KUWAIT CITY, April 6: Kuwaiti soccer enthusiasts are eagerly anticipating an exciting Ramadan evening as Al-Arabi and Al-Qadisiya clash at 9:30 pm in Sabah Al-Salem Stadium. This showdown marks the pinnacle of the third round of championship group matches in the Zain Premier League.

The match is important for both sides, transcending the traditional derby rivalry. The “Green” and “Yellow” teams are vying for the league title, with Al-Arabi holding second place with 46 points and Al-Qadisiya closely trailing in third with 45 points, just behind league leaders Kuwait Club (47 points). Kuwait Club faces a challenging match against Al-Salmiya in the upcoming round.

Additionally, this match takes on a national significance, particularly with the clash between Al-Qadisiya’s coach, Mohammed Al-Mashaan, and Al-Arabi’s newly appointed coach, Nasser Al-Shatti. Al-Shatti’s arrival follows the dismissal of Bosnian Nestorovic after a 1-1 draw with Al-Salmiya, marking the first time in several years that national coaches will manage the derby.

Recent history favors Al-Arabi in the derby encounters. Last season, Al-Arabi triumphed over Al-Qadisiya three times out of five matches, securing two league victories (2-0 and 3-1) and eliminating them from the Crown Prince Cup semi-finals with a comprehensive 3-0 win. However, Al-Qadisiya managed one league victory (2-1) and a goalless draw in their encounters.

In the current season, today’s match marks the fourth meeting between the rivals. Al-Qadisiya made their mark by eliminating Al-Arabi from the Prince’s Cup semi-finals with a 2-1 victory. The league clashes ended in draws: 1-1 and 2-2. Fans of Al-Arabi are pinning hopes on coach Nasser Al-Shatti, aiming to restore the team’s convincing performances and maintain their title contention. Conversely, Al-Qadisiya fans are optimistic about the team’s recent offensive prowess, demonstrated by convincing wins in recent rounds.

The outcome of this highly anticipated match will have significant implications for both teams’ aspirations in the league title race.

Hassan Musa

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff