KUWAIT CITY, May 6Al-Arabi faces Al-Nasr this afternoon in what promises to be a challenging encounter, kicking off at 5:35. Following that, at 8:15 pm, Al-Qadisiya will square off against Al-Salmiya at Thamer Stadium, marking the conclusion of the sixth round of the championship group in the Zain Premier League.
In the first match, Al-Arabi, currently positioned second with 51 points, anticipates a tough battle against Al-Nasr. Despite Al-Arabi’s dominance in its previous four encounters this season, winning three times (3-1, 6-3 in the league, and 3-1 in the Prince’s Cup), it remains vigilant as one of its two losses this season came against Al-Nasr (1-3 in the league), alongside a defeat to Kuwait Club(1-2). Coach Nasser Al-Shatti emphasizes the significance of this match, understanding that dropping points now could diminish its title aspirations as the competition nears its end. Following a valuable draw against league leader Kuwait Club, Al-Arabi aims to reignite its winning streak, albeit aware of the psychological pressure this may entail.
Conversely, Al-Nasr, coached by Zaher Al-Adwani, approaches the match without significant pressure but is eager to reverse its recent winless streak, which has seen it slip to the bottom of the standings.
In the second clash, tonight’s match between Al-Qadisiya and Al-Salmiya is a prelude to their upcoming showdown in the Amir Cup final on May 21.
Al-Qadisiya, positioned third with 49 points, aims to bolster its title contention and reaffirm its superiority over Al-Salmiya, having secured victories in two out of three league encounters (4-1, 1-0) and sharing one draw (1-1). Coach Mohammed Al-Mashaan and his team understand the imperative of securing every point to keep their title hopes alive. Meanwhile, Al-Salmiya, led by Croatian coach Ante Misha, currently occupies fourth place with 31 points.
Hassan Musa
Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff