Kuwait SC secured a dramatic 4-3 victory after extra time against Cambodia’s Preah Khan Reach Svay Rieng FC in a pulsating continental final at Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium in Kuwait City on Wednesday.
The match, played in front of a large home crowd, saw the Kuwaiti side recover from a two-goal deficit and later from a 3-2 setback before completing one of their most memorable comebacks in recent years.
The visitors made a rapid start, taking the lead in the third minute when Tiago Alves capitalised on a defensive error following a long throw-in. Just six minutes later, Ryo Fujii doubled Svay Rieng’s advantage with a powerful long-range strike that stunned the home supporters.
Kuwait SC struggled to settle in the opening stages but gradually improved before the break, although they were unable to reduce the deficit despite creating several chances.
After half-time, the hosts returned with greater intensity. A VAR review allowed Mehdi Barrahma’s close-range effort to stand in the 48th minute, reducing the gap and shifting momentum. Shortly after, Mohamed Marhoon equalised from close range after being set up inside the penalty area.
Despite sustained pressure from Kuwait SC, Svay Rieng regained the lead in extra time through Cristian dos Santos. However, the Kuwaiti side responded quickly when Amr Abd El Fattah struck from distance to level the score once again.
The decisive moment arrived in the 110th minute when Yousef Al-Sulaiman headed in a precise cross to complete the comeback and secure the AFC Challenge League title for the first time in the club’s history.
The result marks a significant achievement for Kuwait SC, who have now strengthened their standing in Asian club football with a fourth continental trophy overall. The victory also highlights the growing competitiveness of Gulf clubs in regional tournaments, as investment in domestic leagues continues to shape performances on the continental stage.
