Kuwait city: Al Ahli and Qatar SC are poised to begin their campaign in the 40th Arab Club Championship for League and Cup Winners in men's handball, starting tomorrow, Friday, in the State of Kuwait. The tournament, which promises intense competition, will continue until September 22.

According to Qatar News Agency, the group-stage matches will see Al Ahli face Kazma of Kuwait in Group A, while Qatar SC will go against Al-Shabab of Syria in Group B. These initial matches are anticipated to establish the competitive atmosphere for the tournament's duration.

A total of 11 clubs are participating in this year's championship, divided into two groups. Group A consists of Al Ahli of Qatar, Kuwait SC, Naft Al-Basra of Iraq, Kazma of Kuwait, and Al-Taliya of Syria. Group B features Qatar SC, Al Ahli Bank of Egypt, Al Hashd of Iraq, Al Sulaibikhat of Kuwait, Al Shabab of Syria, and Al Nawaeir of Syria. The top four teams from each group will proceed to the quarterfinals, where the competition will intensify.

Kuwait SC, the defending champions, secured their title last year with a 32-23 win over Al-Salmiya in a tournament also held in Kuwait. Al Gharafa of Qatar claimed third place by defeating Al Qadsia of Kuwait 33-26 in the bronze medal match.

Historically, Qatari clubs have had notable successes in the championship. Al Rayyan won the 21st edition in Sharjah in 2000, and Al Gharafa emerged victorious in the 35th edition in Amman, Jordan, in 2019.