Bahrain handball team secures semifinal spot at Youth Games

TDT | Manama

Email : hussainm@newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain’s youth handball team continued its impressive run at the 3rd Asian Youth Game with a comfortable 32–20 win against Jordan to book a place in the semifinals. The result, achieved in front of an energetic home crowd at Exhibition World Bahrain, confirmed Bahrain’s rise as one of the tournament’s standout teams and set up a match against neighbours Saudi Arabia.

The hosts asserted control early, leading 19–11 by halftime through fast-paced attacks and organized defense. In the second half, Bahrain maintained intensity, adding 13 more goals while limiting Jordan to just nine, closing the match 32–20 after 60 minutes of play.

Breakthroughs

Statistically, Bahrain outperformed across the board — converting 64% of their shots (33/52) compared to Jordan’s 46% (20/44). Their efficiency in key areas stood out, including a perfect 100% record on seven-metre throws (4/4) and fast breaks (3/3). Bahrain also made the most breakthroughs, scoring on 75% of such chances (9/12) while maintaining discipline with only one two-minute suspension.

Leading the attack, Qassim Sabt was in top form, netting 9 goals from 12 attempts, (combining power and precision) from close range and the penalty line. Ahmed Eid added seven goals (88%), while Ali Hasan and Mohammed Aadam contributed valuable strikes that kept Bahrain comfortably ahead.

This win follows Bahrain’s earlier victories in Group B — including wins against Hong Kong and the Maldives — cementing their unbeaten record ahead of their final group match against Saudi Arabia. The topof-the-table clash on Sunday will decide seeding for the semifinals, with both Gulf teams looking to carry their momentum into the medal rounds.