KUWAIT CITY, Dec 26: Al-Kuwait surged ahead in the Zain Premier League, securing a commanding lead with 26 points after the eleventh round, courtesy of a spectacular six-goal performance against Kazma. This propelled Al-Abyad ahead of Al-Arabi, who held the lead three rounds ago, with a goal difference. Al-Qadsia closely pursued in third place, trailing by just one point.

The latest round unfolded as the most thrilling, featuring unprecedented events and a flurry of cards. Referees brandished the red card seven times, with notable expulsions including Daniel Gebula and Aziz Nassari of Nigerian Al-Qadsia during the match against Al-Jahra. The clash between Al-Arabi and Al-Shabab witnessed the dismissals of Hamad Al-Qallaf and Moroccan player Walid Sabbar from Al-Arabi, along with Al-Shabab's Mohammed Al-Qabandi. Al-Nasr's Hansel Zapata and Salman Bormia faced ejections against Al-Salmiya, while Al-Fahaheel's Majed Al-Anzi also saw the red card.

The Al-Arabi match not only featured expulsions but also unusual incidents, including player contact and an attack on the refereeing team in the Al-Nasr and Al-Salmiya match.

In a remarkable turnaround, Al-Kuwait, under the guidance of Tunisian coach Nabil Maaloul, achieved the highest result of the season, surpassing their previous triumph over Kazma. Al-Abyad's 5-2 victory sent a clear message to rivals that relinquishing the title would not be an easy task.

Al-Arabi faced a tough challenge against Al-Shabab, securing a late goal in stoppage time to clinch three crucial points, irrespective of the performance level. Al-Qadsia also struggled but secured victory in the dying moments, emphasizing the importance of timing.

While Al-Nasr maintained its fourth position with 17 points, refusing to concede to Al-Salmiya, who remained in fifth place with 15 points, other teams faced setbacks. Kazma continued its decline with 13 points, while Al-Fahaheel's 1-0 win against Khaitan elevated them to seventh place with 12 points, distancing them from the danger zone. Al-Shabab dropped to eighth place with 11 points, consistently losing ground. Al-Jahra, with only two points, faced imminent relegation after suffering its ninth defeat.

By Hassan Musa

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff