14/11/2026
Share:
14/11/2026
Share:
KUWAIT CITY, Nov 14: Sulaibikhat has booked its place in the Handball Federation Cup final for the first time in 18 years, reviving memories of its last appearance in the title decider in 2008, when it lost to Qadsia.
The Northern Reds secured their return to the final by edging Al-Arabi 19-18 in the semifinal of the competition carried over from the 2025-2026 season.
In the other semifinal, Burgan overcame Kazma 31-29 to set up a showdown with Sulaibikhat for the trophy.
Sulaibikhat, who was crowned Asian champion in 2009, has lifted the Federation Cup twice, in 2002 and 2005, and will now target a third title. Burgan, the 2026 Asian champion, is seeking its first domestic trophy. Meanwhile, Kazma and Al-Arabi will contest the third-place playoff.
Al-Arabi made headlines last week by eliminating defending champion Kuwait Club in one of the tournament's biggest upsets. That victory provided the Green Castle with a major confidence boost and raised expectations of another strong run towards the final, especially given Kuwait Club's dominance of domestic competitions in recent years.
However, Al-Arabi could not maintain that momentum against an ambitious Sulaibikhat side, which delivered a strong display to claim a deserved 19-18 victory and a place in the final.
The Green Castle appeared below the level they had shown against Kuwait Club, with fatigue seemingly affecting their players after an exhausting previous encounter that required two extra periods.
Sulaibikhat took full advantage, imposed its game plan, and held on to its narrow lead to seal qualification.
The other semifinal between Burgan and Kazma was equally competitive, with neither side able to establish a comfortable advantage. Burgan, however, showed greater composure and experience in the decisive stages, preserving its lead until the final whistle to secure a deserved 31-29 win and a place in the title match.
By Khaled Al-Enezi
Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff
