Kuwait Club players defend as an opponent makes a goal attempt.

KUWAIT CITY, March 23: Kuwait Club faces Al-Salmiya at 9:30 pm at Sheikh Saad Al-Abdullah Sports Hall, marking its second showdown in six days to conclude the 12th round of the preliminary handball league. Their last encounter, in the Super Cup semifinals on March 18, saw Kuwait Club defeat Al-Salmiya 37-32 at the same venue.

Under the leadership of newly appointed Algerian coach Said Hegazi, Kuwait Club (The Dean) aims to maintain its perfect league record, sitting at the top with 22 points from 11 matches. The team will rely on stars Frankis Marzo, Angel Hernandez, Abdullah Al-Khamis, Saif Al-Adwani, Mishari Saywan, Mishaal Taha, and Mohammed Amer, with Hassan Safar anchoring the defense. Despite injury concerns, Kuwait Club boasts strong squad depth with quality replacements available in every position.

Meanwhile, Al-Salmiya SC is determined to avenge its Super Cup loss. Under national coach Yaqoub Al-Moussawi, the team showcased strong performances in the Super Cup’s third and fourth rounds, including a victory over Al-Arabi. German professional Valentin Spohn, alongside Yahya Zamoushi, Rakan Taqi, Ali Al-Balushi, and Haider Dashti, will be key players in its quest for redemption.

Al-Tadamon secured its first league win, edging Al-Yarmouk 25-24 in a thrilling contest.

Burgan dominated Khaitan SC 44-31, strengthening its position in the standings.

By Khaled Al-Enezi

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff