KUWAIT CITY, Jan 6: Awaiting positive developments, Al-Qadisiya and former Kuwait standout Badr Al-Mutawa is on the brink of potentially clinching the coveted title of all-time top scorer in the local league during the fourteenth round of the Zain Premier League.

Currently, Syrian striker Firas Al-Khatib holds the record with 162 goals amassed throughout his illustrious career with Al-Nasr, Al-Arabi, Al-Qadisiya, Al-Kuwait, and Kazma clubs. In the previous round, Al-Qadisiya netted a goal against Al-Arabi, initially credited to Youssef Bin Souda but later awarded to Al-Mutawa after video technology review by Romanian referee Mane Istvan Kovacs. This goal elevated Al-Mutawa to the leading scorer in "derby" matches with an impressive tally of 17 goals.

Al-Mutawa now requires just one more goal to match Al-Khatib's record. The crucial opportunity awaits as Al-Qadisiya faces Al-Nasr at 8:00 pm in the kickoff of the fourteenth round. Simultaneously, Kuwait Club contends with Khaitan at Nasser Al-Osaimi Stadium at 5:35 pm.

As the league unfolds, Kuwait Club presently leads the standings with 30 points, maintaining a goal difference advantage over second-placed Al-Arabi. Al-Qadisiya secures the third spot with 29 points, followed by Al-Nasr with 21 points. The tour continues with two matches tomorrow, including Al-Shabab vs. Kazma and Al-Arabi against Al-Fahaheel, with a final clash the day after tomorrow featuring Salmiya against Al-Jahra.

In today's crucial clash, front-runner Kuwait Club strives to secure another victory, learning from the previous draw with Al-Salmiya in the twelfth round, allowing Al-Arabi to temporarily reclaim the top spot. Meanwhile, Al-Qadisiya faces a challenging task despite a previous victory over Al-Nasr, as recent performances have showcased a decline in form. Both teams aim to navigate through a competitive round to maintain or improve their league positions.

Hassan Musa

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff