Jamali to Lead Kuwaiti Referees for AFC Champions League 2 Final

Kuwait's prowess in football officiating has once again been recognized on the international stage, with the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) appointing a distinguished Kuwaiti refereeing crew to officiate the prestigious AFC Champions League 2 final. Leading this esteemed panel is Abdullah Jamali, who will serve as the main referee, supported by assistant referees Saud Al-Shammari and Ali Jarrah, and fourth official Abdulhadi Al-Enezi. The Video Assistant Referee (VAR) duties will be expertly handled by Ammar Ashkanani and Abdullah Al-Kandari.

This significant appointment underscores the high caliber of Kuwaiti referees and their adherence to the stringent standards required for officiating top-tier continental matches. The final, a highly anticipated clash between Saudi giants Al-Nassr and Japan's Gamba Osaka, is set to take place on May 16 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. The selection of a Kuwaiti crew for such a pivotal match is a source of immense pride for the nation's sporting community.

Sheikh Ahmad Al-Yousef, President of the Kuwait Football Association, extended his heartfelt congratulations to Jamali and his team, celebrating their well-deserved recognition. His praise also encompassed referee Saud Al-Samhan and assistant referee Talal Al-Shammari, who have been nominated for the AFC U-17 Asian Cup finals. From our vantage point at the Arab Times, this is more than just an officiating appointment; it is a testament to Kuwait's dedication to developing and promoting excellence in sports administration and officiating. While international coverage might focus on the participating clubs, for Kuwait, this is a moment to celebrate the skill, integrity, and professionalism of our own sports officials, showcasing their capability to manage high-stakes events on a global scale.

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congratulated Jamali and his team on their appointment to oversee the final.