match.

On the opposing side, Qatar’s national team coach, Marquez Lopez, commended his team’s performance in the second half and highlighted their ability to capitalize on opportunities. As the Qatar national team delegation prepares to arrive in Kuwait tomorrow afternoon, they plan to engage in light training only after breakfast on the day of arrival.

Khaled El Anzi

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff

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