Qadsia sets up AFC Challenge League quarterfinal clash with Ansar

Qadsia players celebrate after scoring against India’s Goa.

KUWAIT CITY, Oct 24: Qadsia secured its place in the AFC Challenge League quarterfinals after beating India’s Goa 2-1 in the final round of Group C at Mohammed Al-Hamad Stadium.

The Kuwaiti side will face Lebanon’s Ansar in a two-legged quarterfinal, with the matches scheduled for March 3 and 13.

Qadsia finished top of Group C with a perfect nine points from three matches, underlining its strong form in the continental competition.

Moroccan striker Hamza Khabba opened the scoring in the 10th minute, but Goa drew level through Chheki in the 21st minute to send the teams into halftime tied at 1-1.

Khabba struck again four minutes after the restart, scoring in the 49th minute to seal the victory and confirm Qadsia’s place in the knockout stage.

After securing qualification, Qadsia coach Mohammed Ibrahim, known as “The General,” said the team had achieved its primary objective of advancing as group winners.

He acknowledged the pressure of playing three matches in six days, particularly with Qadsia hosting the group and expected to deliver results. Ibrahim said he was pleased the team had secured direct qualification without leaving its fate to complicated calculations.

The coach also praised Goa, describing them as a competitive opponent whose performance required Qadsia to remain focused and cautious throughout the match.

Ibrahim commended the commitment of both local and foreign players, highlighting their ability to withstand the demanding schedule. He also pointed to squad rotation and several changes to the starting lineup as important factors in managing the physical demands of the tournament.

He added that Qadsia was improving steadily, with the experience of veteran Bader Al-Mutawa and the contributions of the new foreign players proving increasingly valuable in decisive moments.

With its continental campaign temporarily on hold, Qadsia will now turn its attention to domestic duties. The team is scheduled to meet Shabab on Wednesday in the sixth round of the Zain Premier League.

Ibrahim stressed that Kuwaiti clubs need more international and overseas fixtures to raise their competitive standards and improve their chances of success in Asian competitions.

He expressed hope that Kazma and Kuwait Club would qualify for the Gulf Club Champions League and AFC Champions League Two, respectively. He also wished Al-Arabi success in future competitions following their elimination from the AFC Challenge League.

By Hassan Mosa

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff