Sheikh Al-Yousef hands the cup to Hamoud in the presence of Al-Ghanim, Osama, Mubarak and Al-Ayoub.

KUWAIT CITY, Jan 29: Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Kuwait Football Association, Sheikh Ahmad Al-Yousef, congratulated Kuwait Club on securing the Super Cup title for the eighth time in its history. He extended his best wishes to Al-Qadisiya and all other teams for success in the upcoming tournaments. Kuwait Club triumphed over Al-Qadsiya 7-6 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in a thrilling final held at Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium.

Sheikh Al-Yousef remarked that Al-Qadsiya was the better team overall, but Kuwait Club’s experience, particularly that of its professional players, was key in clinching the title."

He highlighted the electric atmosphere of the match, emphasizing that the turnout exceeded 22,000 spectators. Sheikh Al-Yousef also praised the efforts of various organizing committees and the "Kuwaiti Youth" for orchestrating a successful and distinguished final. He noted that the efficiency of Kuwaiti cadres in managing the event bodes well for their role in future finals.

Discussing the venue change, Sheikh Al-Yousef explained that Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium was chosen due to its advanced lighting facilities and greater capacity, making it a more suitable location for the final compared to Jaber Al-Mubarak Stadium.

Kuwait Club President Khaled Al-Ghanim expressed his delight at his team's Super Cup victory, describing the achievement as reinforcing its status as "Leader and Super Champion."

He credited the team's experience for their success and commended the players, technical staff, administrative personnel, and medical team for their collective efforts. Al-Ghanim congratulated the club’s honorary president, Marzouq Al-Ghanim, and wished Al-Qadsiya’s players and fans success in future competitions.

"The match was challenging against Al-Qadsiya, but Kuwait Club’s experience in finals played a crucial role in securing the victory, even if the performance was not at its best throughout the game," he stated.

Dismissing any immediate changes to the team, Al-Ghanim affirmed that the squad, including both the technical staff and professional players, remains stable. He emphasized that Kuwait Club’s performance in local tournaments continues to be strong and consistent.

Adel Aqla acknowledged that Kuwait Club faced a determined opponent in Al-Qadsiya. However, he credited the team’s confidence and experience in deciding the title despite their rival’s advantage at times during the match.

Aqla also dismissed any attempts to downplay the tournament's significance, stressing that every competition held under the Federation's umbrella holds great value. He criticized those who underestimate such achievements, reminding them of the extensive efforts made by club administrations throughout the season.

By Hassan Mosa

Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff