Qadsia rues missed calls, difficult conditions in Al-Rayyan defeat

Qadsia and Al-Rayyan players battling for the ball (not seen) during the Gulf Champions League match.

KUWAIT CITY, April 20: Kuwait Club completed final preparations for its decisive clash against Kyrgyz club Muras United in the West Zone final of the AFC Challenge League, as Qadsia’s exit from the Gulf Champions League was attributed to difficult circumstances and controversial officiating.

Qadsia’s 2-0 defeat to Qatar’s Al-Rayyan in the semifinal in Doha was influenced by several factors that disrupted the team’s campaign. The suspension of sporting activity in Kuwait since early March due to regional conditions affected match readiness, while delays in securing travel visas further hampered preparations and led to a late arrival in Qatar.

The “Yellow” side also missed several key players; most notably, captain Bader Al-Mutawa, in addition to Khaled Ibrahim, Talal Al-Fadhel, Abdulaziz Wadi, and Mubarak Al-Faneni.

Refereeing decisions added to Qadsia’s problems as the officiating crew, led by Bahraini referee Ammar Mahfoodh, was criticized for not awarding a clear penalty to Mehdi Humaidan and for overlooking a foul on goalkeeper Hamid Al-Qallaf in the build-up to Al-Rayyan’s second goal, despite VAR being in use.

Qadsia coach Nabil Maaloul acknowledged that Al-Rayyan deserved the victory, citing its technical and physical superiority, while praising his players for their effort under difficult conditions.

Al-Rayyan’s Spanish coach, Vicente Moreno, expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance and qualification, noting their strong cohesion and confidence, while expecting a tough and balanced final.

The Kuwaiti side advanced after a 5-3 win over Oman’s Al-Shabab, while Muras United secured a 3-0 victory over Lebanon’s Al-Ansar.

The winner will meet the Cambodian side Preah Khan Reach Svay Rieng in the final scheduled for May 9, with the venue yet to be determined.

Head coach Nebojsa Jovovic opted for light training for players who featured in the previous match to avoid injuries, especially with limited recovery time between fixtures.

By Hassan Mosa

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff