Latest news with #Al-Qadsia
Arab Times
5 days ago
- Sport
- Arab Times
Maaloul: 10 years without a league title is unacceptable for Qadsia
KUWAIT CITY, July 17: Al-Qadsia began its preseason training at Farouq Ibrahim Stadium, led by Tunisian head coach Nabil Maaloul, as the team prepares for the upcoming Zain Premier League season starting on September 12. The first session saw 31 players in attendance, with training set to continue until the team departs for an overseas camp in early August, which will include several friendly matches. Before training commenced, Maaloul held a meeting with the players, urging them to give their utmost effort this season and emphasizing the importance of full commitment to achieve the club's goals. Speaking to the press after the session, Maaloul said, 'A club with Qadsia's history and prestige should never go ten years without winning the league title.' He vowed to intensify preparations to ensure the team is fully ready for all competitions. He added, 'Qadsia will compete in four domestic tournaments plus the Gulf Champions League, and we intend to fight for every trophy.' Maaloul noted that while Kuwaiti players are talented, they often lack motivation, pointing to the difference in the team's performances domestically versus in regional competitions. The coach stressed, 'Kuwaiti players have great potential but need to improve their work ethic, discipline, and focus.' He called for a change in mentality on the field and comprehensive readiness for every match, whether local or international. Media coordinator Abdullah Al-Ansari confirmed that new signings will be announced soon to strengthen the squad, alongside recent contract renewals. He said the coaching staff is keen to bring in quality players who will add strength and discipline to the team. Al-Ansari described a positive atmosphere within the team, stating, 'The players showed great enthusiasm in the locker room.' He also dismissed rumors about goalkeeper Hameed Al-Qallaf retiring, explaining that although he had been absent for two seasons, he had now officially returned. 'All goalkeepers have full support from the technical staff,' he added. Captain Bader Al-Mutawa missed the session but is expected to join training on Sunday. Moroccan Mehdi Berrahma is set to return on Saturday. The session included Libyan Mohamed Soula, Moroccan Ismail Khafi, goalkeeper Hameed Al-Qallaf, and several players from the under-20 youth squad. Assistant coach Saleh Al-Sheikh recently earned his PRO coaching license. He has served with Qadsia's first team for several seasons and will continue as part of Maaloul's staff this season.
Arab Times
29-06-2025
- Sport
- Arab Times
Kuwait Club continues Handball Cup dominance
KUWAIT CITY, June 29: Kuwait Club continued its stronghold on local handball by narrowly defeating Al-Qadsia 30-29 in the final of the 57th edition of the Handball Cup at Sheikh Saad Al-Abdullah Sports Complex in Sabah Al-Salem. In the third-place playoff, Al-Salmiya secured a 34-28 win over Kazma. This latest triumph marks Kuwait Club's 15th Handball Cup title and its 12th consecutive victory in the competition. The win also completes a remarkable league and cup double for the 2024-2025 season, while Kazma claimed the Super Cup. Khaled Al-Ghanim, Chairman of Kuwait Club's Board of Directors, emphasized that the championship was the result of exceptional teamwork and collective effort, which have cemented the club's prominence in the local handball scene. 