Resilient Kuwait Club reaches Challenge League final

Kuwait Club and Muras United players are fighting for the ball.

BISHKEK, April 22: Kuwait Club secured a place in the final of the AFC Challenge League after overturning a one-goal deficit to defeat Kyrgyz side Muras United 2-1 in their semifinal clash at Dolon Omurzakov Stadium in Bishkek.

The Kuwaiti side will face Cambodia’s Svay Rieng in the final on May 9, with the host venue yet to be confirmed.

Head coach Nebojsa Jovovic retained the same lineup that featured in the quarterfinal victory over Oman’s Al-Shabab. Khaled Al-Rashidi started in goal, while the defense included Mohammed Furaih, Arsene Zola, Mehdi Barrahma, and Ali Hussein. The midfield trio of Ahmad Al-Dhafiri, Amr Abdel Fattah, and Reda Hani supported Mohammed Marhoon, with Mohammed Daham and Yassine Khenissi leading the attack.

The opening stages were cautious, with both teams showing defensive discipline. Kuwait controlled possession but struggled to create clear chances, while Muras looked to counter.

Kuwait Club threatened early through Barrahma, whose header went narrowly wide, before Amr missed a key opportunity inside the box. Muras gradually grew into the game and broke the deadlock in the 36th minute through captain Amir Zaparov, who curled a superb free kick into the top corner.

Kuwait Club responded strongly, increasing the tempo and pushing forward in search of an equalizer. Their efforts paid off just before halftime when Marhoon finished a well-worked move following a precise assist from Amr.

The visitors carried their momentum into the second half and completed the turnaround shortly after the restart. Barrahma rose to meet a corner from Amr and headed home to give Kuwait a 2-1 lead.

Muras pressed for a response, but Kuwait’s solid defensive organization and the alertness of Al-Rashidi kept the hosts at bay. Kuwait continued to pose a threat on the counter, with Amr striking the post after an impressive individual effort.

Kuwait Club managed the closing stages with composure, sealing a deserved victory and booking its place in the final.

By Hassan Mosa

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff