Latest news with #KhaledAl-Ghanim
Kuwait Times
30-06-2025
- Sport
- Kuwait Times
Kuwait SC clinch 15th Handball Federation Cup
Salmiya bag bronze after beating Kazma in high-tempo third-place match KUWAIT: In a thrilling end to the local handball season, Kuwait SC snatched a dramatic 30-29 victory over Qadsiya in the final of the 2024–2025 Kuwait Handball Federation Cup, claiming the title for the 15th time in its history — and for the 12th consecutive season. The final showdown, held at Sheikh Saad Al-Abdullah Indoor Sports Hall, drew a packed crowd and delivered action from the very first seconds. Both teams came out strong, exchanging goals rapidly and matching each other's energy, leaving the first half deadlocked at 18-18. The second half started off tight, with neither team able to break the silence for six full minutes — a testament to the intensity of the match. Qadsiya finally found the net, sparking a fresh wave of goals from both sides. But as the clock ticked down to the final second, Kuwait edged ahead by a single goal to seal the title. 'This win didn't come out of nowhere,' said Kuwait SC Chairman Khaled Al-Ghanim after the match. 'It's the result of strong teamwork that made our club a force on the local scene, consistently lifting trophies like today's Handball Federation Cup.' He credited the club's ongoing success to the combined efforts of its players, staff, and fans, describing the supporters as 'the strongest and most important part of our journey.' Al-Ghanim also thanked Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi for his support of Kuwaiti sports and for highlighting local achievements through media coverage. He also praised Qadsiya for their strong performance and sportsmanship. In the third-place playoff, Salmiya defeated Kazma 34-28 in a fast-paced game. Salmiya led narrowly at halftime (15-13), and while Kazma mounted a comeback early in the second half, unforced errors saw them fall behind again, allowing Salmiya to secure the bronze. As the curtain falls on the 2024–2025 handball season, national team manager Abdulaziz Al-Zaabi reflected on what he called one of the longest seasons in Kuwaiti handball history. 'The repeated pauses for international duties and other interruptions drained the competition's momentum,' he told KUNA. 'Players struggled with fitness and mental fatigue.' Al-Zaabi pointed out that the league format also contributed to the issue. 'The competition essentially ended after the first phase of the Premier League, which made the rest of the season feel like a formality. The federation has taken note and plans changes next season.' Looking ahead, he emphasized a renewed focus on developing local talent. 'Clubs are increasingly prioritizing youth players and giving them real playing time,' he said. 'This will give the national team more depth — especially with the upcoming Asian Championship, which Kuwait will host.' — KUNA
Arab Times
31-05-2025
- Sport
- Arab Times
Kuwait Club and Al-Arabi face off again in Amir Cup final
KUWAIT CITY, May 31: Kuwait Club and Al-Arabi have once again secured their places in the Amir Cup final, scheduled for June 16, marking their third final encounter this season. The two teams previously faced off in the Crown Prince Cup final, where Kuwait Club edged out Al-Arabi 1-0. They also met in the decisive match of the Zain Premier League's final round, with Kuwait Club winning 2-1, securing both titles and denying Al-Arabi the chance for a double. Kuwait Club aims to cap off the season by winning the Amir Cup, having already claimed the Super Cup. Meanwhile, Al-Arabi is chasing its first title of the season and looks to reclaim the Amir Cup, which has eluded them for five consecutive seasons. Kuwait Club President Khaled Al-Ghanim announced the signing of international goalkeeper Khaled Al-Rashidi on a three-season contract. Al-Rashidi, who previously played for Al-Arabi and Al-Salmiya, joins the team ahead of the new season. Following Kuwait Club's 1-0 victory over Al-Qadsiya in the tournament's semi-finals—achieved despite playing most of the match with ten men—Al-Ghanim praised the squad's determination and performance, stating, 'The players proved worthy of our trust.' Al-Arabi Club Chairman Abdulaziz Ashour rewarded each player with a 1,000 dinar bonus after their 1-0 semi-final victory over Al-Salmiya, thanks to a goal by Bahraini forward Kamil Al-Aswad. Ashour expressed gratitude for the players' efforts, noting the win secured their place in the final. He confirmed that the players are under long-term contracts, emphasizing the club's commitment to their continued service. Regarding the contract status of coach Nasser Al-Shatti, Ashour stated, 'The board will convene soon to decide the best course of action.'
Arab Times
21-05-2025
- Sport
- Arab Times
Kuwait Club outclasses Qadsia to seal treble
KUWAIT CITY, May 21: The Kuwait Club volleyball team capped off a dominant 2024-2025 season by securing a remarkable "triple" crown, winning the Federation Cup for the 19th time in its history at the Sheikh Saad Al-Abdullah Complex Hall, Kuwait Club defeated Al-Qadsia 3-1, while Kazma secured third place after overcoming Al-Shabab by the same score line. The "Dean" had already claimed the Super Cup and the Premier League title earlier in the season, confirming their superiority and consistency throughout the year. With three major titles under their belt, the "Whites" proved to be the undisputed champions of the season. Meanwhile, Kazma opened the season by winning the Federation Championship, and Sulaibikhat took top honors in the First Division Championship. Kuwait Club further extended its record as the most decorated team in domestic volleyball with 19 Federation Cup titles, followed by Qadsia (18), Kazma (14), Al-Arabi (7), and Al-Jahra (1). Kuwait Club President Khaled Al-Ghanim expressed his pride in the team's accomplishments, praising the players, coaching staff, and administrative team for their dedication. "This third title is a reward for the great efforts put in throughout the season," he said. "I also extend my appreciation to the Volleyball Federation for its excellent organization and support that helped elevate the competition." Al-Ghanim also commended the Volleyball Federation Board, led by Dr. Jaber Al-Marri, for its pivotal role in the season's success. Team captain Abdullah Jassim echoed the sentiments, expressing joy at clinching the Federation Cup: "This third title reflects the spirit of unity within our club—management, staff, and players all worked together to achieve our goals." Kuwait Volleyball Association President Dr. Jaber Al-Marri celebrated the successful conclusion of the season, emphasizing the high level of technical and organizational standards seen throughout. "This was a truly successful season in every sense—from the quality of play in all three major championships to the smooth organization by our committees." He extended congratulations to Kuwait Club for winning the General League and Federation Cup, to Kazma for the Federation Championship, and Sulaibikhat for its First Division title.
