3 Horse Title Race Sets the Tone as NPL Returns

TDT | Manama

Email: hussainm@newsofbahrain.com

The Nasser bin Hamad Premier League returns tomorrow after a lengthy pause due to the national team’s Arab Cup preparations and participation in Doha. With the last matchday on November 11, teams resume at a crucial stage, where every point counts and the table remains tightly contested.

The round kicks off with three matches tomorrow. At 4:15 pm, Al Hidd will face Al Khaldiya at Bahrain National Stadium. Al Hidd are seventh with 9 points and come off a 3-0 defeat to Muharraq, making a positive result vital. Al Khaldiya, second on 15 points, will look to build on their 2-1 win over Sitra, thanks to quickfire goals from Mehdi Abduljabbar and Gleison Moreira.

At the same time, Sitra meets A’ali at Khalifa Sports City Stadium. Sitra sits 6th with 8 points and aims to consolidate their place in the top half, while A’ali, 10th on 5 points, hopes to bounce back after a heavy 4-1 loss to Al Riffa.

Later today at 7 PM, Budaiya face defending champions Muharraq at Shaikh Ali Bin Mohammed Stadium. Budaiya have 9 points, while Muharraq are 3rd with 14, just 1 behind the leaders and with a game in hand. The champions arrive following an overseas training camp, including friendlies against Al Ain and Al Hilal, giving them valuable preparation.

Tomorrow, Bahrain SC (bottom with 3 points) will host Al Shabab (5 points) at Bahrain National Stadium at 4:15 PM, followed by Al Riffa (4th with 12 points) facing Al Ahli (5th with 11 points) at Khalifa Sports City Stadium at 7 PM. The round concludes Sunday with Al Najma (9th with 6 points) taking on league leaders Al Malkiya (15 points) at Khalifa Sports City at 7 PM.

In the race for individual honors, Juninho of Muharraq and Abdullah Al Hashash of Al Ahli top the scoring charts with 7 goals each. Bakay Walad of Al Hidd has 5, while Mohammed Al Faleh of Malkiya has 3.