Malkiya take on Al Hala in what is expected to be today’s main clash in the last-16 round of the prestigious King Cup Football Championship.
The clash of the strong contenders, who play in the Nasser bin Hamad Football Premier League, kicks off at 4.30pm at Khalifa Sports City Stadium.
The last time they played against each other, during the first leg of the Nasser bin Hamad Football Premier League, Malkiya won 2-1.
In other matches today, Bahrain Club face Al Shabab at 4.30pm and Muharraq take on Budaiya at 7.15pm, both at Bahrain National Stadium, while Busaiteen clash with Riffa at 7.15pm at Khalifa Sports City Stadium.
Al Shabab are the favourites against Bahrain Club, who play in the second division league. However, Bahrain Club, who are on a roll in their league, are expected to give their opponents a tough time.
Riffa, who are considered one of the toughest teams this season, are eyeing a smooth passage to the quarter-finals. However, they will be wary of Busaiteen’s giant-killing ability. The second division league team have proved time and again that they are no pushovers.
In another interesting encounter, last season’s King Cup runners-up Muharraq Club will take on strong challengers Budaiya. The teams will again clash in the Nasser bin Hamad Premier League after their King Cup match.