Sitra Still Chase First Gulf Club Win

TDT | Manama

Email : hussainm@newsofbahrain.com

Sitra’s quest for a first Gulf Club Champions League victory continues after a 2-1 defeat to Al Qadisiya in Kuwait last night at Mohammed Al Hamad Stadium. The Bahrainis showed fight but were undone by clinical finishing and set-piece precision from the Kuwaiti side. 

AlQadisiya’s Neeskens Kebano opened the scoring in the 29th minute, volleying home a rebound from Eid Al Rashidi’s floated free-kick after Sitra goalkeeper Youssef Habib initially saved the effort.

Al Qadisiya doubled their lead in the 66th minute. Another delivery from Al Rashidi found Kebano, who connected with a low header that rocketed into the roof of the net, completing his brace.

Sitra responded quickly, pulling one back in the 72nd minute. Vincent Emmanuel’s curling cross from the left found Othman Al Hajj, who towered over his marker and sent a bullet header into the bottom corner. Despite the goal, the Bahrainis could not find an equaliser, and Al Qadisiya held on for the win.

The result leaves Sitra with two points from four games, sitting bottom of Group C behind leaders Zakho (IRQ), Al Ain (UAE), and Al Qadisiya (KWT). The team remains in contention mathematically but will need strong performances in upcoming fixtures to keep their knockout hopes alive.

Sitra return home to face UAE’s Al Ain on February 10, 2026, before travelling to Iraq to meet Zakho on February 17. Coach Isa Al Saadoon’s squad, including Youssef Habib, Vincent Emmanuel, and Othman Al Hajj, will aim to capitalise on home advantage and push for the first win of the campaign.