'Our successes come not only from the dedication of our players and staff but also from the unwavering support of our fans—the strongest and most vital link in our journey,' he said. Al-Ghanim expressed gratitude to the Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs, Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, for his dedication to Kuwaiti sports and for fostering media coverage that enhances the nation's sporting achievements. He also congratulated Al-Qadsia for their spirited performance and exemplary sportsmanship during the final. He praised the Handball Association's Secretary-General, Qaid Al-Adwani, and the Board of Directors for organizing a highly successful season, noting that the intense final between Kuwait Club and Al-Qadsia was among the most competitive in recent years. Highlighting Kuwait Club's dominance, Al-Ghanim remarked that winning nearly all team sports championships this season aligns with the club's long-term ambition to consistently reach the top. Looking ahead, he revealed that the club's technical and administrative teams will convene soon to develop plans for the upcoming season, including decisions on both professional and local player lineups. Kuwait Handball Association Secretary Qaid Al-Adwani thanked the enthusiastic crowds at the final, underscoring how their presence added a special atmosphere. 'Kuwait Club and Al-Qadsia delivered a spectacular match that showcased the strength and evolution of Kuwaiti handball,' he said. Adwani also shared optimism about the 2025-2026 season, which promises to feature an even higher level of competition and innovative initiatives from the Board. The association is exploring sponsorship opportunities for the Premier League, including financial incentives for players, aimed at raising the quality and excitement of the league. Ali Al-Khader, head coach of the Al-Ameed handball team, reflected on the long and challenging season, noting it spanned from national team commitments with Haitham Al-Rashidi to the leadership of esteemed Saeed Hejazi. He highlighted the team's achievement in winning both the league and cup titles and revealed plans to participate in six local and international tournaments, with preparations set to begin in August. Abdulaziz Al-Shammari of Al-Abyad congratulated his teammates for overcoming injuries and player absences to defeat a strong Al-Qadsiya squad. He also praised the fans and club management for their vital roles in this success. Meanwhile, Kuwait Club's Hussein Al-Mutawa credited the team's excellent performance this season to the hard work of the technical and administrative staff, and the steadfast support of club management led by Khaled Al-Ghanim, who helped the team overcome challenges to secure both league and cup titles.
Arab Times
18-06-2025
- Sport
- Arab Times
Kuwaiti legend Al-Mutawa extends career with Al-Qadsia
KUWAIT CITY, June 18: Al-Qadsia has officially announced the renewal of veteran star Bader Al-Mutawa's contract, solidifying his legacy with the "Yellow" club where he began his football journey in 2001. The move allows the 39-year-old icon to continue his illustrious career into a 24th season. Widely regarded as the most prominent figure in Kuwaiti football over the past two decades, Al-Mutawa remains a symbol of loyalty and excellence. Despite Al-Qadsia not securing any titles last season, Al-Mutawa left a noticeable impact with his performance and leadership on the pitch. In a statement on its official 'X' platform, Al-Qadsia wrote: "In a time when loyalties have changed and jerseys have been swapped, the legend Bader Al-Mutawa has remained loyal to Al-Qadsia, which has known no other home and held no other heart. There is still time for glory." The club aims to leverage Al-Mutawa's experience as it prepares for upcoming domestic and international competitions. His continued presence is expected to provide not only technical value but also serve as inspiration to younger players. Al-Mutawa has amassed a remarkable list of honors with Al-Qadsia, including: 9 Kuwait Premier League titles; 7 Amir Cups; 8 Crown Prince Cups;6 Super Cups;1 AFC Cup; 1 Gulf Clubs Cup; 1 Gulf Cup for national teams (2003) Individual Accolades: World's Top Scorer (2010); AFC's Second Best Player (2006, 2010); All-time top scorer in Kuwaiti domestic competitions; FIFA-recognized all-time international caps record holder (2022) Top Kuwaiti scorer in both the AFC Champions League and the AFC Cup; Scored his 300th goal for Al-Qadsia in May 2021 Al-Mutawa also had brief stints abroad with Al-Nassr (Saudi Arabia) and Qatar SC, but always returned to his home club, maintaining an unmatched career defined by loyalty, leadership, and longevity.
