Bahrain’s King’s Cup returns

TDT | Manama

Email : hussainm@newsofbahrain.com

The next chapter in Bahrain’s premier domestic football competition begins this Saturday, February 1, as the 2025-26 King’s Cup enters its Round of 16. The Bahrain Football Association confirmed the schedule yesterday, moving the kingdom’s top clubs closer to the knockout stage.

Defending champions Al Khaldiya, who lifted their second King’s Cup last season under Ali Ashoor by edging past Sitra 3-2 in the April 2025 final, headline the draw. Founded in 2020, the men in yellow have quickly emerged as a dominant force in Bahraini football and now look to defend their crown under Tunisian coach Lassaad Chabbi. The club also claimed the 2021–22 title, winning a penalty shootout over East Riffa.

The action opens at Shaikh Ali bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Stadium, where Bahrain Club take on Al Hidd at 4:35 PM, followed by Al Shabab facing Al Malkiya at 7:40 PM. Winners will advance to the quarter-finals, joining sides that have progressed through the preliminary rounds.

On Monday, February 2, league holders Muharraq host Isa Town at Khalifa Sports City Stadium at 7 PM, while Manama meet Riffa at 7 PM at Shaikh Ali bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Stadium. Both matches promise high stakes as league form meets knockout intensity.

Tuesday, February 3, sees defending champions Al Khaldiya return to Khalifa Sports City Stadium to face Al Hala at 7 PM. At the same time, Al Ittifaq will take on Sitra at Shaikh Ali bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Stadium, completing the midweek fixtures.

The Round of 16 concludes on Thursday, February 5, with Al Budaiya against Al Ahli at Khalifa Sports City Stadium, and A’ali facing Al Najma at Shaikh Ali bin Mohammed Al Khalifa Stadium, both kicking off at 7 PM.

The draw now comes to life as clubs across Bahrain begin their pursuit of the kingdom’s crown jewel. With defending champions Al Khaldiya among the contenders, the stage is set for a fiercely competitive knockout round that will determine which sides advance in the 49th edition of the King’s Cup.