Thu, 28 Oct, 2021
Kuwait: AFC Asian Cup finalists Kuwait have unveiled Tunisian Nabil Maaloul as their new head coach.
The former Tunisian international has agreed an 18-month deal after leaving Qatar Stars League outfit El Jaish, it was announced by the Kuwait Football Association on Sunday.
Maaloul replaces Brazilian Jorvan Vieira, who guided Iraq to success at the 2007 AFC Asian Cup, following Kuwait’s group stage exit at the recent Gulf Cup of Nations.
Kuwait, Asian Cup winners in 1980, have been drawn in Group A along with hosts Australia, Korea Republic and Oman for the January tournament, with Maaloul more than aware of the task that lies ahead for his team.
"Our group at the Asian Cup is very difficult, as we have Australia and Korea Republic who played at the FIFA World Cup, and there also is Oman who defeated Kuwait at the Gulf Cup"
"However, we want to put in a good performance at the Asian Cup, as we will not be there just to take part.
Maaloul's first match in charge will be Wednesday's friendly against fellow Asian Cup finalists Uzbekistan. They then face Iraq and United Arab Emirates before beginning their campaign in Australia.