Nabil Maâloul directs Qadsia players from the touchline.

KUWAIT CITY, Feb 11: Qadsia head coach Nabil Maâloul has voiced his hope that his team’s upcoming clash against Burgan in the preliminary round of the Amir Cup, scheduled for Saturday, will be postponed.

The request comes as Al-Qadsia prepares for a crucial encounter against Al-Ain of the UAE next Wednesday in the sixth and final round of Group A in the GCC Champions League. Speaking after his side’s 1-0 victory over Iraq’s Zakho, Maâloul said postponing the Burgan fixture would allow the team to prepare properly for the decisive trip to the UAE.

“Al-Qadsia represents Kuwait, and we hope the match will be postponed,” he said, stressing the importance of adequate recovery and preparation time. Maâloul highlighted the demanding schedule his team has faced in recent weeks, including high-profile matches against Al-Arabi and Kuwait Club in the Super Cup, as well as a league clash with Kuwait Club before the Zakho game. He noted that such intense fixtures require significant physical effort from the players.

The win over Zakho lifted Al-Qadsia to seven points in third place in the group, keeping its hopes of qualification alive. It will meet second-placed Al-Ain, who has nine points, while Zakho top the group with 10 points.

The Tunisian coach also pointed to the impact of injuries in recent weeks, which led to inconsistent performances and disappointing results. However, he added that the return of injured players and adjustments to the foreign roster have helped restore balance to the squad, praising his players for their improved displays.

By Hassan Mosa

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff