Qadsia needs draw against Goa to reach the Challenge League quarters

Al-Rawahi, scorer of the winning goal against Regar-TadAZ.

KUWAIT CITY: Qadsia need just a draw against India’s Goa to secure the top spot in Group C and advance to the quarterfinals of the AFC Challenge League when the sides meet at 8:30 pm on Friday at Mohammed Al-Hamad Stadium.

In the group’s other final-round match, Tajikistan’s Regar-TadAZ faces Bangladesh’s Fortis at 4:25 pm at the same venue.

Qadsia leads the standings with six points, followed by Goa and Regar-TadAZ on three points each. Fortis has been eliminated after losing its first two matches.

The three West Asia group winners and the best runner-up will qualify for the quarterfinals. A win or draw would guarantee Qadsia first place, while a defeat could complicate its qualification hopes.

Coach Mohammed Ibrahim will expect his players to maintain the form they showed in their opening two matches. Despite having the advantage of needing only a draw, Qadsia must avoid complacency and approach the match with the determination to win.

Arabi will seek its first victory of the season when it faces Lebanon’s Nejmeh at 2:00 pm in its final Group B match at Hisor Central Stadium in Tajikistan.

The Green has already been eliminated after defeats to Syria’s Homs Al-Fida (1-0) and Tajikistan’s Istiklol (2-0).

Coach Mohamed Abdelnabi will be eager to see his side finish the campaign with a win after a difficult start to the season. Arabi lost 4-1 to India’s East Bengal in the AFC Champions League Two qualifying playoff, drew three matches in the Zain Premier League, and suffered a 2-1 defeat to Jahra.

A victory would provide a timely morale boost ahead of the team’s return to Kuwait and Tuesday’s Zain Premier League match against Fahaheel.

By Hassan Mosa

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff