After a goal drought that stretched back to February, Anayo Iwuala has finally found his scoring boots again in spectacular fashion, netting a brilliant free kick to inspire Al Arabi win Al Salmiya 3-2 in a thrilling Kuwaiti Premier League clash on Sunday.

The Super Eagles winger delivered a moment of magic at the Jaber Al-Ahmad International Stadium, bagging his eighth league goal of the season and helping Al Arabi win Al Salmiya in a nail-biting five-goal encounter, Footballrover reports.

Anayo Iwuala’s free kick lights up the first half

Al Arabi wasted no time asserting dominance, with Hamza Khabba firing them ahead barely eight minutes into the match.

Anayo Iwuala doubled the lead in the 37th minute with a stunning free kick that left the goalkeeper helpless.

The momentum stayed with the visitors as Khabba completed his brace on the stroke of halftime, giving Al Arabi a comfortable 3-0 cushion.

Anayo also had a hand in the goal, his well taken corner kick was directed at Khabba, who was completely unmarked and he heads his effort into the empty net.

Al Arabi win Al Salmiya despite late comeback attempt

The second half, however, was a different story. Tunisian forward Imad Al-Lawati sparked a fightback for Al Salmiya, converting a penalty in the 80th minute.

Six minutes later, he scored again to make it 2-3, putting Al Arabi’s nerves to the test.

Despite the late pressure, Iwuala and his teammates held firm to seal the crucial win.

With the victory, Al Arabi snatched all three points from Al Salmiya and move up to second on the league table with 49 points from 20 matches—just two points behind leaders Al Kuwait.

After their recent AFC Challenge League Playoff loss to Arkadag, this bounce-back win brings fresh momentum.

Anayo Iwuala will now aim to maintain this form when Al Arabi face Al-Fahaheel next in the Crown Prince Cup.

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Last Updated on April 21, 2025 7:50 am by Sir Kris