Arab Times
28-05-2025
- Sport
- Arab Times
Al-Qadsia targets Amir Cup final as Kuwait Club eyes historic quadruple
KUWAIT CITY, May 28: Soccer fans are eagerly anticipating the highly awaited 'Classico between Al-Qadsia and Kuwait Club at 8:30 pm at Ali Sabah Al-Salem Stadium in the semi-finals of the Amir Cup today. The other semifinal will see Al-Arabi face Al-Salmiya on Friday, also at 8:30 pm at the same venue. Kuwait Club reached this stage by defeating Al-Jazeera 3-0 in the preliminary round and edging Khaitan 1-0 in the quarter-finals. Al-Qadsia advanced after a 3-2 win over Burgan in the preliminaries, followed by a dominant 3-0 victory against Al-Fahaheel in the quarters. This will be the fourth face-off between the two rivals this season. In the Zain Premier League, Kuwait Club claimed two victories (3-1 and 1-0), while Al-Qadsia earned a 2-1 win. The two also met in the Super Cup final, where Kuwait Club lifted the trophy after a 1-1 draw and a 7-6 penalty shootout victory. Having already won the league, Crown Prince Cup, and Super Cup, Kuwait Club aims to complete a remarkable season by reaching the final and securing a fourth trophy. Coach Nebojsa Jovovic acknowledges the challenge, noting Al-Qadsia's recent form improvement and determination to defend their title. He will rely on a strong squad featuring: Meshari Ghannam, Yahya Jabran, Yousef Nasser, Ali Hussein, Reda Hani, Ahmed Al-Dhafiri, Amin Abu Al-Fath, Mohammed Marhoon, Mohammed Daham, and Ahmed Al-Zanki. Reigning champion Al-Qadsia is determined to end the season on a high, return to the final, and defend its Amir Cup crown. Despite a rough patch earlier in the season, the team rebounded with an impressive quarter-final win over Al-Fahaheel, who had recently beaten it 7-4 in league play. Coach Zeljko Petrovic, whose contract expires on Saturday, hopes to cap off his tenure with a title run, though he hinted at staying on if the team reaches the final. His key players include: Bader Al-Mutawa, Eid Al-Rashidi, Ismail Khafi, Hussein Dahiri, Mubarak Al-Fanini, Abdulaziz Wadi, Khaled Sabah, Al-Mahdi Barahma, Daniel Jibola, and Adhbi Shehab.
Arab Times
26-05-2025
- Sport
- Arab Times
Kazma seeks revenge as Kuwait Club eyes fourth consecutive win in rivalry
KUWAIT CITY, May 26: The semifinals of the Basketball Federation Cup will tip off today at the Federation Hall within the Sheikh Saad Al-Abdullah Indoor Halls Complex, promising two intense showdowns. At 5:00 pm, Kuwait Club will face Kazma, followed by defending champion Al-Qadsia against Al-Sulaibikhat at 7:00 pm. The opening match is expected to be the most competitive of the evening, as Kuwait Club and Kazma reignite a rivalry that has seen them clash in the decisive league finals three times — all victories for Kuwait Club. Those past wins were attributed to Kuwait Club's cohesive performances on both ends of the court. However, today's contest poses a new challenge for team captain Hussein Al-Khabbaz and key players, including Hamad and Mohammed Adnan, Imran Johar, Turki Hamoud, Alexander Al-Ghais, Fahad Al-Dhafiri, Abdulrahman Al-Juma, Yousef Al-Hamdan, and Musaed Al-Otaibi. They will also rely heavily on the contributions of their professional trio: Jakar Sampson, Robert Lowry, and Jamal Jones. Kazma, last season's Cup runner-up, enters the semifinals determined to clinch a title, especially as the Federation Cup marks the final championship opportunity this season. Much depends on the fitness of captain Ahmed Al-Balushi, who missed crucial games during the league title race. The team's prospects will also hinge on the performance of Abdulrahman Al-Sahou, Youssef Burhama, Abdullah Ibrahim, and Hamad Al-Ali, in addition to the sharpshooting abilities of American Johnny Brahamskel and the inside presence of fellow professionals Joan Johnson and Dwayne Jackson. In the second semifinal, national coach Fahad Barjas will look to orchestrate a surprise upset as Al-Sulaibikhat takes on powerhouse Al-Qadsia. The defending champion enters the match with strong momentum, boasting high technical and physical readiness and superior individual talents across their roster. On the administrative side, the General Assembly of the Kuwait Basketball Association convened at the Association's headquarters in the Sheikh Saad Al-Abdullah Indoor Halls Complex. During the meeting, members approved both the financial and administrative reports for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2025. The Assembly also gave the green light to the Association's 2025–2026 work plan and proposed budget. Twelve of the thirteen affiliated clubs were present, with only Yarmouk Club absent.
